• Year of Visit
    • Between 2002-2004
  • Purpose of Visit
    • Flying from Malaysia to London and take a bus back to Oxford
    • Take a bus from Oxford to London
    • Flying back to Malaysia
    • One day Tour
    • Visit a friend
  • Favourite Food
    • Chinese Food
    • Malaysian Food
  • Favourite Destinations
    • The iconic red telephone booth
    • Buckingham Palace, St. James’s Park
    • London’s Chinatown
    • Big Ben

Sandra’s First Long Journey Away from Home

Sandra’s first visit to London was in September 2002, when her grandfather and uncle took her to the UK for her studies. Oxford doesn’t have an airport, so they had to arrive at Heathrow Airport in the UK. From there, they needed to take a long-distance bus to Oxford. Every time Sandra went back to Malaysia for holidays, she would always pass through London.

London is an incredibly beautiful city with many historic landmarks, such as Big Ben and London Bridge. The iconic red telephone booths and red double-decker tour buses are classic symbols of the city. The food in Malaysian and Chinese restaurants in London is absolutely delicious, and Chinatown is one of the famous spots she frequently visited. One year, Sandra even spent New Year’s Eve counting down in London.

The iconic red telephone booth

The iconic red telephone booth is a quintessential symbol of London and a must-see for any visitor. Found throughout the city, these classic, bright red structures are steeped in British history and charm. Originally introduced in the 1920s, they offer a nostalgic glimpse into London’s past. While no longer in use for public calls, the telephone booths remain a favorite photo spot for tourists. Their unique design, with its distinctive crown emblem, adds to the timeless appeal of London’s streets, making them an essential part of the city’s charm and character.

Buckingham Palace, St. James’s Park

The iconic red double-decker buses of London, including those that pass through St. James’s, are a quintessential part of the city’s charm. These buses offer a unique way to explore the capital, providing tourists with a comfortable ride and fantastic views of landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, St. James’s Park, and the Houses of Parliament. Riding on the top deck, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city’s famous sights while immersing themselves in the bustling atmosphere. A journey on one of these classic red buses is an unforgettable experience and a great way to see London in style.

London’s Chinatown

London’s Chinatown, located in the heart of the West End, is a vibrant hub of Asian cuisine and culture. The area is filled with a wide range of authentic restaurants offering delicious Chinese dishes, from traditional dim sum and Peking duck to flavorful stir-fries and hot pots. Visitors can enjoy the bustling atmosphere, with lanterns and neon signs lining the streets, while savoring expertly prepared meals in charming, welcoming settings. Chinatown is the perfect spot for food lovers to indulge in an array of flavors and experience the lively energy of one of London’s most exciting culinary districts.

Big Ben

Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and the iconic red double-decker buses are some of London’s most recognizable landmarks. Big Ben, officially known as the Elizabeth Tower, stands tall beside the historic Houses of Parliament, with its impressive Gothic architecture. Visitors can marvel at the grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage site and take in the stunning views along the River Thames. The famous red double-decker buses can be seen bustling past, offering a classic London experience. Together, these landmarks create a picture-perfect snapshot of the city’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere.