When I booked this latest international trip, two versions of me showed up immediately. One was thrilled – ready for adventure, new cities, and whatever chaos travel throws my way. The other was already spiraling about outfits, muttering to myself, “Great. Now I have to try to look halfway cute in public for a week straight.”
Up until now, most of my trips have involved hiking, rainstorms, and enough layers to survive arctic conditions. But London, Paris, and Rome? That’s a different kind of trip – the kind where you at least attempt to look like you have your life together. And honestly, the only reason this itinerary even happened is because the dates lined up perfectly with my airline mile redemptions. Once you’ve flown international business class, going back to economy on a 12‑hour flight feels like a punishment.
Getting There: A Surprisingly Chill Departure Day
I was scheduled to meet my group in London on Sunday afternoon, so I booked my flight for Saturday. About a month before departure, the airline sent me a “helpful” little update: my flight now left at 9:30 PM. Annoying? Yes. But also… kind of amazing. Having the entire day free before an international flight is a luxury. No frantic early‑morning airport dash. No stress. Just vibes.
I arrived at DFW early, expecting long TSA lines because of the government shutdown at the time, but everything was surprisingly normal. I breezed through PreCheck, made my way to the lounge, grabbed a champagne (vacation mode officially activated), and waited to board.
The flight itself was uneventful – which is exactly what you want when you’re hurtling across the Atlantic in a metal tube. I slept as well as one can on a plane, and landed in London feeling… not refreshed, but functional.
Since I booked my own flights, I was responsible for getting myself to the first hotel. If I’d booked through the travel company, they would’ve handled it, but honestly? I prefer being in control of my time. And London is incredibly easy to navigate.
I stopped by the arrivals lounge – made it with about 30 minutes to spare – washed my face, brushed my teeth, and felt like a new human. Then I hopped on the Heathrow Express and headed toward Paddington Station.
Navigating London: A Throwback to My First Soloish Trip
My first time in London was during my Scotland solo-ish adventure, and back then the Rome2Rio app was my lifeline. This time… not so much. It wasn’t nearly as detailed as I remembered. I found myself staring at posted signs longer than I’d like to admit. Eventually I switched to Google Maps’ public transit option, which worked flawlessly for the rest of the trip.
From Paddington, I made my way to Notting Hill Gate. My hotel was just a block and a half from the station – wide sidewalks, super walkable, and conveniently located next to an M&S, a Boots, and a McDonald’s. A traveler’s trifecta.
While checking in, I spotted a guy with a lanyard who I assumed was our tour guide. (Spoiler: I was right.) He was chatting with another traveler, so I didn’t interrupt. But then I heard him say “Abbey Road,” and I immediately inserted myself into the conversation because that was my next stop.
Abbey Road: The Beatles, A Sharpie, and Nearly Getting Hit by Cars
I dropped my suitcase in my room, met up with two other travelers who also wanted to go, and navigated us through the Tube to the famous Abbey Road Studios and zebra crossing.
If you’re like me, the first thing you think of is The Beatles. (Thanks, Dad.)
We took plenty of photos – and watched plenty of people nearly get hit by cars because they forgot it’s still an active street. We saw the studio from the sidewalk (it’s gated, for obvious reasons) and browsed the gift shop.
On the way back, I noticed a sign on a brick retaining wall that said something like “Please don’t write on this wall – keep it on our wall.” Which meant… we were allowed to write on the studios wall? And guess who always has a Sharpie in her purse for absolutely no reason? Me.
So we each signed the wall. I even wrote my dad’s name since he couldn’t be there. Honestly, I should frame that photo for his birthday or something.
A Vintage Silk Scarf and the First Group Dinner
Just before reaching the hotel, I spotted a charity shop right next door. I’d been hoping to thrift on this trip, and only then realized I should’ve been searching “charity shops” instead of “thrift stores.” Rookie mistake.
Inside, I found exactly what I’d been hoping for: a beautiful silk scarf for under $20. After looking up the markings, I learned it was a late‑70s/early‑80s Parisian silk scarf – technically vintage. A perfect first‑day find.
I changed for dinner, met the group in the lobby for a little happy‑hour meet‑and‑greet, and we walked to a nearby restaurant. I don’t remember the name, but the fish and chips were incredible. Dessert too. After a long travel day, it was perfect.
