Salomé Living

Showing posts with label Travel. Show all posts

Life in London is fun and interesting, but it can also get overwhelming, especially when you're on your own. A few weeks ago, I was suffocating in this beautiful city, so I booked a trip up north to relax and clear my mind. Although my life isn't what it was before moving to London, I couldn't wait to take a break and leave the city for a few days.

As a frugal woman, I like to make the most of my money and since I only needed a break. There was no point wasting time looking for an expensive city escape, so I decided to go back to Manchester, where I lived for years. It always brings back some unpleasant memories whenever I visit; however, it was also the perfect destination for a relaxing trip, since I was planning to visit Liverpool, and it's an hour away from Manchester.

I haven't been to Liverpool in years, and I've been thinking a lot about the first time I took my daughters for a day trip. I was a single mother struggling to raise 2 daughters; looking back, those days seem a lot happier than my lonely life in this big city. I don't miss the struggle; I just miss my daughters and the time we spent together as a family.

After browsing online for an hour or so, I found an affordable hotel in Manchester City centre for £115 ($152) for 3 nights, and then I purchased a coach ticket for both trips to Manchester and Liverpool. A return ticket to Manchester cost £28 ($37), and a return ticket to Liverpool cost £4 ($5). I had a £50 ($66) budget for my stay. As I already mentioned, I was only going there for a break, and it was more than enough to cover my expenses.

Everything I got from the grocery store

Relaxing On A Budget

I arrived in Manchester around 12 pm, and I couldn't check into my hotel until 3 pm. Since I was staying at a budget hotel with an option for early check-in for an extra fee, I chose to walk around Manchester instead. I have a lot to say about hotel check-in times, but I'll cover it on my YouTube channel and podcast.

The first thing I did after leaving the coach station was grocery shopping, which turned out to be a mistake. I had 3 hours until check-in time and nowhere to leave my luggage, and the last thing I needed was to carry a bag full of groceries. After picking up a few items from a supermarket, I went to Arndale, Manchester shopping centre for a toilet break.

You probably don't need to know this, but I left home at 5 am and haven't peed since leaving London at 7:30 am, because I don't like using a coach toilet. I wandered around the shopping centre for an hour. I was hungry, exhausted, and my feet hurt, but it was still too early to go to my hotel. So I kept walking around and ended up sitting in Exchange Square for another hour.

It may seem boring to sit in the same place for so long, but a man was dancing to Michael Jackson's songs. I had watched the movie a few weeks earlier, and it brought back some memories of growing up in the 90s. I had never seen him before and wondered if he started his public performance after watching Michael.

Watching a J-drama in bed

Staying Under The Duvet

I can't describe how I felt when I finally checked in. The room was simple, with a double bed, TV, and a desk. Exactly what I needed for my stay, and the best part is that a housekeeper won't knock on your door unless you request the service. After putting my things away, I took a hot shower to relax my stiff body and shoulders.

After changing into my pyjamas, I ate 2 slices of baguette and then comfortably lay down on the bed. I was too exhausted to sleep, so I watched a Japanese drama until later that night. I got out of bed around 10 pm for a night walk. One of the best things about staying in the city centre is experiencing Manchester's nightlife.

I haven't been to Oxford Street in ages and wondered if it's still one of Manchester's busiest areas. So I decided to walk from Deansgate to Oxford Street, where some of Manchester University's campuses are located. I had left the hotel for less than half an hour when I saw a couple making out on the streets, and I'm not just talking about kissing.

People do whatever they want once it's dark, and I was reminded that Manchester may not be as dangerous as London. But it was still dangerous, and it wouldn't be safe to be out on my own. So I gave up on my walk and went back to the hotel to continue watching the J-drama.

Eating my first meat pizza in years

A Taste of Meat

I didn't sleep until 4 am and stayed under the duvet the whole day. There wasn't much for me to see, as I already explained; I lived there long enough to know the city. I was still curious about Oxford Street, but it wasn't worth getting out of bed after staying up. Moreover, I was on a trip to relax, not for touristy activities.

On the second day, I ate in my room and watched Cinderella Closet or Shinderera Kurozetto; something about it reminded me of the 00s and 2010s Japanese dramas and made me want to watch Hana Yori Dango again. I was so focused on the drama that I ordered the wrong pizza in the evening. I've been a pescatarian for over 5 years, and I gave up on meat and poultry for personal reasons.

Although it wouldn't hurt me to eat meat, I probably wouldn't enjoy it because it tastes bland to me, and it has been that way since my 2nd pregnancy. I was laughing so much watching the drama that I ordered a meat feast pizza instead of a seafood one. I didn't realise my mistake until delivery, and I had to accept it since it was my own fault. For the first time in over 5 years, I tasted meat again- well, if it's really meat in a meat feast pizza.

I wouldn't say I enjoyed it or missed eating meat, but it also didn't make me feel like throwing it in the bin. I was indifferent and still ate it since I had already paid for it. I didn't leave my room and made plans to go out the following day. I hadn't forgotten that I was still on a weight loss journey, and it wasn't healthy to turn into a couch potato even on holidays.

Having fun at the Trafford Centre

Fun Day At The Trafford Centre

I finally left my room to go to the Trafford Centre on my last day in Manchester. I went out early to have enough time to enjoy myself before returning to the hotel, since I was leaving the following morning. I lived and worked a few minutes' walk away from the Trafford Centre, and it was one of my daughters' favourite places in Manchester.

It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say it's one of the most beautiful shopping centres in the UK. It reminds me of Galeries Lafayette in Paris, even though they aren't exactly on the same level, but you get what I mean. It's even better since my last visit; a few years ago it didn't have an outdoor cinema or a DJ to keep the place lively.

I started my visit by checking out some new stores, and I loved the LEGO store. I left disappointed because I wanted the One Piece LEGO set, but it was above my budget. So I bought myself a pair of lace underwear at a lingerie store to make up for the LEGOs. After walking around until my feet hurt, I grabbed a meal at a sushi bar.

After a live concert in the food court, I came across a DJ playing music on the other side of the shopping centre. It was fun to sing along while window shopping, and I didn't even realise that 5 hours had already passed. Manchester is growing so fast and will soon become the new London, even though there is still a long way to go; at least I can say that I was there when it all started.

