West London is the main area where tourists flock to during their vacation. While there are many fascinating attractions in these neighborhoods, it’s definitely worth your time to explore some areas nearby that are just as culturally rich, but less crowded.
Marylebone: If I wasn’t in class or at my flat, you would find me in Marylebone. Just a few blocks from the popular Oxford Street, Marybelone is a calm alternative to the main shopping blocks. My fashion internship was in this area and in order to get to work every day, I actually had to walk by Madonna’s flat (two, if you count the flat next door that she converted into a gym). It was always amusing to see paparazzi pop out of the bushes and then growl in disappointment when they realized you weren’t Madge.
Madonna aside, Marylebone is a trendy place to find less commercial clothes. A lot of boutique owners set up shop here because the clientele is a bit more upscale. Even as a poor student living abroad, I fell in love with the many coffee shops and smoothie bars that fit within my budget. Also in Marylebone is Baker Street, home of the Sherlock Holmes Museum, which is equally stimulating for the young and the young at heart.
Photo via London Fractions
Soho: It’s hard to hate on the Soho’s of the world, and London is no exception. Not only is Soho a hub of eclectic music shops and bars, but also it attracts a cultural mix of people and nationalities to the area. Another perk about Soho is how close it is to other neighborhoods in West London. Oxford Circus (close to Top Shop for fashion lovers) and Covent Garden (theater junkies) are only a short walk away.
One of the courses I took while studying in London was a “Pop Culture” class, which basically consisted of outdoor field trips and walks all over London. When we made it to Soho, we went to Radha Krishna Temple where we learned more about the faith while meditating on fluffy pillows on the floor. This is one activity I highly recommend if you find yourself in Soho with nothing to do.
Typical Soho backstreet in London (Courtesy: Wikipedia)
Notting Hill: It’s hard to say anything bad about this quiet, serene neighborhood. If you head here on the weekend, get ready for the crowds. Portobello Market is a popular place on Saturdays, especially if you are an avid art or antique lover. Heading to the market is one way to feel a part of the local London community. I always enjoyed people watching during these leisurely strolls. On a weekday, the streets are much less crowded and serve as the perfect location for a day of reading and window-shopping. Not far is Hyde Park, one of London’s well-kept and gorgeous public parks.
A view of the Portobello Market (Courtesy: Wikipedia)
(Original article from Liberty Travel, where Megan wrote a four-part series about London neighborhoods)
Megan Eileen McDonough is writer, blogger and social media specialist based in New York City. She also runs Bohemian Trails, a lifestyle blog designed for the savvy and stylish traveler. Bohemian Trails aims to feature must-see places around the world, covering everything from revamped neighborhoods and vibrant street art to innovative tech hubs and everything in between. Her cultural escapades have taken her to Latin America, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
Megan is also a freelance writer and social media specialist based in New York City. She contributes to various online and print publications in the travel and fashion industries and is an international correspondent for both Jetsetter and Northstar Travel Media.
