Lifestyle and Shopping in London

London offers an exceptional expat lifestyle for those that can afford to enjoy themselves in this expensive city at the centre of the world. It is in general an exceptionally sociable lifestyle, as the poor weather forces people to mingle, and the range of dining and entertainment options are virtually limitless.

 

The nightlife in London is great too, with heaving dance floors intimate music lounges and jazz bars. The West End has a high concentration of bars, clubs and restaurants while Soho is one of the trendiest and coolest places to drink. This is where most of London’s gay bars and clubs can be found. Notting Hill and Portobello Road areas are good for a night out while the Camden and Angel in the north and Clapham and Brixton down south have great pubs and live music venues. The West End is where one can find to Broadway-style theatre shows while Covent Garden is home to the Royal Opera and the Royal Ballet. Classical music lovers should head to the Albert Hall. Other non-commercial theatres include the world-renowned National Theatre, the Royal Shakespeare Company, the Globe Theatre and the Old Vic.

 

Of course London is one of the shopping capitals of the world. It has awesome fashion stores, along Oxford and Regent streets with big brands like Gap, Zara, Topshop, and Benetton. Music freaks can head into Virgin or HMV while market junkies should head for Camden in North London and Portobello Market. Food fans will make a pilgrimage to Borough Market adjacent to London Bridge for its incredible range of organic foods and homemade products.

> Guide to London restaurants and the dining scene