Manchester is no longer just the city of football; it's worth visiting for many other things, and if or when you do, don't miss out on the Trafford Centre. It's easy to get there by tram or bus from Old Trafford, Manchester United's stadium. And that's how I spent 3 nights in Manchester on a budget.

Thank you for reading!

"What am I doing getting out of bed so early on a Sunday morning?!" I said to myself as I sat on my bed. I set my alarm for 3 am the night before to have enough time to travel to Central London. I wanted to see the sun rise over Buckingham Palace, and I wondered whether to go back to sleep.

I changed the direction of my travel channel to sunrise and sunset walking tours instead of vlogs. I don't regret it, but it doesn't mean getting out of bed first thing in the morning became easier, especially in summer. The sun rises at 4 am and doesn't set until 10 pm, which means I have to go out either very early in the morning or late in the evening.

There are no trains at that time, and it would take a little over an hour to get to Buckingham Palace. I quietly walked into the kitchen to make myself a cup of coffee before heading out. Everyone was still asleep, and I tried moving around as quietly as possible.

I've never wondered what Buckingham Palace looked like at sunrise before starting my walking videos, although I was reluctant to go out at such an hour. I was looking forward to seeing the sun rise over London, especially Buckingham Palace and St James's Park!

Cardinal Place, Victoria Station

Victoria Station At Dawn

It took an hour on a quiet Sunday morning to go from South London to Victoria Station by bus. It can take up to 2 hours during rush hour, and 30 minutes by train. The train and tube are the best ways to get around London, but there's a lot of service disruption, and they don't start until later on Sundays.

For anyone planning to visit London, make sure to book accommodation in Central London if you don't want to spend most of your stay commuting. It won't be cheap, but considering the cost of transport and commute time, it will be worth it.

After getting off the bus, I walked through Cardinal Place, a shopping centre in Victoria Station. It's one of my favourite routes to get to Buckingham Palace. Victoria Station is a good starting point for a fun day out in Westminster. There are many restaurants where you can grab breakfast or lunch before going on a little exploration, as mentioned in a previous post, London At Sunset: Westminster.

Victoria Station and Green Park are the nearest train stations to Buckingham Palace, but I would recommend Victoria Station as it is the closest. Cardinal Place is 5 minutes away from Buckingham Palace and 15 minutes away from Westminster Abbey and Parliament Square, or Big Ben if you prefer.

Once I was in Cardinal Place, I turned left at the escalator, went straight until the end of the road and then turned right. Buckingham Palace came into view after a few steps. I'll never get tired of the scene, even though I've seen it countless times. It was even better on a quiet Sunday morning; the roads were empty apart from some joggers and a few passing cars.

Buckingham Palace at dawn

The Sun On Buckingham Palace

As I got closer to the palace, I couldn't help but notice how breathtaking Queen Victoria Memorial was at dawn. But I didn't choose the right time to visit; there were still traces of the Commonwealth event from the day before. Everything was closed off, and I couldn't move around as much as I wanted; the photos taken weren't aesthetically pleasing.

London always gets busy in the summer, and many events take place all over the city, which can be both fun and inconvenient. I ran into a couple of tourists taking photos at the Queen Victoria Memorial and couldn't help but smile. It was a smart move to get out of bed for early-morning sightseeing.

Buckingham Palace is always included in London's itinerary, especially for a first visit. And since most people on holiday don't wake up early, the place is always packed later in the day, making it hard to take a good photo without random people in the background.

Although I live here, I always prefer to visit touristy places at dawn or late in the evening when it isn't too crowded. For me, it's the best time to fully appreciate London's beauty, and moreover, I don't have to deal with tourists and rude Londoners. I just don't like being in crowded places, and yes, Londoners live up to their reputation.

After admiring Buckingham Palace in the morning sun, I turned around and walked up the stairs to the memorial. When I brought my daughters to London in 2021, the monument was closed for repairs, and they didn't get to see it up close. I can't wait to take them on a tour when they visit. The calming sound of the water fountain made me feel at peace, and I smiled at the giggling ladies taking photos.

Flags and colourful flowers

Flags & Summer Flowers

I walked down the stairs on the side of the memorial facing The Mall. There were steel barriers all around, but it still looked beautiful, especially with the flags blowing in the wind. I went back up the stairs and walked to the farther left side of the memorial to look at the flowers near Green Park.

I only found out last year that the park on the other side of Buckingham Palace is Green Park. I used to think it was part of Hyde Park Corner, and I visited the park for the first time when I went to a Japanese festival in Trafalgar Square last September.

My first trip to London was in the spring of 2007. I stayed for a few months and even studied for a while before leaving, and all this time, I didn't know there was a park called Green Park near Buckingham Palace. That's the thing about life in a big city like London: you won't see or know everything unless you're told or specifically look for it.

The gardens around the palace are absolutely gorgeous. The London Eye and Big Ben can be seen on the other side of the memorial as shown in the photo above. London Eye can be seen in many parts of London if you look closely enough, and I love it. I usually look out for it whenever I go out, especially in Central London, and it's even more visible at night due to its blue lights.

Watching the sun shine over St James' Park is one of the most beautiful scenes you'll see in London. It looked like it came out of a painting with rays of the sun through the clouds, the lake, the plants, the Horse Guards clock tower, and finally London Eye. I would love to see a painting of this scenery!

Beautiful scenery at St James' Park

The Royal St James Park

After taking in the scenery at Queen Victoria Memorial, I walked back towards Buckingham Palace to go to Green Park, but there were still barriers and tents all over the place. So I turned right at the traffic lights to head to St James's Park instead. I wanted to visit both parks and take some photos, but there isn't much to see in Green Park, and St James's Park is actually more beautiful with its lake, wildlife, flowers and landscape.

I crossed the traffic lights at The Mall and walked towards the park. At the entrance, there is information about the changing of the guards. I went to one on a Sunday last summer, and it was so packed I left, so I'm planning to go again on a weekday.

St James's Park isn't one of my favourite parks in London; I actually prefer Greenwich Park, but it's a beautiful park. Everything about it reminds you that it was "designed" for the royal family; it's one of the few parks in London that has pelicans. There are also swans and geese, but pelicans aren't commonly found in parks.

