Christmas in London

November 25, 2016 by: Sunny London

Chi Kitchen Christmas Menu

Guess who’s back? Yep. Mr. Sunny and I hit Oxford Street and Regent Street to see the 2016 Christmas lights and made sure to visit Chi Kitchen again to absorb the new Christmas menu.

We reviewed the restaurant recently, and if you have been watching my tweets, you know I suggest that it is the place to visit during Christmas if you need a food and shopping stop combined in to one, as it is inside Debenham’s department store. Our experience was great. For general ambiance information, you can read about in my previous review. To summarise, it’s easy to find, and of course, in a spectacular location for Christmas shoppers.

When it comes to the food, we feel it is great for the value. The Pan-Asian twist on Christmas caught our attention. First to hit our table is the Chilli Prawns, Sweet Potato and Turkey Sliders.

I quickly munched down all the sweet potato fries and gave Mr. Sunny the spicy opportunity to devour the chilli prawns. We both were a bit puzzled about the turkey sliders because they seem a bit unnatural for a pan-Asian menu. While they are good, the real show stealer is the blueberry mayo you see in the center. Wow- I never would’ve thought of combining these ingredients.

For the Main course, we enjoyed the Grilled Turkey with a Kalamsansi Sauce, Choo Cher Prawns, and Yuzu Salmon.

It is accompanied by a lovely side of Egg friend rice with snow peas.

For dessert, the Chi Kitchen Christmas Menu includes a Walnut Chocolate Brownie with Clotted Cream and Custard. We enjoyed this but felt a bigger dollop of clotted cream would work well.

If you’ve watched my Afternoon Tea Etiquette Guide for London, you know why.

Chi Kitchen Christmas Menu- Final Thoughts

The ambiance, food quality and price definitely work. This menu will be offered from 21st November through December and is £28 per person.

Chi Kitchen opens for breakfast and serves delicious pan-Asian food throughout the day. The Group Consultant Chef is Ping Coombes, who is the 2014 Master Chef winner.

We had the opportunity to see Angela, the Restaurant Supervisor on both visits and commend her for guaranteeing excellent service too.

November 22, 2016 by: Sunny London

What British People Eat for Christmas

Before my first holiday trip to London, my family asked what British people eat for Christmas. I arrived in the beginning of January the first time I lived in London and didn’t stay an entire calendar year. So, I wasn’t actually sure how to answer everyone.

Would it be just like how it was depicted in ‘A Christmas Carol’? Do they really eat pheasant or goose now? Was that just the Victorian era or true English tradition?

I relied heavily on my English husband (London born) for ideas to share with you, as well as a little research. After living here four years, what British people eat for Christmas still has me curious. I enjoy some of their holiday foods and drinks. Others- not so much!

While no person’s Christmas dinner plate is ever the same, there are some general items that you see at a British holiday meal.

And of course, there’s an entire experience just in London Pubs at Christmas that you’ll want to know too…

If you’re British, be sure to add your additions and thoughts to what British people eat for Christmas in the comments below or on the YouTube videos. American friends, what other things about living in London as an American expat would you like to know?

If you’re visiting London for the holidays, the blog has tons of things to do for Christmas. There is also a very popular feature about Christmas Differences Between the UK and USA. Be sure to subscribe to the blog’s newsletter so you don’t miss any fun events in London or expat advice too!

What’s on your Christmas dinner plate this year? Do you eat a meal at home or book a table at a restaurant? Do you have the same selection annually or does it depend on how your family is traveling?

November 13, 2016 by: Sunny London

Christmas in London- What You Can’t Do in NYC

What’s the difference between Christmas in London or Christmas in NYC? I’m sure there are plenty of things that are the same. However, after living as an American expat in London for several years and being married to a British bloke, I’ve learned some fun things to do for the holidays in London that you can’t find anywhere else. From Christmas markets to drinks that the English love, I share a bit about the London holiday season life below.

Of course there is great shopping in London and New York City. That’s not something I show in the video. Both cities also have great deals after Christmas too. In fact, just two years ago London really starting getting in to the Black Friday spirit. Now, for whatever reason they justify here, there are some serious deals the day after Thanksgiving. Why retailers have tried to copy the massive shopping crowd hysteria that happens on this day in the US makes no sense to me.

Take a few minutes to see what makes London unique during the Christmas holiday.

The Sunny News YouTube channel, shares even more advice for things to do and what you’ll need to know about London. This includes safety tips, pub advice, and a shopping guide. The blog also has a Guide for Americans Visiting London which is a collection of the top experiences I recommend. You’ll definitely want to bookmark it and visit the Pinterest boards created to help trip planning too.

It would be great if you were able to add your ideas about unique activities in London that I didn’t include in the video. Also, make sure to leave your ideas about Christmas things to do in New York City that you can’t do in London in the comments below. For more cultural differences, I’ve also written a blog feature on ‘Christmas Differences Between the US and UK.’

