The markets of London are like nothing I have ever encountered before. Within one square mile, there are more cultures represented than there are within 50 miles of my home town. From Egyptian jewelry, to Indian fashion, to Palestinian pottery, to Jamaican cuisine, one can find almost every sector of the world showcased in their own unique ways.
While it is a tight competition, my favorite market was between Camden and Borough Market. Every time I thought the markets had no more to see, there would be another row of vendors with new and interesting items to explore. After every visit I was leaving with a fuller belly and emptier bank account, but every penny was worth it. These were the markets where I found all of my favorite jewelry and souvenirs (including the clock watch I have been wanting forever). I also had a variety of food: Indian, Thai, Jamaican, and whatever one would consider the pork sandwich place (is it British food??).
While Borough and Camden were my favorite markets, they are not where my favorite item was, nor were they where I spent the most time. The market I got my favorite item in was Covent Gardens Market. My lychee and rose tea from Wittard’s Tea House (my beloved) was no joke my purchase of the entire trip. Seven dials was the place I visited the most because of its proximity to the hotel (and its fireeee cacio y pepe).
However, it is important to point out that my most favorite meal was not in a market, but at Dishoom. Before this trip I had no access to good authentic Indian food. This restaurant was probably my biggest cultural branch out. I went in feeling pretty indifferent to Indian food. Boy was I in for a surprise. By the end of the meal, I was about to start licking my plate and my fork was nearly on fire from the speed I was trying to get the ruby chicken in my mouth.
Of all the things London has given me, authentic access to new cultures is probably what I am leaving the most grateful for.
Theatre in London U of A 