Independence Day

The day after my Thames walk with May (see previous post), I decided to independently explore the antique and vintage markets of East London. I'd tried to rope several friends into going with me, but no one was available. With the city at my fingertips and my time here dwindling, I decided I need to start taking more advantage of the million activities around, even if I have to do so alone. Besides, I've liked having these mini independence days in the past. 

To get to the markets, I took the Northern Line to Moorgate and set off for a brief walk. Old Spitafields Market is covered and a bit obscured from view. I knew right away when I'd found it!

Stylish mannequin  

Lots of jewellery

And more jewellery

Trendy hats

PLENTY to eat

Homemade donuts

I wandered around, stopping to take in the sights, smells, and sounds. I picked up a little souvenir for a friend and a birthday gift for my mom. I wandered for long enough that food vendors started calling out that all food was half price. Score! 

With my belly full and fingers sticky, I left Spitafields and wandered a bit farther to Brick Lane. Spitafields was one giant covered market, but the area around Brick Lane had a bunch of little underground vintage stores and markets in addition to a bigger food market (with famous curry). 

Entry to an underground area

Can you get any more hipster? 

I thoroughly enjoyed looking through other people's trash and treasures. As I left, I made sure to pick up some half price chicken kebab. Perfect post-run, pre-dinner snack!

The walk home took me past some cool (and different) residential structures. I especially liked the way that different coloured doors and windows were side-by-side.

I enjoyed the feeling of independence as I headed south towards Southwark. Sure, living in an empty house in a foreign city is obviously an independent experience, but somehow "traveling" somewhere outside of my daily routine (even when it's just across the River) feels even more empowering. It left me feeling very excited for the trip I had planned to Oxford for the coming week (see upcoming post!).