November 24, 2015 by: Sunny London

The BEST Places for Ice Skating in London for Christmas

How do you decide where to go ice skating in London for Christmas?

If you aren’t from London and are visiting for the holidays, it can be very hard to decide what to do when you visit this fabulous town.

That’s why this year I went to all the places I think are the best locations for ice skating in London and have them here for you!

Ice Skating in London: Tower of London

One of the last to open during the Christmas season, the Tower of London could be considered the most dangerous place to go ice skating in London.

Ok, ok, that’s just a silly joke because this location is historically a place of torture.

As you can see, it’s a very large rink, and the surrounding views are stunning. Not only can skaters whiz by the Tower of London every time they circle the rink, but also they can see the Mayor of London’s office, the Gherkin and The Shard. This year the Tower of London Ice Rink is open until January 3, 2016.

There is a cafe located nearby called The PieMan, so if you work up an appetite you can grab food too.

Ice Skating in London: Somerset House Ice Rink

In my Periscope broadcast of Somerset House Ice Rink, I called it the ‘most fashionable’ place to go ice skating in London. This is because the location hosted Fashion Week from 2009 up until February 2015.

During the day, people skating around the rink can see the stunning Somerset House courtyard and the beautiful Fortnum and Mason sponsored Christmas tree. It’s also right near Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery so if you’re just in London for the day, it’s easy to pair it with other fun, free things to do in London.

In the evening, this rink hosts ‘Club Nights’, which are said to be some of the best international clubs and festivals. The Skate Lounge offers cocktails and hot chocolate, and there is a Skate School and a Polar Cub Club for kids.

Ice Skating in London: Eyeskate Ice Rink

While the rink at the London Eye is certainly the smallest of all the ones listed on the blog, it’s by far the most breathtaking at night.

It’s the centerpiece of ‘Frostival’ in the Southbank Centre are of London for Christmas.

For this reason, I would suggest making sure you give yourself enough time to enjoy all the surrounding festivities when you visit.

Eyeskate closes January 3, 2016.

Since I am super scared of ice skating myself, I suggest that if you’re going to visit Eyeskate either to actually skate or to take stunning pictures, that you also visit Bump. It’s only a minute or two walk from the London Eye, and it’s for four-wheelers. 😉

Ice Skating in London: Ski Zilertall Ice Rink

Everyone in London looks forward to Winter Wonderland, so it stands to reason that this ice rink is probably the ‘most popular’ during the holiday season. Of all the ice skating in London rinks, this one is certainly the most stereotypical of the ‘London attraction’ experience.

They have professional photographers who can take souvenir photos for you, and it’s super crowded during peak times. I suggest this location for thrill-seekers because there are also so many amusement rides at Winter Wonderland. If you aren’t going to pair your evening with those activities and a trip to the Bavarian Village, you probably want to consider another rink.

Ice skating sessions here last 50 minutes like nearly all the other rinks. Guests must arrive 20 minutes prior to their booking time. Winter Wonderland ends January 3, 2016.

Ice Skating in London: Swarovski Ice Rink

This ice skating location sits with a fabulous backdrop of the Natural History Museum. It’s very convenient from the South Kensington Underground Station, as you walk underground following the ‘Museum’ signs until you arrive at the rink.

The Café Bar has a bird’s-eye view of the rink and is open daily until the Ice Rink closes. It has a range of tea, coffee, hot chocolate, mulled wine, a variety of wines, beers and soft drinks. Other special offers are the Cream Tea Skate and Champagne Skate

Given its outside the Natural History Museum, I vote this location as the best for families and children because you can pair it with a free museum.

The Swarovski Rink at the Natural History Museum closes January 3, 2016.

Given its outside the Natural History Museum, I vote this location as the best for families and children because you can pair it with a free museum trip.

The Swarovski Rink at the Natural History Museum closes January 3, 2016.

Ice Skating in London: Ice Rink Canary Wharf

This is the only ice rink on this list that is not in Central London. It’s in the heart of Canary Wharf and is just a few minutes walk from both the Canary Wharf Underground and DLR stations.

It’s billed as ‘London’s 5 Star Ice Rink.’ Canary Wharf has London’s only skate path, which is a ‘glittering trail of fairy-lit trees beneath Canary Wharf’s soaring towers’. I agree. It’s the most luxurious experience of all the ones listed on the blog.

Attached to the rink is a fantastic outdoor viewing terrace where people can sit and watch the skaters. Also part of this rink is The Tasting Room.

It has sharing menus, sandwiches, and cheese fondue. The venue offers winter cocktails, wines, draught and craft beers and is available for private parties.

For the 2015 holiday season, Ice Rink Canary Wharf is open until February 27.

Personally, I wouldn’t mix my drinks with ice, but if you think you can handle them both, please tag me in your video on Instagram!

Before you book your tickets online (as most of the locations require that), check to see how far in advance you must arrive before your session. One does suggest 40 minutes. Some of their prices fluctuate based on peak times.