So if you're planning to visit, make sure to take a few photos of the birds by the water stream; they look majestic. The wildlife is used to visitors and roams freely; be mindful and watch your steps. This is actually one of the reasons I prefer Greenwich Park: the chances of stepping on a baby duck are low.

St James' Park is a few minutes' walk away from Trafalgar Square, the Horse Guards, Big Ben, and Westminster Abby. Its location makes it a good spot for a short break between landmarks. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery while resting your feet, and taking a photo on the small bridge is a must for anyone visiting London.

I also took a photo in Buckingham Palace and the small bridge in St James's Park on my first visit, and haven't done it since...

Thank you for reading!

What do you do when you're single, have no friends and no one to speak to?! You go for a walk, hoping that it'll help clear your mind and keep you sane. Life hasn't been great for me lately, and since all the above applies to me, I've been going on little explorations around London. Morning and evening walks are helping me cope with everything going on in my life, and what's better than a beautiful sunrise or sunset to lift your mood?!

That's how I ended up in Central London on a random weekday. Watching the sunrise in Greenwich Park inspired me to see the sunset on Big Ben and London Eye from the Golden Jubilee Bridges in Westminster. I live far, and it's quite a journey to get there, but I didn't mind at all, as I thought it would be worth it, and you can see it in the picture above.

There is a tube to Westminster from where I live, but I was in the mood for a walk. So I took a bus and got off in Waterloo, then walked all the way to Southbank Centre, where the Golden Jubilee Bridges are located. A vlog of my walk exploring Westminster is on my YouTube Channel. It cleared my mind to walk from Waterloo to the Southbank Centre, and since I still had time before sunset, I decided to walk around Big Ben and London Eye. I was closer to the latter, and that's where I started. It was so relaxing to watch the boats on the Thames.

Westminster At Sunset

I have seen Big Ben and London Eye at dawn and night, but it was my first time watching the sunset in Westminster. I was stressed and worried when I left home, but by the time I had reached London Eye, I was at peace and couldn't have chosen a better time to visit.

It's one of the busiest places in London, and the best times to visit are early morning and late evening when the tourists and employees have left for the day. It still gets crowded, but not as much as it would around lunchtime.

I was walking towards Big Ben from London Eye when I thought that I hadn't been on that big wheel since the late 00s. I first came to London as a student in the 00s; a couple of days after arriving, I went sightseeing, and I was as excited as anyone would be on their first trip.

I started my day at Buckingham Palace, visited St James' Park, took a photo in front of Big Ben and then went to get a view of London on the big wheel. There is usually a queue in front of the telephone booth for the Big Ben photo, but it's worth the wait. And don't forget to strike a pose in Parliament Square Garden and its statues of notable figures.

Westminster Abbey is a few minutes' walk from Parliament Square, but it's going through some renovation and might not be open to the public at the time this post is published. Although I've never been inside, it's breathtaking outside and might be worth booking a visit.

Big Ben

Things To Do in Westminster

Although I didn't mind going all the way to Westminster just for the sunset, it might not be the same for you. If you're travelling from far, this is what I would recommend to make the most of your day. London is breathtaking at sunset or night, so if you're planning to go on the wheel for a view of the city, the later the better.

Buckingham Palace is a good starting point for a fun day out in London; you can then visit St James's Park, which is less than 5 minutes' walk from the Palace. Since we're out exploring and don't feel rushed, you can leave the park by one of its many exits to The Mall, the ceremonial route between Buckingham Palace and Trafalgar Square. You can follow

The Mall all the way to Trafalgar Square; from there, head to The Horse Guards, which is a 10-minute walk. There is a shortcut to the Horse Guards and Big Ben from St James's Park if you aren't interested in Trafalgar Square. The next stop after the Horse Guards will be Big Ben.

After taking a few photos and listening to Big Ben's chime, you can go to Westminster Abbey through Parliament Square. After your visit, you can go to the Churchill War Rooms and then go on the Big Wheel for a view of London. You can take an Uber Boat to see Tower Bridge up close; I think that would be a great way to end your day out. If you love museums and galleries, I would recommend adding Tate Modern and the National Portrait Gallery to your itinerary.

As a pescatarian, I don't eat out that much, so I wouldn't know the best places to grab a bite in Westminster. You can visit Cardinal Place, a shopping centre near Victoria Station, which is a few minutes' walk away from Parliament Square. If you don't feel like walking, you can hop on a bus to Victoria. There are plenty of restaurants inside the shopping centre and on the main road, and the best thing is that Buckingham Palace is just around a corner if you start your day at Big Ben.

London Eye

Thank you for reading!

After closing the door behind me, I suddenly realised that I had forgotten my watch. I stood there for a few minutes, wondering whether to go back inside and retrieve it or just carry on. It was after 4 am, and I was on my way to Greenwich Park. I was hesitant to go back inside because it was early in the morning, and I didn't want to disturb my housemates.

I was planning to walk all the way to Greenwich Park, but getting my steps in wasn't the main goal. I wanted to see the sunrise over London, and I had better be on my way if I wanted to make it there for 6 am. I looked at the sky, zipped my coat all the way up and took my first steps to leave the property. Once I was out on the street, I turned right and started walking downhill towards the main road.

There is a 24 hr bus service to Greenwich from where I live, but I wanted to walk and was heading to the main road only for safety reasons. It isn't safe for a woman to use back streets in the early hours of the morning in a city like London. As beautiful as London is, it's a pretty dangerous city to live in, so caution is recommended.

Things haven't been great for me since March, and I've been feeling down lately; no matter how hard I try, nothing seems to work out the way I expect it. I even cut myself badly with a hand mixer while making a smoothie. I got a few stitches in my finger, which is why this post will be published later than usual.

So my morning walks aren't just for weight loss anymore; they're also a way for me to clear my mind and try to stay positive despite the setbacks. And I left home first thing in the morning to see the sunrise over London, hoping to enjoy a moment of peace and quiet in this busy city!

London's skyline from Observatory Hill

Rosy Sunrise In Greenwich Park

I was exhausted and out of breath when I reached Greenwich Park. I thought I had enough time to make it for the sunrise, but I underestimated the distance since I couldn't take shortcuts and had to walk along the main road.

