So Many Reasons to Love London
“When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life.”
~Samuel Johnson
I first visited London when I was 21 years-old. I was on a study abroad program while an undergraduate at Hollins College (now Hollins University)—a four-year, private women’s college in Roanoke, Virginia. To this day, I believe that my time living and studying abroad had more of a positive impact on my life goals and world view than almost any other part of my education. As students, we registered for classes such as music, political science, British history, art, and literature. Studying in London was such an enriching experience: Reading Oscar Wilde’s play, The Importance of Being Earnest…and then, getting to watch Dame Maggie Smith as Lady Bracknell on stage. All I can say is, wow! Or, studying a piece of music and going to the symphony to hear it. Everything we learned was applied in context. We were also encouraged to travel—whether it was within England or on the continent. And, all students were assigned a family to live with or a homestay in London during the semester. I was extremely fortunate to be placed with the Sharp family, especially since they were (and still are) so welcoming, warm, and generous. My time with them was the “icing on the cake” of my semester abroad. And, happily, we’re still in touch today!
Since that wonderful college semester years ago, I’ve been to London a number of times….and, I never get tired of it. Whether it’s visiting with special friends, world-class museums, trendy restaurants, beautiful gardens, or just a late night walk to Trafalgar Square, I LOVE the energy of this amazing city! There’s always something to see, enjoy, or learn. I plan to write a couple of posts on our recent visit to London, but until then, here’s a little preview! 🙂
Categories: Art, music, Photography, Travel
Amazing photos Tonya! I’m just sad we missed meeting again!!!
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I know! We had actually started making plans in January for a visit in March, but ended up canceling. Then, last minute, we changed our minds about going. I wanted to give more notice than just a couple of weeks. I hope we can meet up before too long! 😊
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Fingers crossed!!!! Xxxx
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😊 xoxo
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How utterly and incredibly delightful, Tonya! I was grinning ear to ear looking at these fantastic photos! (And you and Farm Guy are so adorable together, bless you both)! Cher xo
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That’s really sweet, Cher! Thanks so much. 😊
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I mean it whole-heartedly! 💜💜
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😊💛
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I loved seeing your beautiful photos. They brought back fond memories of our trip to London with you guys. I agree … there is so much to love about London. ❤
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Thanks, Donna. It was a fun trip! 🙂
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I love London! Such a fabulous city 💕✨
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I agree! 🙂
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I love the pictures of London. I would love to visit someday. Would love to have tea with you and Janine somewhere too. I don’t know if that will ever happen. 🙂 Blessings to you and yours this Easter season. May God grant you and yours peace and love. 🙂
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Thank you. So glad you enjoyed the post!
Happy Easter to you and your family! 🙂
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What a wonderful post! You captured the beauty of the city, there is so much to fall in love with.
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Thank you so much. I’m delighted you enjoyed it! London holds a special place in my heart.
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I can feel your excitement and awe of London through your words and photos! What a blessed life you lead! xoxo
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London always feels familiar–but also new to me whenever I visit. I was so fortunate to get to spend a college semester there. And, I’m grateful for every return trip. Thank you, Kathryn. 😊💛 xoxo
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Great photo collage. I’d love to get to London one day. It’s been the backdrop for so many of the books I’ve read throughout my life. It would be great to walk through the historical sections, and see the more modern era sights too.
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Thanks very much. It was a lot of fun putting the collage together. You would enjoy London! One of the wonderful things about the city is its history and tradition combined with its vibrancy and diversity. 🙂
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What beautiful pics — I can’t wait to visit London and experience some of this for myself. I’ve nominated you for the Blogger Recognition award. You can find the details here: https://riddlefromthemiddle.com/2017/04/13/rftm-sunshine-on-an-april-morning/
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You would love London. 🙂
Congratulations on receiving the Blogger Recognition Award, Laura! And, a kind thank you for the nomination. 🙂
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So much luffly stuff all in one place! Love the hat 🙂
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It’s truly wonderful! Thank you. I had a ball trying on hats! I may have as many hats as scarves. 😉
Have a lovely weekend!
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Great pictures – London looks wonderful.
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Thank you, Sheryl. 😊
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Gorgeous photos Tonya. You look like you are having a wonderful time 🙂
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Thank you so much, Judy. I really enjoy London. I think it always reminds me of my time there as a student. It’s a special place. 🙂
Happy Easter!
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Happy Easter to you all too xxx
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Thank you! xo
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London is fun
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I haven’t been since I was 23 (erm, almost 20 years), but I’ll be traveling with my niece in June for her graduation
present. Now you have me really excited!
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Oh good!! You may be interested in Kew Gardens, Kensington Palace (Diana’s Fashion Story Exhibit), Sky Garden (fantastic views of London) restaurants–Darwin’s Brassiere and Fenchurch (must have reservation), National Portrait Gallery–look for cafe on top floor. It’s a great place for tea or lunch…wonderful views of city. The British Library (Magna Carta, handwritten letters from King Henry VIII to Anne Boleyn), Fortnum & Mason (4 levels of teas, biscuits, cakes, restaurants, ice cream shop, beautiful hats/ facinators), and Tartufi & Friends–a fabulous Italian restaurant that specializes in handmade pastas and truffles. I would actually eat a very late lunch or early dinner there instead of doing a pre-theatre dinner somewhere. They’re open 10-9. That way you’re not stressed about getting to the theatre on time. And, it’s much better. It’s located downstairs at Harrod’s on lower level where they sell wine. Have fun!!! 🙂🇬🇧
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Thanks for all of the recommendations! My niece has decided I’m totally in charge, so I’m feeling some pressure to plan well.
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You’re very welcome! I’m happy to help.
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Fantastic moments to capture. I can’t wait to visit London one day! 😆
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Thanks so much. You will love it! 🙂
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Great photos, Tonya. London is an amazing city. Just make sure you Mind The Gap..:)
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Thank you, George. Good advice! 😉
Happy Easter!
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Happy Easter, Tonya😊
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Thank you. 🙂
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As if talking to you weren’t enough, this post REALLY makes me want to go!
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That’s a great compliment! Thanks, Judy. I know you all will really enjoy it. I have a book on Kew Gardens to share with you. 🙂
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Amazing pictures, such different subjects and emotions…surely you are enjoying your London days to the fullest… 🙂
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Thank you, Maniparna. We had a wonderful time! 🙂
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Treats such as beautiful sights and scenery, delights such as friends and husband, and wonders such as the gorgeous buildings, costumes and Princess Diana fashions and art pieces. Wow, Tonya! Hope it was the best of your London trips! 🙂 ❤
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We had a lovely time. Thank you, Robin. 😊💗
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You’re welcome but I also thank YOU for sharing so many precious images, Tonya. 🙂 💟
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That is kind. Thank you. 😊💗
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I am smiling at this response, Tonya! 💟
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Xoxo
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I cherished seeing your excellent photographs… I concur … there is such a great amount to adore about London…
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How kind!! I’m thrilled that you enjoyed the photos. London is a very special place!
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Such great pictures! I was able to visit London a few years back, but only for a day. I’m hoping I can make it back there again, but for much longer!
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Thank you very much. London is such a great city. I hope you are able to visit for longer next time. Thanks for stopping by.
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Thank you for sharing this post! 🇬🇧💂
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