Rachel is my cousin and is working in London at this time, This is her story:
What is your full name?
Rachel Lewis
How old are you?
26
Where are you from? and where do you live now?
I grew up in a village in North Dorest called Marnhull. I currently live in exciting London.
What do you do for work?
I work in Visualization for movies as a Junior shot creator. Before the film gets made working alongside a team of artist we will block out the cameras and lighting in 3D to create the sequences before shooting it with the actors.
What is your average day?
Not that exciting since lockdown. Pretty much go into my office turn on my PC and login to work for 9 hours! However, before lockdown it was a little more exciting. I would get to travel to the film studios where they shoot the movies. I would work in one of the offices on the previs then be able to walk around the the practical sets at lunch. It’s pretty amazing to be able to see what you work on the computer to see it in real life.
What is your favourite thing you have discovered in London?
Leake St, South Bank, London. It’s this really amazing tunnel where the walls and ceiling are covered with the most amazing graffiti art. Every inch of space is painted: entrances to the tunnels, ceilings, walls, railings, posts and gutters. The art is sometimes crazy and sometimes poignant graffiti. I love returning to this constantly changing canvas as the cycle of replacing one colourful scene with another is what happens here. It’s what makes the life and soul of the Leake Street Tunnel so captivating, and keeps you returning.
What’s the best hidden gem you have found?
The sky gardens.
London’s Highest Public Sky Garden is located right in the heart of the city at 20 Fenchurch Street. The Sky Garden London boasts spectacular 360-degree views with its three-story of the ultimate sub-tropical garden theme. The famous & enormous glass dome caters to London’s most exclusive social spaces, observation decks and an open-air terrace. If you do go although it is free I recommend booking in advance so not to avoid disappointment as it gets very busy.
Wheres the best grub?
Depends on your favorite. If you want a cuisine London does it. If like me you can never decide, I would recommend going to Camden market.
It’s best on Sunday when all the stalls are open. Something for everyone, literally, anyone. You can choose from one of the ranges of food stalls and have A pleasant stroll around the canal. Numerous food options which is a must see place while in London.
What inspired the move?
I have always dreamed of living in Big city. I have lived all over the UK but I mainly moved to London for work and I must say it has been one of my favorite places to live.
Why should people visit?
There is so much to do and I have yet to discover. London has been honed into a genuinely incredible city through its 2,000-year history. London is famous for its art, architecture, food and fashion, some of which it does better than anywhere else in the world. There is always something to do no matter what day of the week or what time.
What do you do for fun?
Arcade in O2 arena they have a number of pool tables arcade games and VR Mario Kart alongside the bowling alley.
I am an avid rock climber. I love bouldering and one of the best places to go in London is the Harrow rock climbing center.
The Bat and Ball is Westfield Stratford. Throwing down the finest craft beers, cocktails and freshest pizzas in the beating heart of Stratford. Beer Pong to Karaoke and brings good vibes only – 7 days a week.
If you love movies like me I recommend splashing out and going to Electric cinema. Clean, spacious, with table service. sat on a sofa with blankets I recommend curling up with a cookie sandwich!
I am a big fan of the gym and I have gone to a few different ones across London. But my personal favorite that I will go back to again and again is DW fitness at Tottenham court road. Along with it’s spa sauna and steam room.
What makes London unique?
London has so much to offer. And it’s perfect even if you are on a budget. The free galleries, number of markets, the walking tours the parks.
You must finish your night off with a spooky Jack the Ripper walking tour. The tours are free with an option to pay your host at the end paying what you think the tour was worth. They walk you around Whitechapel with immersive storytelling ending the your at Spitalfields indoor market (a must go during the day).
What is your top tip for travelling?
Book as much as possible in advance. Avoid Bank Holidays and School Breaks. Foresee Enough Time and Don’t Try to See Everything. Visit London’s FREE Attractions. Use Public Transport & Use Contactless Credit Card or Oyster Card.
Where do you want to go next?
As much as I love London and I will be sad to leave when I do I really think I will travel wherever work takes me. I would be keen to try going to Vancouver or maybe somewhere in the South of France or maybe even Japan. Regards where I end up London will always hold a special place in my heart.
195wanderer.com 