I sat on a bench near the flower garden to rest, and the best view of the London skyline is from near the Royal Observatory, at the very end of the road from the Blackheath entrance. It was quite a walk from where I sat. Although I was exhausted, I got on my feet and started walking again. I didn't have my watch to track my steps, but I knew I had already reached my goal of 20k steps a day.

I used a small entrance to get into the park, and you can go through the flower garden to get to the main entrance, but I preferred to walk around it, as the beautiful cherry blossoms in the garden would've been too distracting. I was anxious to make it in time to see the sunrise before the sun was high in the sky. I highly recommend a visit to Greenwich Park Flower Garden; it's breathtaking in spring and summer.

There were mostly joggers in the park and a few random people like myself who came to enjoy a quiet moment at sunrise. Greenwich Park is a popular tourist spot, and it's been one of my favourite places in London since my first trip to the city as a student in the late 00s. It's always packed with tourists, families, locals, and students.

It's located in Greenwich Town Centre, where you can find Greenwich Market, retail stores, restaurants, coffee shops and more. The Queen's House, The Cutty Sark, The National Maritime Museum, and Greenwich Pier are just a few minutes' walk away from the park, which makes it an ideal destination for a fun day out.

So it gets very busy during the day, and if you want to enjoy a quiet moment in this beautiful park, I recommend a visit early in the morning. The view of the London Skyline in the morning glow is worth getting out of bed.

Ranger's House in the flower garden

A Sun Glowing Over London

"London is so beautiful at sunrise", I thought to myself as I pulled my phone out of my pocket and started taking photos. I have been visiting Greenwich Park for years, but it was my first time seeing the sun glow over the park and London.

I walked as fast as I could to the observatory hill, and my feet hurt so much that I wanted to take off my trainers, but it was worth it. It brought me peace to look at London's skyline in the morning sunlight. I have been doubting myself a lot lately, and I can't wait to leave this city, as I'm feeling out of place here, but nothing mattered in that moment.

Except for the silence, the rosy sunrise and the beautiful spring flowers. My mind was blank, and I was at peace, so I left the observatory hill to head to the rose garden. I couldn't think of a better moment to look at my favourite flower, and instead of going straight there, I took a little detour by the cherry blossom alley.

Greenwich Park is one of the best parks in London to see the cherry blossoms in spring. The blossoms seemed late this year, as they were just starting to bloom during my visit, but it was still an amazing view. The Ranger's House looked so beautiful in the first rays of sunlight through the cherry blossoms.

Walking down the alley to head to the rose garden reminded me of why Greenwich Park will always be one of my favourite places in London. There weren't any roses in the garden yet, but I saw some beautiful tulips and cherry blossoms, which made me happy.

If I'm still in London next spring, I would love to visit Kyoto Garden again. It doesn't usually come up when people talk about the best places to see cherry blossoms in London, but it's a Japanese garden. So I might see some cherry blossoms, and the waterfall alone is worth the visit, to be honest. I wanted to share this moment with you, hoping to inspire you to visit Greenwich Park when London is still quiet and "slow".

St Mary's Lodge in Greenwich Park

Thank you for reading!

It's been nearly a year since I moved to London, and I still haven't been to Tower Bridge, even though it's a must-see landmark. I lived in London in the late 00s as a student and have visited the city countless times since moving to England. I've seen Tower Bridge close up on an Uber boat once, but I still haven't been since moving back here.

It's no longer at the top of your priorities to visit a famous landmark once you move to a city; I think it's a feeling shared by a lot of people in big cities."I live in London now, and the landmarks aren't going anywhere, so I can visit anytime I want." That's what I usually say to people when they ask which popular landmark I've been to. What makes a city unique becomes normal to you once you move there, and that's exactly how I felt living in Manchester.

Although I'm a Manchester United fan, I went to the stadium only when I first moved there and after getting a job nearby. I used to drive by the Etihad Stadium, Manchester City's home stadium, but never visited even once. I just got back from a trip to Manchester, and thought about going to Man City stadium during my stay. I visited a lot of places I had no interest in going when I lived there.

It felt nostalgic to go back to one of my favourite coffee shops. It's located in Manchester City Centre and quickly became my refuge when life was hard back then. Enough time has passed since I left Manchester, and I believe I've also moved on from past trauma. I felt like going back to try their buns again to see if they were still as good as I remembered.

Salford Quays harbour

2 Nights In Manchester

I booked a hotel room in Salford Quays, the neighbourhood where the BBC studios and Old Trafford, the Man United stadium, are located. It has one of the best night views you'll see in Manchester, and I couldn't think of a better place to stay. It's just a few minutes away from the city centre by bus or tram. I also went back there for nostalgia's sake.

When I worked in Salford Quays, I used to walk around the canal on my lunch break, and it was one of the happiest moments of my life in Manchester.

I arrived in Manchester around 12pm and couldn't check into my hotel until 3pm, so I walked around the city centre to see what had changed since I left.

I was pleasantly surprised to see so many Japanese and Korean restaurants. In the mid 2010s, you could barely find any Japanese restaurants, and now there is a sushi bar or a Korean barbecue on every corner. I stopped by a sushi stand to grab something to eat before hopping on bus 50 to Salford Quays.

The tram or bus to MediacityUK is the quickest and easiest way to travel from Manchester city centre. It was still too early to check in at the hotel, and since I was starving, I sat by the canal to enjoy my meal. I sat by the tram station close to the BBC studios; it's a beautiful space where people can sit to relax and enjoy a meal. There is also an outdoor cinema in the summer, which is free, so you can stop by at any time during a showing to watch a film.

I highly recommend late sessions as the view is breathtaking. On the other side of the tram station is the Blue Peter park, which has beautiful cherry blossoms in spring, and if you're in the mood for shopping or want to grab a bite. The Lowry Outlet is just a few minutes' walk away. It used to be a bustling shopping centre, but many stores have closed down. There is still a cinema, a few clothing stores and restaurants left.

This meal felt lonely, but I still devoured the sushi.

