Discovering London's Delights A Skinny Asian Girl's Guide

London, the bustling capital of the United Kingdom, is a city that offers a plethora of delights waiting to be discovered. In this guide, specifically tailored for a skinny Asian girl like me, I will take you on a journey through eight different aspects of London that are sure to captivate and enthrall. From fashion to food and everything in between, let's embark on this exciting adventure!

Fashion and Shopping

London is a hub for fashion enthusiasts, with a wide range of high-end boutiques and street markets to explore. For an affordable shopping experience, head over to Oxford Street, the epitome of high street fashion. Here, you can browse through numerous stores, including popular brands like Topshop, Zara, and H&M. The average price range for clothing items in these stores is around ￡20-￡50.

If you're looking for unique and vintage pieces, Brick Lane is the place to be. This vibrant area is home to quirky thrift shops and market stalls, where you can find one-of-a-kind fashion gems. The prices here vary, but you can score great deals starting from ￡10.

For a taste of luxury, visit Knightsbridge and explore the world-renowned department store, Harrods. With its opulent ambiance and an array of designer brands, you can indulge in a shopping spree fit for a princess. Keep in mind that prices in Harrods can be steep, with designer items ranging from ￡100 to several thousand pounds.

With London being a melting pot of cultures, it's also worth exploring the Asian fashion scene. Head to Chinatown in Soho, where you'll find a multitude of shops offering trendy Asian clothing and accessories at affordable prices.

Culture and Art

London is rich in culture and home to world-class art galleries and museums. The British Museum, located in Bloomsbury, is a treasure trove of historical artifacts from all corners of the world. The best part? Admission is free! Spend hours exploring ancient Egyptian mummies, Greek sculptures, and other fascinating exhibits.

If contemporary art is more your style, visit the Tate Modern, situated on the banks of the River Thames. This iconic gallery showcases modern masterpieces by renowned artists such as Picasso and Warhol. Tickets for special exhibitions usually range from ￡10-￡20.

For theater lovers, the West End is a must-visit. Catch a world-class musical or play in one of the historic theaters along Shaftesbury Avenue. From the enchanting "The Phantom of the Opera" to the heartwarming "Les Misérables," there's something for everyone. Ticket prices vary, but you can find affordable options starting from ￡20.

Don't miss out on the vibrant street art scene in East London's Shoreditch. Take a stroll through the neighborhood and admire the colorful murals and graffiti that adorn its walls. It's a free and visually stimulating cultural experience.

Food and Dining

London is a food lover's paradise, offering a diverse range of culinary delights from all over the world. Indulge in authentic Asian cuisine at Borough Market, where you can sample mouthwatering dishes from Thai, Japanese, Chinese, and Indian vendors. Prices for a meal can range from ￡5 for street food to ￡15 for a sit-down meal.

If you're craving the taste of home, head to Chinatown where you'll find numerous restaurants serving delicious Asian dishes. From dim sum to hot pot, you'll be spoilt for choice. The price range here is typically ￡10-￡20 per person.

For a unique dining experience, try an afternoon tea at one of London's finest establishments. The Ritz, Claridge's, and The Savoy are renowned for their exquisite offerings. Prices can range from ￡40-￡80 per person, but the indulgence is worth every penny.

Finally, don't forget to sample traditional British cuisine. Treat yourself to fish and chips, a Sunday roast, or a hearty pie at a local pub. You can enjoy a filling meal for around ￡10-￡15.

Nature and Parks

Despite being a bustling metropolis, London is home to many beautiful parks and green spaces. Regent's Park, located in the heart of the city, offers a peaceful oasis with stunning gardens and the famous ZSL London Zoo. Entrance to the park is free, while zoo tickets range from ￡20-￡30.

Hyde Park, one of the largest parks in London, is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. Rent a paddleboat on the Serpentine Lake or simply relax and enjoy the serene surroundings. It's a free and delightful escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

If you're feeling more adventurous, head to Richmond Park, home to herds of deer and beautiful woodland areas. Explore the park's trails on foot or rent a bicycle. Entrance to the park is free, but bike rentals start from around ￡8 per hour.

