The Lone Adventurer

I might have mentioned this before, but I do love traveling by myself.  Most likely this is due to the fact that I am sporadic and not very patient and I just enjoy wandering aimlessly at a very quick pace until I find something interesting.  This has always been great for me because I tend to stumble across the most fascinating things, but when traveling with others, this method may seem unbearable to keep up with. 

For example, a few days ago, I wandered around Westminster Abbey, all the way to Trafalgar Square, up into the theatre district.  I knew I had been walking awhile and that I wanted something to eat.  I wanted a ½ pint of something and some fish and chips.  I think I passed over 20 pubs, reading the outside menus trying to find one that suited me and I really just couldn’t decide.  Finally, on a whim I ducked into a little pub that was painted red.  It was called The Globe Pub.  It was a perfect spot for me, with perfect prices and proportions.  I had my London Pride, while I scribbled in my journal and read my book.  All was peaceful until a group of three hipster Americans walked in and sat at a table near me and gawked on about godknowswhat.  I can see why the Brits may not like us too much.  But anyways, I can see how anyone traveling with me could get easily frustrated as I passed up probably a dozen decent pubs just to find the one that perfectly suited me on a whim.   

Again today, I found myself wandering alone. I decided to go to Portobello Market in search for a teapot.  It amazed me how even though it was freezing and raining outside, thousands of people still crowded the streets through these markets.  Above all though, the smell of this place was absolutely to die for.  The amount of hot food being cooked on every inch along the street was impeccable.  As I grew colder, the idea of warm food kept sounded better and better, but I simply could not decide on a venue.  Bread and soup? Paella? Vegetarian Falafel? How could I choose?  Well, instead I settled on getting a hot chocolate from this chipper woman and settling into a warehouse where live music was playing.  For still being so cold, this warehouse had a cozy vibe.  Sofas, chairs and tables were set up, along with a bar for anyone who wanted a drink.  Also, the walls and stage were painted with murals and festive large round chandeliers hung from the ceiling.  Here in this inviting environment, I was able to sit, sip my hot chocolate and write in my journal while listening to decently handsome gentlemen play his guitar.  

What a solid afternoon.  It was here, I had the strange idea of starting a traveling blog for the poor, quirky college girl, where I give tips on how to get the most out of traveling without breaking the bank and stressing yourself out. Then I realized that I don’t have time for that and I really don’t have that much advice, so instead I’ve decided to use this as an outlet for my travel tips as they come to mind.

Starting now:

No. 1 AVOID THE FAMILIAR. 

This is my number one tip, but it should more or less be a rule.  Stay away from those places you could easily go to back home.  Don’t go into Starbucks just because you are familiar with your grande skinny white mocha on ice.  Try the café down the street instead.  This way, not only are you broadening your horizons, but also you may meet someone interesting or find your new favourite drink.  Either way it’s better because are supporting a local business.  The same should go for clothing shops.  Yes, I am aware that Forever 21 is probably even more amazing in London because it’s four stories high, but it’s still Forever 21: loud and overwhelming.  There are hundreds of boutiques in the city where you can find something unique that your friends back home won’t have, "just in a different colour."  

No. 2 WANDER AIMLESSLY/ GET LOST

            By doing this, I have accidently found Abbey Road, the bookstore from the movie Notting Hill, and the Sherlock Holmes Pub.  I found all of these by simply taking one turn off the beaten path.  This does NOT mean wander down sketchy looking alleys thinking One Direction will magically appear.  NOR does it mean get lost and leave a map at home.  It just means see where the SAFE road takes you.  You may find a cute little café or park, just make sure to always have an exit strategy.  Look at street signs, and carry a map, just in case.  And yes, carry a map; don’t rely on your phone to get you everywhere.  You may look like a tourist at times, but that piece of paper is much more reliable than the city’s WiFi connections.

Those were the only two things I really came up with for the day, but hopefully in later posts I will be able to add to my super awesome travel tips.  Maybe I will include things that I have learned while here.  Already, that list has been steadily growing. 

Until next time,

Cheers,

Janelle