About
A 12 year love affair with..a city
Growing up, I was only vaguely aware of the United Kingdom. I knew what we learned in history class and who Tony Blair was. I remembered when Princess Diana died, watched the Spice World VHS 15x and had heard of mince pie (but didn’t actually know what it was. Spoiler alert: it's a dessert). And that was pretty much it.
Later in college, when the option arose to study abroad, I made the classic pros and cons list:
Pros: London was close to the US so people would come visit me and
it was close to other countries so I could go visit other people
Cons: rainy, expensive, bad food!
Oh how wrong I was!
Almost immediately, I noticed London was different. Walking down the street felt like going back in time. How could it be that there was 2000 years of history crammed into this buzzing, modern city?
I loved the mishmash of architectural styles, and even beyond that - the people, neighborhoods and lifestyles. The accessibility of urban and fine art, theater, music and green spaces was unmatched.
Truly a global melting pot, I saw how London’s diversity strengthened the city. It also meant you could taste the absolute best of literally any nation's cuisine in your neighborhood. British humor was on display in the comedy clubs and embodied by the people I met. Soccer games at the pub were some of the best nights, high tea some of the best long afternoons. There were hidden gems tucked around every corner and down every side street. It rained, yes, but not too much.
During those months I traversed the city daily (without google maps!), learning who, how and what London really was.
Today, I've traveled to 35 countries (and counting) but London still has my heart.
I split my time between Washington D.C. and Venice Beach but have lived in London twice and travel there annually. When I’m away, I stay connected to the city’s energy by planning trips for others: solo travelers, couples, groups and families.
Over a decade later, it gives me pure joy to help others have their own, unique experience uncovering this wonderful city.
That’s the reason I started Jilly London.