For a panoramic view of London's skyline, visit Greenwich Park and climb up to the Royal Observatory. Enjoy the stunning vista and learn about the history of timekeeping. The entrance fee is ￡7 for adults and ￡3.50 for children.

Entertainment and Nightlife

When the sun goes down, London comes alive with its vibrant entertainment and nightlife scene. Start your evening with a visit to Covent Garden, where you can enjoy street performances, browse through quirky shops, and dine in one of the numerous restaurants. Prices for a meal start from around ￡15.

For a taste of the high life, head to Mayfair, renowned for its exclusive clubs and bars. Experience the glitz and glamour as you dance the night away. Entry fees and drink prices vary depending on the venue.

If you're looking for alternative and underground entertainment, the Shoreditch and Camden areas are your best bet. Explore the unique bars, music venues, and clubs that cater to varied tastes, from indie rock to electronic music. Cover charges and drink prices in these areas range from ￡5-￡15.

Don't miss out on the vibrant LGBTQ+ scene in Soho. The area is home to numerous LGBTQ+ bars and clubs where you can dance, socialize, and celebrate diversity. Entry fees and drink prices vary, but the atmosphere is always welcoming and inclusive.

Historical Landmarks

London is steeped in history, and no visit is complete without exploring its iconic landmarks. Start with the Tower of London, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its medieval architecture, the Crown Jewels, and learn about the darker side of British history. Tickets start from ￡27 for adults and ￡13.50 for children.

Another must-visit landmark is Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch. Witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony and marvel at the grandeur of the palace. Admission to the palace's State Rooms costs ￡26.50 for adults and ￡14.50 for children.

For a picturesque view of the city, take a trip on the London Eye. This iconic Ferris wheel offers breathtaking panoramic views of the skyline. Tickets start from ￡27 for adults and ￡22 for children.

Explore the rich history of the British Museum once again, this time focusing on the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles. These ancient artifacts are a testament to humanity's cultural heritage. Entrance to the museum is free, but donations are appreciated.

Transportation

Getting around London is a breeze with its extensive public transportation system. The London Underground, also known as the Tube, is the most efficient way to navigate the city. Prices for a single journey start from ￡2.40 with an Oyster card.

Double-decker buses are a quintessential part of London's charm. Hop on one of these iconic red buses and enjoy the scenic routes while getting to your destination. A single bus journey costs ￡1.50 with an Oyster card.

If you prefer a more eco-friendly option, rent a Santander Cycle, also known as Boris Bikes, and explore the city on two wheels. The price for a 24-hour access period is ￡2, with the first 30 minutes of each journey being free.

If you're traveling in a group or prefer a more convenient mode of transport, consider using Uber or other ride-hailing apps available in London. Prices vary depending on the distance and demand.

Accommodation

London offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget. If you're looking for a budget-friendly stay, consider booking a hostel in areas like King's Cross or Camden. Prices for a bed in a dormitory range from ￡15-￡25 per night.

If you prefer more comfort and privacy, there are plenty of mid-range hotels available throughout the city. Prices for a double room in a three-star hotel average around ￡80-￡120 per night.

For a luxurious stay, indulge in one of London's iconic five-star hotels. The posh establishments in Mayfair and Knightsbridge offer exquisite rooms and impeccable service. Prices for a double room start from ￡300 per night.

Alternatively, consider booking an Airbnb to experience London like a local. From cosy apartments to stylish townhouses, there are plenty of options to choose from. Prices vary depending on the location and amenities provided.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is London safe for solo female travelers?

London is generally considered safe for solo female travelers. However, as with any city, it is important to take basic precautions such as being aware of your surroundings and avoiding isolated areas at night.

2. What is the best time to visit London?

London is a year-round destination, but the months of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

3. Are there any vegetarian or vegan food options in London?

Absolutely! London has a thriving vegetarian and vegan food scene, with numerous restaurants and cafes catering to these dietary preferences.

4. Can I use contactless payment methods in London?

Yes, contactless payment methods such as credit cards and mobile wallets are widely accepted in London's public transportation and many shops and restaurants.