Side note: the hotel shower was a glass box in the middle of the room. Good thing I wasn’t sharing.
Day Two: London Highlights Tour + Kensington Palace + Buckingham Palace
The next morning, we hopped on a bus and met our local guide, Richard. We drove by Kensington Palace – the birthplace of Queen Victoria and the longtime home of Princess Diana, now home to the Prince and Princess of Wales. The palace sits on the edge of Kensington Gardens, and even from the outside, it’s beautiful.
We passed Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, and then walked from Westminster Abbey to Buckingham Palace to catch the end of the Changing of the Guard. I’d seen the full ceremony during a long layover on my Scotland trip, so this time I focused on the little things – like a police officer scolding a cyclist who broke several rules of the road. Peak London.
Windsor Castle: A Fortress, A Royal Residence, and the King Was There!
Next up was an optional excursion to Windsor Castle, about 23 miles from central London. I grabbed a sandwich to eat on the bus so I’d have more time at the castle.
Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, originally built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century. It has served as a royal residence for nearly 1,000 years and is still an official home of the British monarch.
Seeing it in person was surreal. The first part of the tour was guided, then we explored on our own. No photos allowed inside, unfortunately, but I got to see St. George’s Chapel – the final resting place of Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Philip, and many other royals. It’s also where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were married.
And the King was there that day. No sightings, but still cool to think about.
The weather was what I imagine is classic British weather: rain, sun, rain, sun.
After returning to the hotel, we had a free evening. I walked to Portobello Market, browsed the shops (many were closing for the night), and stumbled into a resale shop with runway pieces priced at £14,000. Amazing to look at, far out of my budget.
Dinner was McDonald’s – sometimes that’s exactly what you need.
Day Three: Tower of London, Crown Jewels, Afternoon Tea, and Covent Garden
We started with an optional excursion to the Tower of London. Built by William the Conqueror in 1078, it has served as a fortress, royal residence, prison, armory, and treasury. Our local guide walked us through centuries of history, pointing out where different sections were added over time.
I saw the Crown Jewels – displayed behind moving walkways so no one can block the view. Genius. I went down both sides once.
I wandered the grounds afterward and found a great view of Tower Bridge (the one people mistakenly call London Bridge).
After the Tower, we had just under two hours of free time before afternoon tea. I had originally planned to squeeze in a museum, but exhaustion won. I took the Tube back with a small group and put my feet up for an hour.
Afternoon tea at Brown’s was incredible – basically a full meal. I expected to leave hungry. I did not.
We walked around Covent Garden afterward, just long enough to get a feel for the area. It’s definitely on my list for a future trip.
Back at the hotel, I tried to get a massage at the place across the street, but they were fully booked. Tragic.
I ended the night packing and washing my hair, preparing for our next stop: Paris.
Reflections on London
I really like London. There is so much to do and see – more than I could ever fit into two days, or even a week. It’s easy to navigate, incredibly walkable, and full of history around every corner. London is absolutely on my “go back” list.
FAQ
Is London a good destination for solo travelers? Yes – London is one of the easiest major cities in the world for solo travel. The Tube is simple to navigate, most neighborhoods are walkable, and there’s an endless list of museums, markets, and landmarks to explore independently.
How do you get from Heathrow Airport to central London? The Heathrow Express is the fastest option, taking about 15 minutes to reach Paddington Station. The Tube’s Piccadilly Line is a cheaper alternative, and rideshares are available but slower during peak traffic.
Is Windsor Castle worth visiting? Absolutely. Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, home to centuries of royal history, St. George’s Chapel, and stunning architecture. It’s an easy day trip from London.
What’s the difference between Tower Bridge and London Bridge? Tower Bridge is the iconic blue‑and‑white drawbridge near the Tower of London. London Bridge is a more modern, simpler bridge located further west. Many visitors mix them up.
Is afternoon tea in London expensive? Prices vary widely, but classic hotel teas like Brown’s are typically a splurge – though the experience and food quality make it worth it.
What are charity shops in London? Charity shops are similar to thrift stores, but proceeds support specific charities. They’re great for finding unique, vintage, or designer pieces at affordable prices.
More photos! Click to view full size.
Solo-ish Journeys 
Leave a comment