How London Has Changed and Stayed in Same in a Decade for Me

"10 years have gone by, but it felt like coming back home to a different part of my life. The streets, and everything felt very familiar, and unlike the very first time I left home. Coming home felt almost relaxing, my home away from home years ago." Lately, I've been pondering my feelings of nostalgia about more carefree days, like those days in London 10 years ago.

It's been 10 years since I've been back to London, and though some things have changed, some have not. I've missed the iconic Boots, the to-go pharmacy where you could get anything from mini-size British shampoos to distinctive hair accessories, where I used to spend hours browsing the selection that I deem to be aesthetically more pleasing than London Drugs. I've missed browsing endlessly the shelves of Selfridges, that no department in Canada could ever compare to.There's something very distinctive about British hospitality that makes it quite unlike that rawness of Southern hospitality, but yet very real in its own distinctive way. You can feel it as you talk amongst others in a local pub in the British countryside, or meet someone who notes to you politely but subtly that you forgot your scarf.

10 years ago I stepped out of the airplane and spent a year encountering and adjusting to a different culture that I grew to love; I grew to love some of its customs and traditions, even integrating some of them into my own life. These 10 years have taught me that you should learn more about yourself as you see the world through a different lense, and when you do, you become the most confident version of yourself. This decade, choose yourself - choose to embrace all the aspects of your personality and your past - because they shape your character, and they mold you, to make the choices you do today. Over the last 10 years, I feel I have grown more confident into the woman I am today and that there are many things I would not have known 10 years ago but I am better because of them. I feel so fortunate to explore new places in London and revisit familiar places once again.

Canary Wharf

I had never been to Canary Wharf before, and have always been fascinated with exploring districts in London I haven't explored before. Canary Wharf is London's Business District and is home to new modern restaurants and shopping. Stay at the Tribe Canary Wharf London and explore the restaurant Feels Like June, a Californian inspired restaurant with an amazing happy hour and all-you can eat breakfast. I loved exploring the different restaurants, including Hawksmoor London, which offers a delicious steak, with the Canary Wharf location right near the water. Canada Place at Canary Wharf reminded me of Pacific Centre in Vancouver; with all shops at Canada Place. At Canary Wharf, you'll never run out of ideas for a great place to grab lunch or dinner. Another great Indian restaurant at Canary Wharf is Dishoom, which offers elevated Indian cuisine. I have always loved the vibrancy of elevated international cuisine in London, because I feel like it incorporates the best elements of every culture and highlights their own uniqueness for the world.

Dishoom Canary Wharf

Tribe Canary Wharf

Tower Bridge - The iconic bridge built between 1886 and 1894 is not to be missed with its sweeping views of the River Thames. Designed in true neo-gothic fashion, it was designed to complement the nearby Tower of London. One may never have known that when it was first built, London was a growing city with an increasing population, and became an important trading port over the course of the next few decades. Come here early on a sunny day to see London as it wakes up and admire the changing skyline.

Buckingham Palace - As the official center of state occasions and royal hospitality, this Royal administrative headquarters is located near Hyde Park, and a short walk from the subway tube station Green Park. Ever since its beginnings when Queen Victoria moved in there in 1837, it has been an important symbol for Britain during mourning and joy. I think that national monuments should always be preserved, no matter the specific connotations with their history.The last time I went to Buckingham Palace it was my first time leaving home and travelling away for an extended period of time. This time it feels that I'm coming home again, but a different type of home.

Notting Hill - For movie lovers, we all may remember Notting Hill for the famous movie with Julia Roberts, which the iconic bookstore stills stands today. For others, Notting Hill is a wonderful excursion away from the Royal museums and attractions, and offers a glimpse into another side of London - one that is more rustic and neighbourhood - oriented. Visit Notting Hill for quirky antique shops, boutique bookstores, as well as its vibrant and colourful street markets.

Mercato Mayfair - This food court is located in St. Mark's Church and is a lively good court with international flavours spanning 2 floors. During Octoberfest season, the atmosphere in this food hall gets cheerful and boisterous, with singing and chanting of various tunes.

Tate Museum of Art - Opened in 2000, the Tate Museum of Modern Art showcases interesting works of minimalistic, abstract art from modern artists. One of my favourite pieces of art is the cover photo of this blog - showcasing me looking out the window against London's skyline, with the minimalistic rocks behind me. To me, the world outside looks like an unreal photo, but it is indeed London's skyline. One can interpret this as two different worlds - we are always looking towards hope of a better life, with our foundations right behind us.

Notable Day trips outside London:

Windsor - Something I really loved about the areas outside Central London is the distinctiveness and down-to-earth nature of people with a genuine hospitality to help others. During my previous trips to England, I have been to many cities including Cardiff, Bath, Cambridge and others, but I have never been to Windsor. Windsor Castle is famous for being the oldest and uninhabited castle in the world, built by Henry II in the 12 the century. It is also a favourite of Queen Elizabeth II. Here, stop by the iconic Wetherspoon Windsor Castle for a traditional English Breakfast with a view of the Castle. Stay at the quaint Goswell House, which is located a few minutes walking distance of Windsor Castle, for a quiet and elegant stay strolling downtown Windsor.

Chelsea Reviews: 4.8/5

Everytime I visit London, I am always bringing a different part of me, and in turn, I see a different part of London. So much has changed in the world in 10 years, but like me, London is a city that keeps reinventing and changing with the times. From world wars to global recessions, London has seen it all - and evolved accordingly with what is required with the times. London always surprises me with something new - there is always a new bar or new attraction that is opening up that I am excited to see.

I went to London to revisit the London I remembered a decade ago - and I wasn't disappointed. It is still ingrained in me that candid raw honesty and realness of this place I feel in love with still has never lost its sense of character with the passing of time. I have always believed that cities should retain their own character - even as though globalization increases. In London, through Windsor, and Notting Hill, and even Canary Wharf, I can see London's personality shine through even as the world changes.

In a world filled with chaos and constant change, I can always expect candid decency when I head back to my piece of nostalgia in London. London, I will miss you and will be back soon enough.