So, those are the Sunny in London blog picks for the best places for ice skating in London for Christmas. Where do you recommend? Have you been to these ice rinks? Or, are you like me and you prefer to leave your skates safely here and watch all the other brave individuals…

For ways to save money on attractions in London, be sure to spend a few minutes on my London Pass section. The blog has has a very popular Guide to London, Best Things to Do in London for Christmas, and Advice for Winter Wonderland available to you too!

November 20, 2015 by: Sunny London

5 Tips for How to Survive the Holidays as an Expat

As an expat living in London, sometimes it is tough celebrating the ‘most wonderful time of the year’ when you’re in a foreign place. That’s why I have written a list of strategies for how to survive the holidays as an expat.

You’re not going to find all the answers to every problem expats encounter during the holidays here. However, I will list five strategies for you that have worked for me to make the holidays spirited and happy in another country.

Maybe these tips will help you, and hopefully you can add some more. I feel it helps expats to share ideas either in

1. How to Survive the Holidays as an Expat: Embrace the Place

You wouldn’t have left your home country if you weren’t adventurous and excited about other cultures and traveling. Remember that during the holidays.

Embrace all that your new location has to offer. For example, this year for the holidays in London I’ve decided to spend several days a week in November and December seeing sights and doing activities that I could never experience in Florida.

In October I researched when all the neighborhoods and streets I love were turning on their Christmas lights and having launch parties to celebrate the event. I tried to get to each one on the day it happened or soon after.

Next, I focused on ice skating. There’s no way I’m going to step on to the ice myself. However, ice skating seems like a fun (and definitely romantic) holiday activity. Seeing people enjoy it is very exciting to me.

In my home state of Florida, there are no outdoor ice skating rinks, even in December.

My research lead me to several other things to do in London for Christmas that I didn’t know about (including the Hogwarts in the Snow Harry Potter Studio Tour). Many of the activities I found are free too!

2. How to Survive the Holidays as an Expat: Get Up and MeetUp

I’ve always been keen to gather expats together for social events. Most recently I organized a fun, casual dinner for 7 American expats I’ve met as a London blogger.

We agreed to leave the cameras outside and met at Dirty Bones in Kingly Court of Carnaby in London last week.

During our evening, we talked about being married to British men, UK Schools vs American, benefits of acquiring UK citizenship, and confusing things British people say and do. BTW American friends from dinner, I still can’t figure out the different interpretations you suggested for closing an email to a British person… ‘Kind regards’?

If aren’t a blogger and haven’t connected with people through that pathway, you should investigate Internations. I’ve attended a few of their events and definitely recommend it to expats in large cities all over the world.

You might find it’s more for single people, but if you’re an expat living on your own in another country this will likely be your target audience for friends, so give it a go!

3. How to Survive the Holidays as an Expat: Get Crackin’

It helps to learn about your new culture as quickly as possible. While you’re making friends from international backgrounds, don’t forget to integrate the new ideas of your resident country. Learn about how people celebrate Christmas or other holidays in this town and see if you would like to adopt any of these activities as new traditions.

In England, I’ve become quite intrigued with Christmas Crackers, even though at first I thought they were really silly.

4. How to Survive the Holidays as an Expat: Make and Bake

After three long years of waiting for all my personal belongings to arrive in London, I will finally reunite with the contents of my townhouse in the US in mid-January 2016. I’ll write a blog post about the international shipping process later, as well as a review of the international shipping company I am using. I’ll include why I’ve waited three years to send all of my items in these blog posts too.

When my 45+ boxes arrive in London, I will finally have all my baking pans and dishes that I used faithfully every year in America before I moved to London.

This means next year I will be baking all my favourite Italian Christmas cookie recipes for my husband (Mr. Sunny), his family, my friends, and all his work mates.

If you like to bake and cook, this is a great way to make the holidays special no matter where you are. Yes, you’ll have to struggle a bit to find all the ingredients to which you are accustom, but along the way you may learn about some new ones that might spice up your life too!

Now, I just have to hope that all my roasting pans and cookie sheets fit inside my tiny London oven!

5. How to Survive the Holidays as an Expat: Find Your Flicks

When I’m not out exploring London’s Christmas events and I want to avoid the holiday crowds, I watch Christmas movies from America in my flat so I can be in the holiday spirit.

Unlike in America, Christmas specials and movies aren’t on often in London, so I have purchased many American Christmas Movies through Amazon UK. I lost count how many times last year Mr. Sunny watched Fred Claus with me. It’s my favourite.

How to Survive the Holidays as an Expat: Final Thoughts?

Sunny friends, those are a few tips that work for me during the holidays living as an American expat in London. Since I really do believe that it helps to make virtual friends in the expat community, I’d love it for you to leave your strategies below.

Please make sure to include where you are from and where you are living. I look forward to everything you will share!

You can find more of the blog’s Christmas features here. There are also many posts on Expat Life too, plus one that includes an international shipping discount. If you’re interested in a weekly newsletter about London and don’t want to miss any Sunny news, you can subscribe here.
Happy Holidays!