Sunset In Old Trafford

After finally checking into my hotel, I took a shower, ate a snack I picked up at an Asian supermarket and took a nap. I was up since 3am for the trip and needed to rest before heading out again. The plan was to go for a walk from Salford Quays to Man United stadium at sunset to make a vlog for my YouTube channel. I ended up sleeping for only half an hour and watched Sins of Kujo, a new Japanese drama with Yuya Yagira, until it was time to go out. If you love crime dramas, I highly recommend it. It was so good, I binge-watched it during my trip. Unlike the last time I went to Manchester, I explored the city and had so much fun walking around.

I checked the weather app to make sure I would get there on time to see the sunset in Salford Quays. I left my hotel at 6:30 pm as I was planning to take the longest route and walk slowly. I also had to take into account the many stops I'd make along the way to record or re-record a video. I started off at the side of the canal nearest to my hotel. I walked along and crossed a couple of bridges.

One of the best decisions I've made in recent years was to become a content creator. As an introvert, it wasn't easy to hold a camera in public when I started this journey, but I'm more confident now, even though it somehow seems to trigger some people.

I've had a few altercations with strangers, completely unprovoked, where I've been insulted, and some people stepped in to help me, so I didn't let it get to me. I retraced the exact steps I used to take when I worked in Salford Quays a few years ago. I always went on a walk on my lunch break, and that's the reason I'm so familiar with the area, even though I lived on the other side of Manchester.

The stadium is visible from the canal, and when it gets darker, the red lights at the top read Manchester United. I have been a fan of Man United since I was a teenager, and it's one of the reasons I chose to live in this city. The team isn't what it used to be, but it's still Man United, and it was quite an experience to watch the sunset from a place that meant so much to me long before moving to England.

Old Trafford, Man United's Home

The Best Places In Manchester

I spent the following day focusing on the reason that brought me back to Manchester. I was free to explore again in the late afternoon, so I went back to my hotel to freshen up. I went out again in the evening to grab a bite and watch the new Mario movie at The Lowry Outlet, then headed back to Manchester city centre to capture the Sunset.

During this trip, I came to realise that my life was so tense that I actually didn't take the time to watch the sunset or sunrise in Manchester. This experience happened only because I changed the direction of my YouTube channel to focus on sunsets or sunrises during my trips, and I'm so grateful for it.

A day out in Manchester city centre can be fun if well planned, as there are a lot of activities to do around the city. You can visit Manchester Cathedral, the Football Museum or The Illusion Museum. From there, you can go shopping or grab lunch in Arndale, which has a lot of restaurants, including a street food market.

That's where I got the sushi on my first day. Deansgate is also a good place to go for fine dining options. It would also be worth it to pop into the John Ryland Library with its Harry Potter vibe, and we can't talk about Manchester Life without mentioning Spinningfields.

It became one of my favourite spots in Manchester when I went to college a few years ago, and before moving out of Manchester, I went there for bottomless pancakes. Big banks and companies are based in Spinningfields, as well as good restaurants and bars; it's definitely the place to go for live music and a more relaxed vibe.

One of my hobbies in Manchester was cafe hopping. I gave it up after moving to London, and on the last day of my trip, I went back to one of my favourite cafes, Pappa Roti, for their delicious buns. The waitress was overwhelmed as she was working alone. So the service wasn't as good as I remembered it, but I can't recommend their Biscoff and pistachio buns enough.

I went for a walk in Ancoats after breakfast and walked all the way to the Etihad Stadium, home to Man City, but I can't talk about Man United and Man City in the same post. If you want to know more about my trips, check out my vlogs on my YouTube channel; the links are all over my blog.

My favourite buns on the menu

Thank you for reading!

I instantly felt the cold wind on my face as I walked out the front door and tried to close it quietly behind me. I pulled my hoodie over my head as I turned left, heading downhill. It was 5am on a Sunday in mid-March, and I left home for a long walk as part of my weight loss journey. As far as I can remember, I always loved walking, and since I lack the motivation to work out at the gym, I decided to turn one of my favourite hobbies into an aerobic exercise. I walk for at least 2 hours three times a week, and it was one of those mornings when I went for a walk despite the cold or rain. The goal was to walk all the way to Greenwich Park, although I wasn't sure if I would make it.

I came back from a trip to the north of England a day before and was pretty exhausted, but I didn't want to make any excuses, so I got out of bed that morning. The most important thing was to get some exercise. I picked up the pace after reaching the main road at the bottom of the hill, then I took a short break to catch my breath and admire the sky. I'm more motivated than ever to lose weight, as I want to go back to being fit and healthy and walking down the streets of London at sunset is something I've come to appreciate. I was turning left when I spotted a magnolia in bloom from the corner of my eye on the other side of the road.

I stopped, pulled out my phone and crossed the road to have a closer look at the tree and flowers. Early spring is one of my favourite times of the year; it's fascinating to see nature bloom after winter. I love looking for flowers, taking the time to admire them and then capturing the moment. It makes my walks feel more adventurous, and that's why I couldn't help but make a quick detour. The beautiful magnolia tree reminded me that it had been nearly a year since I moved to London. I came in May last year, and it was too late to see the cherry blossom, so it's my first cherry blossom season in London, and I already love it!

White cherry blossoms in Sussex Gardens

Are There Cherry Blossoms in London

London isn't the first thing that comes to mind when you think of cherry blossoms, at least, it didn't cross mine until I came across some videos on TikTok about cherry blossoms in London. As someone who consumes mostly Japanese media, I have always wanted to visit Japan in spring to see the beautiful cherry blossoms just like in anime and dramas. After finding out there are many cherry blossom trees in London, I was looking forward to seeing them. But I arrived after the season and was pretty disappointed, so I can't tell you enough how excited I am about my first cherry blossom season in London.

Are there really cherry blossoms in London? Yes, and I've already seen some of them, as shown in the pictures I took above. Cherry blossoms aren't limited to London; you can see them in most cities and towns in the UK, but let's focus on London. I saw my first cherry blossom of the season in Greenwich Park, but it wasn't during one of my early morning walks. I went there to look for cherry blossoms as Greenwich Park is one of the best places to see them here in London. Although I found a cherry blossom on that day, it was too early to see them in full bloom.

