Sunday 25 April 2010

The Artsy Fartsy London

After we have explored the iconic and historic places in London, we now need to experience the artsy side that is purely London, nothing but screams London.


First stop, Camden Town. Existed since 1790s, Charles Dickens named Camden Town as the location for his all time classic, the Christmas Carol. I couldn't find 'Scrooge and Marley' signage anywhere though.


This little old town has now been transform into the so-called centre for Arts, media, fashion and music. In reality, it’s like a ‘gwailo' red district area.

There’s punk culture, goth culture, piercing and tattoo culture here that we rarely find in Asia. Notice the interesting building in the pictures? Maybe Marilyn Manson and Amy Winehouse grew up here!

A notably important place that we must land our feet on is the Camden Markets which is a collection of a few adjoining markets. It is the fourth most popular visitor attraction in London, attracting approximately 100,000 people each weekend! We managed to cover only two.

Camden Lock Market is originally a craft market. Nowadays the range of goods has widened, with stalls selling books, new and second-hand clothing, and jewellery, but it is still the most craft-focused of the Camden Markets.

The Horse Stables Market on the other hand is the largest part of the Camden Market.

Stables Market has many clothes stalls as well as decorative items which are hand-made, and often ethnically influenced. Some of the goods are second-hand or twentieth-century antiques.

Look at the un-enthusiastic face of the 3 shopaholics. We don't have a single shopping bag with us, how can this happened? Renee left us after this to head to Bond St and Regent St again but I'm determined to explore more of the artsy London.

OK, the next destination is definitely more interesting. Convent Garden, home to street theatre. All aspiring artists, whether singing, acting, juggling or performing magic shows can gather to show their talents to onlookers gathering around.

There are a lot of cafes and bars at the Convent Garden for you to sit down, take a sip of coffee and review the 'artist' talent. You know, if you dream of becoming the next Simon Cowell or Piers Morgan, then this is the place to get the training in criticising hopeful artist; except that you need to do it in your head unless you don't mind getting bashed by them.

Anyway, here a series of pictures of me and a talented mime artist .... he is so funny.

Now, I have tasted the artsy London!



Location : London, England

Next, Harrods, oh Harrods