November 15, 2015 by: Sunny London

Hogwarts in the Snow- 5 Reasons You MUST Go!

Have you seen Hogwarts in the Snow?

If you love Christmas and you’re a true Harry Potter fan, then you must get to the Warner Bros Studio Tour outside of London during the holiday season!

It officially opened on November 13th. Luckily, I had the chance to visit the very next morning. Since I have already reviewed the London Harry Potter Studio Tour on the blog and also created The Dueling Challenge: Harry Potter London vs Orlando, which compares both attractions, I returned to the London Studio to see the Harry Potter holiday spirit.

My friend and I spent the entire recommended three and a half hours touring the attraction, which is actually about an hour longer than I spent there the first time I went with Mr. Sunny in the summer. She and I just didn’t want to leave!

For this reason, I recommend that you go online and book your tickets before the festivities end on Sunday, January 31, 2016. There are also five other reasons you must go to see Hogwarts in the Snow…

Hogwarts in the Snow- The Great Hall

When the doors open to The Great Hall, you see all the tables decorated in festive food for the holidays.

They are the actual items used for the films. In fact, you learn during the tour that they originally tried using real food for scenes, but after several days of filming they realised that the food was a bit foul.

For a few seconds when you’re in The Great Hall, they light the Christmas pudding on fire. I caught a shot of it in the YouTube video you can see below. Yes, the flames are real.

Christmas trees are in nearly every corner of The Great Hall, and the costumes are spirited too.

Hogwarts in the Snow- Seasonal Sets

Once you finish your time in The Great Hall, you are on your own to explore the sets, costumes and special effects areas of the studio. Several of the film sets have also been adorned with holiday cheer.

Hogwarts in the Snow- See Snow

Once you depart through the snow drifts stationed in Diagon Alley, you can enjoy some Butterbeer in the snow.

In the area outside between the two sound stages where you can find the Knight Bus and Harry’s house on Privet Drive, it is snowing.

The YouTube video at the end shows the sneaky secret to what’s actually happening in this outside area.

Hogwarts in the Snow- The Christmas Covered Castle

After your journey through the Creatures area and other special effects departments, you have a chance to see several models used for the film.

And that’s when something else starts to happen.

Moving up this corridor, you start to notice the scent of Evergreen filling the air. The gorgeous Christmas smell intensifies as you move up the ramp. Eventually you reach an outlook area where a stunning view of the giant scale model of Hogwarts that was used for filming shots over the school.

The castle is covered in ice effects and snow, which artists added by hand.

It’s easy to spend a whole half of an hour taking pictures and walking around all the levels of the castle. During this time, you’ll notice the lighting change too. The idea is to show guests of Hogwarts in the Snow a serene scene that takes place from sunrise to sunset.

Hogwarts in the Snow- Santa’s List

Once you peel yourself away from the castle, you are directed to a magical wand room. Every actor from the films has a box which keeps his/her wand stored safely.

With that final temptation of being able to leave the muggle world with your own Harry Potter wand, you enter the Gift Shop.

Fans have the chance to buy every item imaginable connected to the Harry Potter Books and the Harry Potter Films.

They have Maurauders Maps, items for Lord Voldemort, and Mugs for Muggles. I think I even saw an Invisibility Cloak.

The Harry Potter Merchandise you can buy or put on your Christmas list is endless. My friend made sure to pick up a Christmas ornament for herself as a keepsake from our fun day. I think Mr. Sunny would like this beer tankard. Don’t you?

I received press passes for my visit, but you can learn more about ordering tickets here. This is a holiday event near London that you just don’t want to miss! If you can’t make it to London for the Christmas season, grab a glass of wine or champagne like me, and take a look inside the studio here by watching here…

Have you visited the Harry Potter Studio Tour, Sunny friends? What was your favourite part of the attraction?

November 12, 2015 by: Sunny London

Fun, FREE Christmas Things To Do in London!

Finding free Christmas things to do in London is not as hard as you might think. In fact, when you live in one of the world’s most expensive cities, you are constantly looking out for discounts or free events and opportunities.

For Americans or other travellers to London who have a limited amount of time for a holiday, it’s nice to have a guide to direct you to ways to save money and effort on research. London has so much to offer during the most wonderful time of the year. Quite a few things will put you in the Christmas spirit while not costing anything!

To keep it simple, this guide is arranged by area. Further, all the suggestions are within walking distance of each other and can easily be seen in one day. For the most part, the focus is on the West End and surrounding borders.

Fun and Free Christmas Things to Do in London

Christmas Things to Do in London: Covent Garden

Naturally, we’ll start with the area that’s my blog favourite. Packed with theatres, shopping, restaurants, bars and hotels, Covent Garden offers loads of activities year-round. The free Christmas activities range from the obvious to hidden neighborhood treasures.