The most beautiful cherry blossoms I've seen so far were at Sussex Gardens in Paddington. I was having a bad day after missing a train for a day trip, so I decided to explore Paddington since I didn't want to head back home, and that's how I stumbled upon Sussex Gardens. It isn't big, but it's one of the most beautiful gardens I've seen, and there were so many people taking photos. It made me feel better to walk under those beautiful cherry blossoms after having a bad start to the day. My mood improved so much that I headed to Battersea Park, which is also known for its beautiful cherry blossoms.

Cherry blossoms in Sussex Gardens

When Is The Cherry Blossom Season

The picture above was taken in Sussex Gardens on 18th March. I also visited Battersea Park on the same day, and the cherry blossoms were already in full bloom even though most trees start flowering in mid-March and peak towards the end of the month. So the best time to see cherry blossoms is towards the end of March and the beginning of April; they can bloom earlier or later in the month, depending on the weather. I visited 3 cities during a recent trip to the north of England, and I got to admire cherry blossoms in 2 cities while they hadn't flowered yet in another.

London is such a big city that it will depend on where you're located. There were barely any cherry blossoms when I went to Greenwich Park the last time, yet they were in full bloom in Paddigton just a few days later. If you are planning to see cherry blossoms in London, do your research based on your location. Social media is a good way to stay up to date, especially TikTok. The most common type of cherry blossoms you'll find in London are the pink, pale pink and white flowers. In addition to the cherry blossoms, you can also see flowers such as magnolias, snowdrops, yellow daffodils and tulips in London.

Although the tulips bloom around April and May, I'm actually going to visit a tulip farm in April. Now that you know there are cherry blossoms in London, where do you actually have to go to see them? Commuting in a big city like London can be costly and take time, so if possible, it's best to plan your activities in the same area. When I went on a day out in central London the other day, I planned my activities around Trafalgar Square so I wouldn't have to travel all over the city. You don't want to go all the way to Battersea Park for the cherry blossoms, have lunch in Kensington, then go for drinks in Ealing.

Cherry blossoms in Battersea Park

Where Are the Cherry Blossoms In London

I was pleasantly surprised to find such beautiful cherry blossoms in Sussex Gardens in Paddington. Most people wouldn't think of going there to see cherry blossoms in London, and that's exactly why I loved it. There are places here that make the experience feel amazing or unique, but you can see cherry blossoms all over London. I'm going to share the most popular places to see them in London, but if you're an introvert or don't do well in crowded places, it might be worth checking out the nearest park

or some houses in the neighbourhood.

I have cherry blossoms and magnolias on my street, and it's always a pleasure to walk past them. To be honest, I prefer photos of cherry blossoms or magnolias taken in front of a London house. These are the places where you can see beautiful cherry blossoms in London

Battersea Park
Greenwich Park
Kensington Palace Gardens
Notting Hill
Regent Park
St. James ' Park
St Paul's Cathedral

Don't forget to see some cherry blossoms if you're visiting outside of London, like I did on my last trip!

Cherry blossoms in Sheffield

I went to York for the first time in the spring of 2024 for a day trip. York is one of the best cities to visit in the UK. So I was excited to finally make the trip after hearing so many good things about the city. I had started my solo travel journey a couple of months earlier and made some beginner's mistakes. I travelled to York in early March, which is still pretty cold in the north, and I wasn't dressed for the weather. It also didn't help that it was a rainy day, so I ended up seeing only York Minster and the city walls, and spent the rest of my day cafe-hopping to stay dry and warm.

My first trip to York wasn't exactly how I pictured it. I promised myself I would plan another trip and make sure to fully explore the city. I went back to York for an overnight stay a few weeks before Christmas. I made the trip for a job interview and shared my journey on YouTube. I just had enough time to visit The Shambles and York Minster before heading to my interview, for which I received a job offer. I turned it down and honestly didn't think I would be going back there anytime soon, but I did. I went to York for the third time and finally got to fully appreciate the beauty of this walled city in the north of England.

After living in the north of England for many years and having to leave due to bad experiences, I had no interest in going back after moving to London. I thought my time in the north was over, but York keeps calling me, and I'm starting to fall in love with the city. It has a rich and beautiful history, the people are friendly, and it would be perfect for someone who wants to live a balanced lifestyle.

The Shambles And The City Walls

When I started my solo travel journey, I was more interested in adding new cities to my list of places I've been to than having a touristy experience. So I planned my trips on a budget and looked only for free or cheap activities to do during my visit. I spent more time walking around a city, visiting museums and libraries, than going to a famous landmark. My first trip to York was no exception; I started by walking around The Shambles, where I had a delicious cinnamon roll and latte. From there, I headed to York Minster, which is just a few minutes' walk away.

I didn't book a visit inside the Minster, so I went for a walk in the Minster's Garden. The garden was breathtaking in early spring with its cherry blossoms. I sat at a bench and took a moment to admire the scenery. The garden and streets were filled with tourists, but I was at peace; the moment of contemplation was cut short due to the rain. I found refuge in a cosy and vintage cafe down the street, where I enjoyed another latte before heading to the city walls.

The stairs leading to the walls were steep, and I probably annoyed the people behind me for climbing so slowly, but I'm afraid of heights. I usually avoid going to high places, but I couldn't skip a walk on York's city walls, as the city used to be a Roman fortress. York has Roman and Viking roots, and I had to walk on the City Walls as it is part of York's history. On my second trip, I went back to York Minster, but it was closed for renovation. I travelled around Christmas, and most tourists don't visit York in Winter.

Cliffords Tower

A Beautiful City And Its Friendly People

I would've never thought of visiting York in winter if I hadn't had a job interview there around Christmas last year. The city was quite a sight with all the Christmas decorations, and my favourite part of the trip was interacting with locals and listening to Christmas Carols on the streets. There were also quite a few street performances despite the cold and rain, which made the city feel lively.

York is now one of the few UK cities that I have visited more than twice. And there is still so much to see and do. I don't think I'm quite done with it yet. I still haven't had a real meal in York. During my first trip, I only had a cinnamon roll and lattes. On my second trip, I had breakfast in my hotel, and I ate so much that I didn't eat anything until I was in Leeds, heading back to London.

I would love to explore York's food scene one day, preferably in autumn when the leaves start turning golden yellow. York is just a little over an hour away from London by train, and the tickets are quite cheap when purchased in advance. On my third trip, a return ticket cost £58, and I travelled from King's Cross station to York. I had such a great time visiting York that I can't recommend it enough. I had an amazing time without breaking the bank; there are plenty of free and cheap activities to enjoy if you're on a tight budget.

Roman Crest on the City Walls

I share my thoughts on my podcast The Hushed Journal, available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. New episodes on Wednesdays and Sundays; feel free to join me for a chat. See the links below.

Spotify Apple Podcasts

Thank you for reading!

After living in England for a few years, I thought it was finally time to visit the beautiful and historic city of Oxford. I originally planned my first trip to Oxford for October 2024. I purchased a return ticket, booked a hotel, and planned my itinerary, but had to cancel due to unforeseen circumstances. I forgot all about it after moving to London, to be honest, until one of my cousins came for a visit this summer and took a day trip to Oxford.

As someone who has been a fan of The Lord of the Rings since my teenage years, her trip to Oxford, the home of J.R.R. Tolkien, was a poignant reminder that I still hadn't been there, despite residing in England for years. A few weeks later, I booked another trip to Oxford for autumn and this time I was planning to make it. I chose autumn again because it's my favourite season and I wanted to see what Oxford looks like in autumn colours.

I had a lot going on at the time, and couldn't be careless with money, but I still wanted to make the trip. So I purchased a return ticket by coach for a day trip. Oxford is just a little over two hours away from London by coach and an hour by train. A day trip was perfect for my first time in the city. I left home at first light to set out on my journey. I had to board the Oxford Tube from Victoria Station, which is far from where I live, and I didn't want to be late.

My First Trip To The Historic City Of Oxford

I left home before the trains started running, so I had to take a bus to Victoria Station, and the journey was nearly two hours. I got there in time to board my coach to Oxford, even though I went to Victoria Coach Station thinking that's where I was travelling from. Oxford Tube is one of the most affordable ways to travel to Oxford; a one-way advanced (cheap) train ticket to Oxford from London was around £50, and I paid only £25 for a return ticket with Oxford Tube.

It was raining lightly when I left London, and I was worried that I might have to walk in the rain for my first visit. I arrived in Oxford a couple of hours later, and it was raining lightly. The first thing I did was to find a cafe for breakfast as I was starving. I walked down the streets blindly until I found one where I had a pain au raisin and a latte. After breakfast, I went to the Westgate shopping centre, which was just a few minutes away. I wasn't looking for anything in particular; I just wanted to see what it looked like. I was sightseeing after all.

It was still too early to visit Christ Church Meadows, so I went to the covered market. I first heard of Oxford University when I was a kid, and it felt surreal to walk down the streets of such a famous and historic city. It happened to be graduation day, and I ran into a few students in their graduation gowns, accompanied by their proud parents. One of the best things about my trip was walking in Oxford's back alleys; it was so picturesque!

A view of a Gothic tower behind a stone gate with iron bars, surrounded by autumn trees

Honey Limestones, Historic Buildings And Fallen Leaves

As I mentioned above, I had a tight budget and couldn't afford the fee to visit most universities. Some offered free entry, but there was a long queue, and I had to go back to London on the same day. It's still possible to have a fun trip without breaking the bank. I stopped by the covered market on my way to Christ Church Meadows, where there were characters from Alice in Wonderland on the market's ceiling. It was fun to walk all over the place looking for my favourite one.

I only found out before my trip that Lewis Carroll was a lecturer at Oxford Christ Church, and the story was inspired by Oxford and its people. There is also a cow covered in Alice in Wonderland characters at Oxford Westgate's shopping centre. The highlight of my trip was looking at the historic buildings made of honey coloured limestones bricks behind the bright colours of autumn. The scenery was breathtaking, and I couldn't help but capture it with my camera.

Nothing screams tourist more than holding a vlogging camera and a DSLR, but it didn't matter; the moment was too beautiful to care how I looked to other people. And that's the moment I knew that I wanted to move to Oxford. I haven't been in London for a year, but I've been thinking about leaving because I feel out of place, and it keeps reminding me of why I left this city when I moved to the UK.

The beautiful journey of today can only begin when we learn to let go of yesterday. Steve Maraboli

The Trip That Changed My Life

When I got off the coach after arriving in Oxford, a bus driver told me to have a good day, and I can't remember the last time a stranger was so nice since moving to London. I lived for years in a town where it's normal to greet a stranger on the street or thank your driver, but that's not how it is in London. I wouldn't call people in London unfriendly, but they can get under your skin, and I don't like the person I'm becoming, trying to fit in.

That's the reason I've been thinking about leaving London, but I wasn't sure whether to head back north or move to Scotland or Wales. Now I know exactly where I want to live next, and I couldn't choose a better city than Oxford. Is spending a few hours there enough to make such an important decision? I moved up north after travelling to Manchester for a weekend and stayed for years until last summer. I will take a leap of faith once again, and whatever happens happens!

The cost of my day trip to Oxford came down to £40. I spent £25 on coach tickets and £15 on food. I didn't get to visit the universities, but I had fun walking down the streets, looking at the historic buildings outside, running into Oxford graduates and exploring its back alleys. More importantly, this trip changed my life as it gave me a new purpose, a start to a new life in Oxford. I highly recommend a visit to Oxford, and I hope you'll love it as much as I did!

Christ Church Meadows, behind lined trees in autumn

I went to Manchester for the first time a few months after living in England. At that time, I was living with my sister in London. It was supposed to be just a weekend trip; however, I fell in love with the city and decided to move there. I lived in Manchester until this summer. Life was good until a couple of years ago, when things started to go wrong.

A Life-Changing Experience In Manchester

I was a single woman raising two daughters when a man broke into my house one day. I'm not ready to share more about this, but it was a traumatic experience. I sustained some injuries and now have chronic pain in my shoulder. The worst part was that no one cared enough to help—not even the police. I don’t know what happened to the guy, whether he was arrested or not. It became clear to me that I was on my own.

My daughters weren't physically harmed, but I worried about my ability to protect them if something like this happened again. So, I made the difficult decision to send them to live with their dad. He wasn’t the right man for me, but he loves his daughters and will take good care of them. Since I was also being targeted at work, I packed my bags and left Manchester a few months after my daughters went to live with their dad. It wasn't my hometown, and I had no reason to tolerate the mistreatment.

