.png)
Travel dates: May 21- 31, 2024
Our trip to London and Paris was nothing short of miraculous. How everything came together so quickly remains a mystery, but it’s all God. From paid tickets and expenses, nonstop flights to affordable Airbnbs, the support of friends in the UK, and an unexpected guide in Paris, each element fell into place seamlessly, enhancing the sense of wonder and making the experience truly unforgettable.
After almost 10 hours of travel, we finally landed in London. Our Airbnb in West Ealing wasn’t exactly luxurious, it was a modest apartment with creaky floors and a tiny shower reminiscent of those in Italy, but it served its purpose as a cozy base for our adventures. A quick 30-minute nap turned into three blissful hours. Refreshed, we ventured out for dinner at Santa Maria Pizzeria, an authentic Italian delight. The night ended with a quirky battle against moths in our apartment. Despite the oddities, we settled into a reasonable night’s sleep, ready to explore.
The next day began with breakfast at Tiramisu, a charming café offering traditional English fare. High tea at The Parlor was an elegant affair, complete with delicate china, tiered trays of finger sandwiches, and fragrant teas, setting the perfect tone for a day roaming London’s bustling streets and iconic landmarks. We marveled at iconic landmarks: the ancient majesty of the Tower of London, the architectural grace of London Bridge, the timeless charm of Big Ben, the regal splendor of Buckingham Palace, the Gothic grandeur of Westminster Abbey, and the lively atmosphere of Trafalgar Square. We even caught a glimpse of Tom Hiddleston! However, an early morning disturbance led us to seek refuge at Harrison’s Coffee and eventually relocate to a more comfortable hotel.
Our journey continued with a serene day in Hyde Park, where we soaked in the lush greenery and tranquil beauty of London’s most iconic park. The adventure then took us to Oxford, a city that felt like stepping into the pages of a classic novel. We began our day with immense excitement, boarding a train that whisked us into a city steeped in intellectual legacy. Our first stop was the Eagle and Child pub, where the Inklings, J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, once gathered to exchange ideas and drafts of their masterpieces. Though the pub was closed, just standing in its storied presence felt magical.
Next, we wandered through the cobblestone streets to St. Mary’s Passage, a quaint and atmospheric spot that inspired elements of Narnia, including the iconic lamppost and the character of Mr. Tumnus. The timeless beauty of the Radcliffe Camera loomed large, and its grandeur exceeded all expectations, offering the perfect backdrop for photographs.
Lunch at Vaults and Garden was a highlight, where we indulged in hearty fare and the largest scone I’ve ever seen, slathered with clotted cream and jam. Walking through the gardens of Oxford, the city’s history seemed to come alive. We concluded our day with a visit to C.S. Lewis’s home, The Kilns. Wandering through the spaces where Lewis lived and wrote was a deeply moving experience, bringing to life the brilliance of his imagination and the profound faith that infused his work. Oxford left us inspired, feeling both intellectually and spiritually enriched.
With little planning, a spontaneous trip to Paris unfolded, thanks to Vivann, a friend who meticulously organized an itinerary. Her lovingly crafted guide led us through a whirlwind of unforgettable experiences. We began at Shakespeare and Company, the legendary bookshop filled with nooks and crannies that seemed to hold stories of its own. The rain, misting gently, added a romantic Parisian charm as we sipped creamy lattes at the adjoining café, with the silhouette of Notre Dame visible in the distance. Despite its 2019 fire, the cathedral’s beauty remains undeniable, a testament to Paris’s enduring spirit.
From there, we visited the Louvre, marveling at its vast collections before heading to the Eiffel Tower, where we indulged in macarons from Pierre Hermé. Lunch at a quaint noodle shop, Udon Jubey, offered a surprising yet delightful culinary twist. Montmartre, alive with painters and musicians, brought an artistic vibrancy to our day. We strolled its cobbled streets, taking in the energy of the bustling square as artists sketched and painted.
Our adventure continued with a ride on the funicular to Sacré-Cœur, where breathtaking views of Paris unfolded before us. The rain came and went, creating a poetic backdrop that heightened the city’s romance. Unlike Texas’s oppressive rain, Parisian showers felt refreshing and light, setting the perfect scene for exploration. As the day concluded, we reflected on the beauty, laughter, and friendship that had defined our time in this magical city, leaving us with a deep sense of gratitude and awe.
Back in London, we embraced a more relaxed pace beginning at Cecil Court, with its enchanting alley lined with charming bookshops, which became an unexpected highlight of our trip. Tucked among its treasures was Alice Through the Looking Glass, a small, whimsical bookshop dedicated to all things Alice in Wonderland. Every corner brimmed with nostalgia and wonder, shelves stacked with vintage and rare editions of Lewis Carroll's works, quirky memorabilia, and stunning prints of iconic illustrations. The shop felt like stepping into Wonderland itself, each aisle a rabbit hole inviting you to lose yourself in Carroll’s world. We lingered over beautifully bound copies, leafed through unique posters, and marveled at authentic first editions. It was a dream come true for any Alice enthusiast, blending literary history with playful whimsy.
Keeping with the theme, Daniel surprised me with reservations at the Mad Hatter’s Afternoon Tea at the Sanderson Hotel. The outdoor pavilion was a magical oasis, framed by tall greenery and adorned with playful decor that paid homage to Carroll’s tale. The tea service itself was a feast for the senses. A whimsical menu unfolded like a storybook, with teas named after characters: the subtle Queen of Hearts, the vibrant Blue Caterpillar, and the refreshing Cheshire Cat blend. The tiered trays offered an edible adventure, featuring Eat Me pastries, Drink Me potions, and scones, both plain and sultana, served with clotted cream and jam. Tiny sandwiches and themed desserts, like the Tweedledee and Tweedledum cakes, added to the playful yet sophisticated ambiance.
Every detail transported us deeper into Wonderland, from the colorful crockery to the water feature that felt straight out of the Mad Hatter’s garden. Sitting in this enchanting space, sipping endless cups of tea, I couldn’t help but feel utterly immersed in the whimsy of Carroll’s imagination. It was a highlight of the trip, an experience I hope to recreate someday, and a perfect way to celebrate the literary magic that had followed us throughout our journey.
On our final day, we visited Borough Market, a sensory feast of sights, smells, and tastes. The market was alive with energy, rows of colorful produce, bustling vendors, and enticing aromas of fresh bread and simmering paella. One stand showcased towering wheels of cheese, while another displayed vibrant punnets of strawberries glistening in the morning light. We took our time weaving through the market, sampling delicacies and gathering a picnic spread that included artisan breads, creamy cheeses, olives, and sweet treats.
With our picnic basket full, we headed to Kensington Gardens. Under the canopy of a sprawling tree, we laid out blankets and unpacked our bounty. The scene was idyllic, green grass, blooming flowers, and a light breeze that carried the laughter of nearby families. We feasted on our market treasures, savoring each bite as we soaked in the peaceful surroundings. My sweet husband, ever the comedian, exclaimed, "Nature just landed on me!" when a curious bug joined our picnic. We laughed, leaned back, and let the serenity of the garden wash over us. As rain clouds gathered, we packed up just in time, retreating to our hotel for our last nap to the rhythmic sound of raindrops.
As we boarded the flight home, we knew this trip had been a balm for our hearts. Each moment, from the laughter with friends to the quiet reflection in gardens, reminded us of God’s presence and provision. This journey was more than a vacation; it was a testament to love, resilience, and faith.
Until next time,
Comments