The decorations in the Piazza contribute to some of London’s most popular Instagram moments. This year’s theme is Mistletoe, which means the piazza is truly lovely!

After strolling through the Jubilee Market and Apple Market, you can spend some time taking selfies in front of the Covent Garden Christmas tree and watching the very entertaining street performers.

In the past there have been Santa’s reindeer on display for a series of Saturdays. I’ll be sure to update this list when they publish this year’s dates.

Walking North from the Piazza, you’ll find St. Martin’s Courtyard. Aside from numerous restaurants, you’ll be able to see the floral displays of the Covent Garden Academy of Flowers.

Just like the tree and decorations in the Piazza, the arrangements outside create fantastic picture opportunities.

If you are in fact Christmas shopping, I highly recommend one of their classes on making flower arrangements as a gift for a girl who ‘has it all’. Of all the workshops and courses I have taken in London, this class ranks as the best.

Christmas Things to Do in London: Trafalgar Square

In comparison to the Christmas tree in Rockefeller Center, the tree in Trafalgar Square isn’t quite as grand. Nonetheless, visiting it is something I make sure to do several times during the holiday season.

Like Covent Garden, you are likely to see street performers dressed in holiday style. And, if you look very, very closely (in the bottom right), you might even catch a glimpse of Santa Claus.

Finally, there are Christmas Carol services that you can watch for free on evenings during December.

Christmas Things to Do in London: Carnaby Street

If you want your list of free Christmas Things to Do in London to reflect a more eclectic vibe, Carnaby is the area you need to be. Their holiday lights officially illuminated the sky on November 12th. The dangling disco balls are dazzling.

Christmas Things to Do in London Carnaby Lights 2015

Just around the corner from Carnaby Street is Foubert’s Place where you will find Choccywoccydoodah. This famous chocolatier has its own successful reality television show. If you take one look at the chocolate cakes, yes this all chocolate in the pictures below, you can see why.

Each year I make a few trips in to the store just to see the gorgeous displays. Again, it’s a great place to pick up fantastic chocolate for gifts. Or, if your diet is waiting until New Year, upstairs has a small but divine chocolate cafe.

Christmas Things to Do in London: Oxford Street

Not too far north of Carnaby is Oxford Street. This street is famous for many retail chains and countless red busses that travel tirelessly under all the strands of Christmas lights.

Aside from gazing at the glistening street lights, for free you can also view the displays at Selfridges.

free-christmas-things-to-do-in-london-selfridges (2)

Some people think Santa’s Grotto at Selfridges is the best in London. However, if you venture inside the department store, you’re very likely to spend money so I’ll refrain from pictures here in the spirit of the promotion of free Christmas things to do in London. 😉

Christmas Things to Do in London: Regent Street

Finally, the last stop is the biggest shopping street in Europe, Regent Street. Their seasonal events and decorations are unrivaled by any London neighborhood, in my opinion. From the Traffic Free Sunday’s in July, to the NFL in London Street Party, Regent Street promotes London love all year long.

Something you can do for free on Regent Street is visit Hamleys. At the entrance you are always greeted with something spectacular. The last time I visited I was showered with bubbles.

The Regent Street location has been there since 1881, so its absolutely iconic. It’s the oldest toy shop in the world, so it’s naturally always crowded.

Free Christmas Things to Do in London: Final Thoughts

When I have a leisurely day in London during the holidays, that’s the list of activities I do. I’m sure other areas have fun options, but the ones above are close to each other and offer beautiful picture opportunities, including some of London’s most iconic images.

What’s on your list of free Christmas things to do in London that you would recommend?

November 10, 2015 by: Sunny London

Advice for Visiting Winter Wonderland in London

Are you one of the thousands of people who plan on visiting Winter Wonderland in London this year?

It’s certainly on the top of many people’s list of Things to Do in London at Christmas, including me.

This year it opens at 5pm on Friday, November 20th. Hours after that are 10am-10pm daily (except Christmas Day) until January 3, 2016. Admission to the famous London holiday attraction in Hyde Park is free. However, the rides and food are not.

Having been to Winter Wonderland in London several times, I want to share some advice that will help you with your visit.

Winter Wonderland in London Advice: How to Save Money

While you can enjoy all the sights and smells of Winter Wonderland for free, food, drinks and amusement rides cost money.

You must purchase tickets in advance for Ski Zillertal Ice Rink, Magical Ice Kingdom, Giant Wheel, Zippos Christmas Circus, Cirque Berserk, and Bar Ice. There are a few dates that offer non-peak rates for tickets. They are November 23, 24, 25, 26 and 29, 30 of December.

Since that is a very small list of dates, you might need another method to save money. Therefore, you should decide how much you are willing to spend at the attraction prior to visiting Winter Wonderland in London.

Rides for adults (other than anything mentioned already above) are generally £3 each, and you need to use cash to purchase tokens for them. You can’t buy tokens anywhere in advance.