My Healing Journey in London

I chose to move to London because I have a sister here and needed time to think about my next steps. The plan was to go to Japan, but the wave of xenophobia towards tourists and foreigners put me off, considering my experience in Manchester. So, I decided to settle down in London to begin my healing journey.

I couldn't think of a better city to move on from a bad experience. I started a blog and YouTube channel to share my new journey here in London. It's always been therapeutic for me to put my thoughts into writing. As an introvert and socially awkward woman, this is the best way for me to connect with people. I'm not a big city person either, and I would rather live in a smaller town; however, life has been good in London. I'm in a better place now than I was six months ago.

That's why I decided to go on a trip to Manchester for closure. I can't fully embrace my new life if I'm still holding on to the old one. I needed to know if I had any regrets, was holding a grudge, or had truly moved on from everything that happened. So, I booked a hotel for two nights and purchased a return ticket to Manchester.

Travelling in the UK on a Budget

I went to Manchester by coach; the return ticket cost only £16 ($20) and it took over five hours to travel from London to Manchester. In some countries, travelling by coach might seem like a "poor vibe," but let me tell you, this is the best way to travel around the UK without breaking the bank. I wouldn’t go on a spontaneous trip to Manchester if I had to travel by train. Advanced train tickets can cost up to £300 ($392).

The cheapest option is approximately £50 ($65), and the journey can take over four hours. I got one of those tickets when I went back to return my house key. I had to change trains, and the waiting time was nearly two hours. The worst part was that the train was packed, and I had to stand the entire way to Manchester. It's actually more convenient to travel by coach. I'm going on another trip in a couple of days and will vlog my entire journey.

I stopped using Airbnb when my host ghosted me during a trip to Paris back in April. I found them comfortable and practical until that experience. Two nights in a small hotel in Manchester cost £75 ($98), including breakfast. I wasn't holding my breath, to be honest, but I was pleasantly surprised by how clean and cosy the hotel was. I use Booking.com to find great deals.

A Relaxing Moment at the Trafford Centre

From the coach station, I went straight to Manchester United's stadium, Old Trafford. It was my first destination in Manchester because Man United is my favourite team and one of the reasons I moved to the city. I wanted to create content for my YouTube channel and couldn't think of a better place than the Manchester United ground.

After visiting the stadium, I headed to the Trafford Centre, since it's in the same neighbourhood. I wanted to check out a new Japanese restaurant I had heard so much about to try their sushi. I mostly eat at Japanese restaurants when I'm out and about because it's less stressful for me as a pescatarian. I heard good things about the restaurant and wanted to try their sushi.

Chinese families own many Japanese restaurants in Manchester, although it’s becoming easier to find authentic ones. Keep that in mind if you plan to visit Manchester. After my delicious meal at the restaurant, I returned to Manchester City Centre, where I grabbed some snacks from an Asian supermarket before heading to my hotel.

Sushi and snacks from an Asian supermarket

Sleeping Is Better Than Sightseeing

After checking in, I went to my room, which was located on the third floor. It was quite a struggle to climb the stairs with a heavy backpack and shopping bags. I didn't expect the room to be so big. There was a double bed facing the bedroom door, a single bed on the other side, a kitchen corner, and a desk. The bedroom was separated from the bathroom by a long corridor. From the front door, you have to walk to the end of the corridor to either go to the bathroom or the bedroom.

Staying in a hotel in a city where I had a house a few months ago was a funny experience. It's probably because I lived there for years that I didn't feel like leaving my room to go sightseeing. I had plans to go, but I cancelled them and spent two days in my hotel, eating sushi and snacks that I had purchased the day of my arrival. A relaxing time in my hotel room was actually what I needed after the stress of moving to London.

It may seem pointless to go to another city to lock yourself away in your hotel room, but I'm glad I made this trip. I did nothing but watch J-dramas, laugh at TikTok, and sleep. I was at peace, and that's how I know that my mind and body may not have forgotten, but they've moved on. For anyone travelling to Manchester, I highly recommend the Hazeldean Hotel for affordable accommodation.

Embracing Change and Finding Clarity

As I reflect on my journey, I realise that embracing change is essential for growth. Life can throw unexpected challenges our way, but it’s how we respond that defines our path. I’ve learned to find clarity through honest storytelling and shared experiences. My time in Manchester was not just about revisiting the past; it was about acknowledging it and moving forward.

Every experience, good or bad, shapes who we are. I’m grateful for the lessons I’ve learned along the way. They’ve helped me build a supportive community around my personal journey of reinvention. So, if you’re feeling lost or unsure, remember that it’s never too late to embrace change.

In the end, my trip to Manchester was about more than just closure; it was a step towards a brighter future. I’m excited to continue sharing my journey and connecting with others who are navigating their own paths. Life is full of possibilities, and I can’t wait to see where mine will lead next.

Relaxing On A Budget

Staying Under The Duvet

A Taste of Meat

Fun Day At The Trafford Centre

Victoria Station At Dawn

The Sun On Buckingham Palace

Flags & Summer Flowers

The Royal St James Park

Westminster At Sunset

Things To Do in Westminster

Rosy Sunrise In Greenwich Park

A Sun Glowing Over London

2 Nights In Manchester

Sunset In Old Trafford

The Best Places In Manchester

Are There Cherry Blossoms in London

When Is The Cherry Blossom Season

Where Are the Cherry Blossoms In London

The Shambles And The City Walls

A Beautiful City And Its Friendly People

My First Trip To The Historic City Of Oxford

Honey Limestones, Historic Buildings And Fallen Leaves

The Trip That Changed My Life

A Life-Changing Experience In Manchester

My Healing Journey in London

Travelling in the UK on a Budget

A Relaxing Moment at the Trafford Centre

Sleeping Is Better Than Sightseeing

Embracing Change and Finding Clarity

ABOUT ME

SUBSCRIBE & FOLLOW

Featured Post

A Relaxing Trip On A Budget

POPULAR POSTS

Categories

Contact Form

Search This Blog

Blog Archive

Salomé Living

Labels