An Outsider's Opinion: An American Perspective on London and ALOL
There’s a reason London is one of the most popular tourist destinations the world. The combination of the rich and romanticized history with the modern, “It Brit” nature of the people makes London a unique haven for anyone and everyone. As an American, this city offers a life and a culture that I could never have imagined, and I find myself starting to blend into the madness of it all. That is, until I open my mouth and my Midwestern accent blows my cover. Nonetheless, I have enjoyed my time in London and want to take a moment to acknowledge some of its highlights. And since this is a fashion/jewellery blog, I’ll give you some fab ideas for accessorizing…
In the same way that London has Harrods, America has… well I don’t know that we have anything that quite lives up to the hype. Harrods is a unique combination of timeless elegance and reputation. I know I can’t afford to even touch most of the items there, but a nice dinner at one of the many restaurants or food halls will surely be enough to snap that selfie (and something cheap from the gift shop). The Teapot Charm Necklace is the perfect piece for your night out because it is quintessentially British, much like the famous department store. Fun fact: tea was also the first product Harrods ever sold! So show off your posh side and enjoy the shopping (of just looking) spree!
I think one of the attractions I was most surprised by was the Shard, a 95 story skyscraper near London Bridge. In America we have the Empire State Building and the Sears Tower, both of which allow tourists to have sweeping views of the entire city. The Shard one-ups these in my opinion because of its open rooftop garden. In true English fashion, you can sit on the grass (not sure if it’s faux) whilst sipping a glass of champagne and pointing to the London Eye and Parliament in one motion. Do, however, mind those around you and do not spill your drink on others like the lovely lady who drenched me with hers. The Daisy Studs remind me of the sweet smell of the grass and flowers, and the juxtaposition between the earthly garden and the manmade skyscraper.
For history buffs out there, the British Museum is an obvious choice, and not even for British history! Immerse yourself into ancient Egypt, South African art, and visit the Rosetta Stone. For this outing, ALOL’s Arrow Earrings are the perfect accessory. They remind me of the primitive arrowheads, spears, and tools of these ancient civilizations that we value so much today. It’s amazing that in a world full of technology, millions of people flock to museums like this one to revisit these aging artifacts.
Once you’ve had your fill of history, hopefully you’re not too full for the AH-MAAZ-ING Camden and Borough Markets. I am a self-proclaimed foodie and I am not ashamed to admit that on the days I visited these markets, I ate about three lunches. If you want to experience the culture of London, come here, where you will find the diversity in the food and friendliness of the people. Try Venezuelan street food (seriously, DO IT) and have Baklava the next cart over for dessert! Don’t worry, the pounds you spend will be easily gained back, just in another form (oops)! Obviously, I’m going to tell you that you need the Cupcake Charm Necklace for this excursion, because no matter what, those calories won’t count! You’re welcome!
After all the hustle and bustle of city life, it makes sense that one would want to get away from it all. Being from the suburban Midwest, I doubted that London had such a place that I could unwind and listen to the wind rustling though the trees. Fortunately, St. James’s Park had the cure to my cabin fever and I enjoyed eating lunch there and watching children play whilst hearing the pomp and circumstance of the Changing of the Guards. I have to recommend the beautiful Birdsong Necklace for this occasion, because this was the first time that I had heard the birds chirping since I had arrived in London. I was beginning to think the birds sounded like jackhammers here because of all the construction noise!
And finally, to cap off my transformation into a Britizen, I went the the Tower of London (for the second time) to appreciate the ups and the downs of one of the most influential cities in the world. I can’t think of anywhere else that encompasses so many eras of history, from medieval wartime, to treasonous executions, to the housing of the Crown Jewells. It serves as a monument to the country and to the crown, which is why you absolutely need to sport the Jubilee Crown Necklace as you walk past the Queen’s gems (she ain’t got nothing on your ALOL necklace, though).
Anna Lou of London is a special brand because it has evolved with the British past, present, and future in mind and will continue to impact people as long as London does. Happy travels!