I was really lucky to be in London during the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. It was an amazing event with an incredible atmosphere, and I almost wished it wouldn’t end. As soon as everything started, London was undoubtedly the best place to be! Plus, I even got to see Olympians like Nathan Adrian in person.
I managed to catch a few events, including basketball, athletics, and the opening ceremony. One of the best things about these games was the ongoing regeneration in East London. The mix of old and new culture and heritage in the local communities is making Stratford an even better area to visit.
There’s plenty to do and see in East London. If you’re into shopping, you can visit one of Europe’s largest malls, Westfield Stratford. If sightseeing is more your thing, the Olympic site and the Orbit will reopen next year. East London offers a range of culinary experiences too, from traditional jellied eels to a variety of world cuisines on Brick Lane, where you can find Bengali, Ethiopian, Jamaican, and Chinese foods.
One of my top tips is to eat at Tayyabs, a Pakistani/Indian restaurant that’s very affordable. They cook everything traditionally, and if you plan to visit, arrive early because the queues can be long. If you like a drink with your meal, bring your own alcohol as there’s no corkage fee. To experience the true vibe of East London, head over to Shoreditch. It’s brimming with art galleries like the Whitechapel Gallery, vintage clothing stores such as Beyond Retro, and enjoy the free Shoreditch Festival each July, featuring music, food, and stalls. It’s a fantastic way to soak in the lively spirit of East London!