Excursion to Wales!

My last daytrip from London was to Wales! If you are staying in London for a week or more, I recommend that you visit Wales to see a different side of the UK. It is smaller and not as crowded as London so it's a nice change of pace and scenery.

Travel tip: You can take the train London Paddington Station to Cardiff Central Station (Wales). The trip is only 2-2.5hrs hours and it is worth it! You can buy your ticket at the station the day of your trip. 

Journey to Wales via train:

Train ticket:

Cardiff Central Station:

 

Wales is a country and it is part of the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland). It has a long and rich history stemming from the Celts through to the Roman occupation and from the medieval period to the modern day Union. It has withstood periods of conquest and peace. I remember I first learned about Wales in elementary school when I saw a t.v. program on Welsh castles. Since then, that's is most of what I knew until prior to my Eurotrip when I started reading and watching more travel shows about Wales. 

Prior to arriving, I didn't know what to expect before visiting Wales. All I knew mostly was that there were a lot of castles and one of the famous treats were Welsh cakes. After I arrived at Cardiff Central, I was delighted that the city was within walking distance and most attractions were near so I didn't have to take any public transportation. Right outside is the main street promenade which is lined with restaurants, cafes, and pubs. 

While walking on the main street I stumbled upon the Cardiff Market (since 1891) which was an enclosed area with food stalls and vendors. I had to go in so I could try the famous Welsh cakes that I read so much about. The market was pretty clean and organized unlike some market I've visited through my travels. They sold everything from cell phone covers to pastries. 

Cardiff Market:

 

Finally Welsh Cakes!!

 

  

  

Welsh cakes are a thin scone-like pastry traditionally filled with raisins and sprinkled with sugar. They are cooked on a heated flat top and usually have a golden brown crust color. They are perfect with afternoon tea or coffee. I was fortunate to try two types: traditional one with raisins and one with chocolate. The chocolate one was warm and gooey since I saw the lady had just prepared them. 

After indulging on the Welsh cakes, I made my way further on the main street to the famous Cardiff Castle. A castle has existed on the site since Roman times due to its strategic location and defensive position. There is a large outer wall that surrounds the perimeter of the castle. In the center, there is a Norman fortification which has survived the centuries. Near the western side lies the Bute which is 20th century addition which was inhabited by a Marquis. There is also a secret underground tunnel network below the outer walls that were used to shelter soldiers during the bombing of Britain in 1940. There is a small gift shop near the entrance where u can see original Roman walls and nice views of the Castle. 

Cardiff Castle:

 

Norman Fortress:

The Bute:

 

Underground Tunnel:

After exploring the castle, I wandered around the city. I stumbled upon some great Georgian and Victorian architecture. 

  

 

 

 

Cardiff National Art Museum:

 

Van Gogh Piece

Waterlillies piece by Monet

  

 Cardiff City Hall:

 

 

Welsh Government Buildings:

 

Cardiff University:

 

National War Memorial:

 

 

Millennium Stadium

Welsh Stew:

 

Cardiff was a great day trip getaway from London. It's quaint atmosphere and rich history make it a must-see in the UK. It is a very walkable city so you can see a lot just by exploring on foot. The people are friendly there and you will enjoy their hospitality. 

Stay tuned and my next post will be on my trip to San Antonio, Texas!! 

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If you would like any travel tips (sightseeing, cheap flight tickets, itineraries, or anything) please message me! 

Journey to Scotland Part II: Glasgow

Glasgow is the Second largest city in Scotland and is one of the most cosmopolitan. It's streets are lined with mostly Victorian architecture. 

Ticket & train journey to Glasgow:

The first area I stumbled upon was the George Square are which is surrounded by statues of famous Scotsman and city government buildings. They were setting up the area which would be the site of the 2014 Commonwealth Games (a week after I arrived). 

George Square:

 

 

My highlight was visiting the ancient Glasgow Cathedral. Built during the 12th century, it has withstood the Reformation and Independence movements. It is a towering testament of medieval cathedral engineering. It's sharp spires tower high and can be seen from miles away. It's green-colored roof is unique from other countless cathedrals I've seen throughout my European travels. I enjoyed walking and admiring the intricately carved interior and chapels within it's walls because there were few people inside. Unlike overcrowded churches like Westminster Abbey and Notre Dame, it allowed me to fully experience its austere and ancient ambiance. 

Glasgow Cathedral:

 

 

 

 

 

Nearby, spotted and discovered the Glasgow Necropolis (city of the dead) which was a massive cemetery on a huge hill which overlooks the city. There are many statues and sculptures within its walls.

Glasgow Necropolis:

 

 




After the cathedral, made my way to the City Centre. This area is the bustling main artery of Glasgow. This area is full of droves of locals and tourists, restaurants, cafes, and stores. It is a major contrast to the small medieval town feel of Edinburgh. If you enjoy the arts, fine dining, and shopping, you would enjoy Glasgow. As an art and history connoisseur, I searched for more historic sites, but found I was surrounded by mostly 19th-20th century buildings. Regardless, the buildings have been preserved and is still used today by businesses. If I had more time, I would've wandered to the Glasgow University area which I hear is filled with beautiful architecture, cafes, and unique eateries. 

City Centre:

Overall, my daytrip to Glasgow was interesting and I'm glad I saw another major city in Scotland away from Edinburgh. It is only a short ride away so I highly recommend you visit Glasgow! The city's main highlights are spread out so it's best to take public transportation to see everything (had to walk for 15-20 minutes from the City Centre to the cathedral). 

Next blog post will be on my daytrip to Wales! Stay tuned!!

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