A money saving suggestion is to go to a cash machine before you get to the attraction and withdraw the amount you are willing to spend. Stick to your budget, even though the rides and food can present huge temptations to over indulge.

Winter Wonderland in London Advice: Skip Saturday

Aside from those planning strategies, you can also do a few more things in advance of your visit. Foremost, plan to go during the week. Saturdays are the busiest for the attraction, so avoid them at all costs, unless you want to be in line with all the other minions!

One thing I have found helpful for visiting Winter Wonderland in London is following their Twitter account. Each year they do a great job of notifying followers about the attraction’s attendance situation. I have seen many Saturday tweets indicating that they closed entrances due to Hyde Park being at full capacity. They also announce status changes to that on Twitter too.

Winter Wonderland in London Advice: Mobile Madness

If you do visit the attraction in Hyde Park during these busy times, not only will you also deal with extreme crowds, but also will likely not have mobile service.

On several visits I haven’t been able to upload videos to Instagram or other social media accounts because of jammed networks.

You might have a tough time using your mobile phone, so consider a old-school backup plan when arranging to meet friends and decide a meeting time and place before you get there.

Winter Wonderland in London Advice: Don’t Drink and Ride

It could be hypocritical that I am going to suggest not to drink and ride while there, considering one of my favourite spots to hit is The Carousel Bar.

As an electronic music fan, I spend a lot of time at this spinning drink disco each year when visiting Winter Wonderland in London. But, I don’t really drink too much for fear of getting too dizzy.

Further, the rides at Hyde Park can be very intense. In fact, as a Florida girl who worked at Universal Studios and frequented Disney World, I feel the rides at Winter Wonderland match those of Orlando’s parks in terms of their ability to throw around your body.

My husband, the blog beer drinking expert, also wants to share some drinking advice here too. He wants everyone to know that if you drink too many steins at the Bavarian Village, you could risk the chance of leaving your stein glass behind and losing your £5 deposit that’s incorporated in to the cost of your first beer. (Yes, he’s had more than one when we visit.)

Maybe that’s because a few sneaky sips disappeared when he made a trip to the loo?

Winter Wonderland in London Advice: Dressed to Chill

Of course, you won’t have any fun if you don’t dress warm enough for the winter temperatures we experience during the holiday season in London. You can’t just rely on ‘Proper Coffee’ all night. 😉

You want to make sure your outfit keeps you warm, is practical for rides and looks great for selfies.

Here is a fun suggestion below for one Winter Wonderland outfit that will do all of these.

Black Reiss Leather Jacket, Double Layer Thermal Top, Reiss Low-rise Skinny Jeans, Michael Kors Boots, Fairy Lights Beanie Hat, and a Kate Spade Backpack.

What do you think, Sunny friends? Are you ready for Winter Wonderland in London now? What advice would you suggest, if you have been there? What other questions can I answer for you?

Don’t miss the 10 Best Things To Do at Christmas in London, which includes advice on How to Ride the Giant Wheel at Winter Wonderland. Finally, if you’re trying to decide between Christmas in London or Christmas in NYC, watch this…

October 29, 2015 by: Sunny London

Christmas Afternoon Tea at Conrad London St James

With so many hotels and restaurants offering a Christmas afternoon tea in London, how can you possibly make a decision on where to go?

Last year, I was invited to and enjoyed so many that I even hit three afternoon teas in one week!

Needless to say, the Christmas season left me feeling a bit heavy but with a strong idea of what London has to offer when it comes to Christmas afternoon tea.

While you may think it’s a bit premature to announce this year’s stand out afternoon tea for the holiday season, I am going to do it- right now.

If you are looking for an afternoon tea during the holidays that captures the essence of the range of the culinary experience, you need to book a table for the Conrad London St James Snow Queen Afternoon Tea offered in Emmeline’s Lounge.

I had the opportunity to enjoy this Christmas afternoon tea at the press launch recently with blogger friends Aftab at Fresh and Fearless and Suze from Luxury Columnist.

Last year, you may remember the #LDNBLoggersTea hosted at Conrad London St James, which was a huge London blogger event. While at the Christmas afternoon tea preview, I spent some time speaking with Chef Zoe Wager, the Head Pastry Chef at the luxury hotel.

After seeing her exquisite work two years in a row, I feel confident in saying that she, Sunny friends, is the Queen of the Christmas Afternoon Tea in London.

Why?

She masterfully uses her culinary skills to not only create exquisite food combinations but also tell a story with her work.

When I interviewed her last year regarding how she approached the competitive Christmas afternoon tea offerings in London, she indicated she wanted the tea to represent the feeling of looking out a snow covered window.

This year, when Chef Zoe came to my table, I was honoured once again by her eagerness to talk. Immediately, I asked her about the noticeable difference in this year’s Christmas afternoon tea against last year’s- the colour. Knowing her depth of thought she puts in to this luxury hotel afternoon tea, I asked her to tell me this year’s story.

