The Big Ben is an iconic landmark in London and the clockface is made of hundreds of individual pieces of glass.
Stepping into London for the first time is almost like a fantasy. You hear about the rich history of a vast empire, the settings in the fantastical world of Harry Potter, and the home of the Royal Family. As a first-time tourist, it is a lot to take in.
Landing in London was already an exciting feat since you fly over with a panoramic view of the city including the London Bridge, the Thames River and the London Eye Ferris Wheel. These views already frame your perspective of the city as a modern, yet also historically charming, city. When we landed in London Heathrow Airport, we got an even better view of London from the ground, complete with double decker buses, black taxis, and the infamous “tube” or underground transport that immerse you in the city’s hustle and bustle.
As a first-time tourist, the best use of my first day was to visit the icons of the city including Big Ben, the London Bridge, and the museums and galleries. The weather was, as expected, cloudy, and even with sunlight peeking through the clouds, it was still overcast skies. However, this was also the best time for photography. If you’re an avid photographer like me, the overcast skies really helped keep the photos looking fresh and not overexposed.
If you’re into people watching, the Thames River Walk offers the best places to immerse in large crowds.
Shortly after landing, I made a stop to try the local’s favorite: fish and chips. Essentially featuring a crispy, fried-to-perfection piece of cod and a generous serving of fries. Something so simple yet delicious has been a staple of English cuisine for years. I particularly enjoyed the tartar sauce with this classic dish since it was freshly made with finely chopped dill, onions, and capers. This is something unique, rather than the sauce coming from a bottle.
Taking the Tube in London sped up my commute drastically as the above-ground transport was oftentimes chaotic and inefficient.
London’s cultural richness is evident in its abundance of museums and galleries. Although I’m not an avid museum goer, I certainly enjoy a walk through the air-conditioned rooms when it is steaming outside. The British Museum is a must-visit for first-time tourists. It houses treasures from around the world, including the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies. I found it very easy to get lost in the history of the artifacts and spend an entire morning or afternoon on the premises. For those who are less into history and more into art, the Tate Modern and National Gallery show masterpieces from Monet, Picasso and Van Gogh.