She immediately indicated that colour was a bit of her inspiration. Chef Zoe wants to avoid the cliche Christmas snowmen, reindeer and Santa Claus this year. Instead, she felt guided by the Snow Queen, an original fairy tale written by Hans Christian Anderson. This story centers on the struggle between good and evil.

To the novice eye, she may appear to have jumped on the Frozen marketing sleigh.

However, the Snow Queen story is about an evil troll who makes a magic mirror which distorts the appearance of everything it reflects. How? It magnifies the ugly and bad, rather than showing the good and beautiful aspects of people.

One might argue there’s a metaphoric connection with the mirror and the effects of too much champagne consumption. 😉

Rather than labour through the rest of the story details, I want to show how every bite of the Conrad London St James Snow Queen Afternoon Tea tells this story through food and ambiance.

While we were there, Emmeline’s Lounge was transformed in to a fairy tale atmosphere with a mystical indigo lighting.

Did this disturb our pictures?

That, perhaps, depends on which interpretation of the mirror you see. 😉

As the servers floated through the room, they shared more selections from the hotel’s Christmas afternoon tea. Again, we were often served the story through reflections, showing how Chef Zoe breaks the Snow Queen’s magic mirror into icy blue sugar shards…

This Christmas afternoon tea at the Conrad London St James is not one to miss if you want to experience holiday food served with a story and incredible luxury ambiance. To transcend yourself in to the Christmas spirit of a winter wonderland fairy tale, this hotel (which has excellent ratings on TripAdvisor) is where you should go.

The Snow Queen Christmas Afternoon Tea menu includes:

Selection of Savouries

London cured smoked salmon blini, caviar, lemon creme fraiche
Mint tartlet of cropwell bishop stilton, poached pear and walnuts
Prawn cocktail, marie rose
Selection of finger sandwiches

Cakes and Pastries

Snowstorm
Coconut cream, mint macaroon, candy floss
The Magic Mirror
Salted butter shortbread, yogurt cream, frosted blueberries, sugar shards
Snow Queen’s Sceptre
Chocolate and pearl sponge, praline ganache dipped in chocolate, snoflake lace
Palace Snowflakes
Blackcurrant and cardamom cake, crushed glittering meringue, silver snowflake
Blackberry Kisses
Creme Patisserie and blackberries

Freshly Baked Plain and Raisin Scones
Served with Devonshirt clotted cream, homemade strawberry jam and mix berries curd

Aside from a selection of teas, for £55 a person, there is also free flowing champagne. It’s important to note that each table has a 1 hour and 30 minutes time allocation so guests don’t get too entranced in the winter fairy tale. The Snow Queen Christmas Afternoon Tea is offered November 23 – February 11.

Which Christmas afternoon tea in London inspires you, Sunny friends? What’s on your holiday agenda? If you need suggestions for this year’s Christmas season, don’t miss my Top 10 BEST Things to Do In London at Christmas list.

October 25, 2015 by: Sunny London

The 10 BEST Things to Do in London at Christmas

What are 10 of the best things to do in London at Christmas? The list of possibilities is quite extensive. After all, Charles Dickens invented Father Christmas, didn’t he? 😉

Ok, ok, that’s a bit big, but really, when you think about the spirit of Christmas and the whole idea of gift giving and the celebration of the event, London is absolutely one of the places in the world that you want to be.

So what are the things to do in London at Christmas that MUST be on your list of activities? Let me show you, Sunny friends…

Things to Do in London at Christmas: Winter Wonderland

As a girl who grew up in Daytona Beach, Florida and spent tons of time at Disney World, I can safely say that you should ‘Let it Go!’ when it comes to your reservations about Winter Wonderland rides in London at Christmas.

In fact, if you ask me, the rides at Winter Wonderland are more exciting than those at Disney World. Scout’s honour! That’s if you’re interested in being flipped and tipped. It’s my favourite holiday activity, as you’ll see in this video.

Make sure if you are going to Winter Wonderland and want to make it extra special, that you watch this year’s video which outlines all the changes that have happened since the pandemic and what you need to do before you go.

Things to Do in London at Christmas: Ice Skating

Another fun activity that you will find in many festive Northern climate cities during the holidays is ice skating. In London, during the holidays there are many places to slide across the ice (hopefully on your skates and not your bum!).

You can join the crowds at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland or visit Somerset House. Other options for ice skating in London include: Broadgate Ice Rink, Canary Wharf Ice Rink, Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink, Ice Skating at Wembley Park, Natural History Museum Ice Rink, and the Tower of London Ice Rink.

Things to Do in London at Christmas: Shopping

Of course, there’s the obvious things to do in London at Christmas, which is shopping. To keep it simple, you’ll want to stay focused on the shops on Regent Street, Carnaby Street, and Seven Dials. Make sure you watch out for the shopping nights in these areas because they offer discounts to customers that are really valuable!

I’ll be sure to announce the shopping nights in my newsletter. In fact, I already sent the Seven Dials Christmas Shopping party with 20% discount information to subscribers. To make sure you don’t miss the other ones, subscribe here.

Things to Do in London at Christmas: Afternoon Tea

Who is able to visit London and skip afternoon tea? Not me!

There are many hotels that pride themselves each year on their festive Christmas afternoon teas. This year, you may wish to visit the Conrad St. James Snow Queen Afternoon Tea. It’s offered from November 23 2015- February 11 2016. I had the chance to preview it in October. My review will thoroughly explain why I choose it for this year’s Queen of the Christmas Afternoon Tea!

Although, that afternoon tea is certainly riveled by the One Aldwych Hotel’s long-standing Charlie and the Chocolate Factory inspired afternoon tea, which will be offered at least until the remainder of this year.

Popular Christmas afternoon teas from 2014 include the Corinthia Hotel and the Sofitel St James, who offered the Buche de Noel French inspired tea in honour of the hotel’s French ownership.

Things to Do in London at Christmas: Hogwarts in the Snow

One of the newest iconic things to do in London at Christmas is visiting the Warner Bros Studio Tour. From November 13, 2015 – January 31, 2016 the ‘Hogwarts in the Snow’ tour is offered. Iconic sets are decorated for festive scenes, the Great Hall is lined with trees, and the Hogwarts castle model is covered in a blanket of filmmaking snow.

Unfortunately, the Christmas dinner in the ‘Great Hall’ for December 3, 2015 is already sold out, Sunny friends. Make sure you read my blog post on what the studio tour involves before heading to Watford, London.

Things to Do in London at Christmas: Charles Dickens Museum

Visiting the Charles Dickens Museum is a great activity any time of the year. Aside from touring the inside of one of Dickens’ homes, the museum has year-round activities for literary lovers. They offer Dickensian Walks, Costumed Tours, and a reading group. You can read my review of the Charles Dickens Museum to learn more about what’s inside for you.

Things to Do in London at Christmas: Elf

Just a few streets away from the Charles Dickens Museum is the Dominion Theatre on Tottenham Court Road. From now until January 2, 2016 the show based on the 2003 hit film starring Will Farrell is running in the West End. You can see a trailer of the show here.

Things to Do in London at Christmas: See Santa

Seeing Santa at Christmas is everyone’s dream. There are many places around London this is possible. At Westfield London you can climb aboard Santa’s sleigh for a cinematic adventure. Santa’s Snowflake Grotto this year at Kew Gardens will have dancing lit-up fountains, a choir of holly bushes and a scented fire garden.

Royal Albert Hall has children’s tours with Victorian-themed stories and activities. If you’re a Florida girl like me and sometimes prefer a tropical climate over a snow storm, Santa’s Grotto at the Rain Forest Cafe might be something you consider too.

However, I’m told one of the best experiences for adults and children hoping to see Santa is at Leeds Castle, but that is a bit outside of London.

Things to Do in London at Christmas: IceBar London

If you’re thinking that it’s not appealing to subject yourself to -5° Celsius on purpose when it’s already very cold outside, you obviously haven’t been to the IceBar in London.

Soon after Mr. Sunny proposed to me, we visited the IceBar on a cold night in December. It features a ‘cold sensory experience where the walls, bar, table and even your own personal glass are made from Torne River ice which is harvested from the pristine winter wonderland of Jukkasjärvi in Northern Sweden.’ We also stayed for dinner after enjoying the subzero drinking experience. You can read more about my thoughts on the food and review for the Icebar. Mr. Sunny and I highly recommend it! It’s a great place to meet up with friends or even include on the list of places you’ll visit on your work’s Christmas night out.

Things to Do in London at Christmas: Drink Beer and Mulled Wine

Finally, something the British people do year round is drink. So, the holidays means you can enjoy festive ales at pubs while you’re sitting by the fireplace at your favourite local. You can also experience the traditional autumn/holiday beverage, mulled wine (AKA ‘Viking Blood’).

Ok, before you panic and feel like I’ve drained all the fun out of Christmas with that last picture, let me clarify that mulled wine is made with a recipe of red wine, various mulling spices and raisins. It’s not a drink for me. The smell is quite strong. However, it seems to be quite popular with everyone else in London at Christmas time.

If you haven’t visited the Sunny in London recommended Pub Crawls yet, make sure you do that too. Mr. Sunny and his father (both life-long Londoners) also recommend The Good Pub Guide 2019.

Things to Do in London at Christmas: Shopping Guide

If you’re visiting London and need shopping advice, you can watch the videos below. For printable maps of the areas I recommend, visit here.

Things to Do in London at Christmas: Your List?

That’s a quick list of my must see and things to do in London at Christmas. What do you suggest, Sunny friends? Don’t miss the 2016 video on ‘Christmas Things to Do in London That You Can’t Do in NYC‘ on the Sunny News YouTube channel!

Please leave your thoughts, experiences and questions in the comments below. Of course, if you found this valuable, I’d love it if you pinned it or shared it on your other social networks!

Happy Holidays to you!

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