London Lifestyle – London Office Buzz

Some of London’s finest coffee shops

The heartland of theatre, dining, shopping, and nightlife, the City of London has more to offer than anywhere in the world. The home of unique, artisan coffee shops, exquisite afternoon tea arrangements, and quirky menus designed by talented chefs, makes London the place to stop for the ultimate coffee shop experience, after you’ve taken in your favourite tourist sites. For a taste of what’s on offer check out these six incredible coffee shops in London.

1. South Bank: Westminster Bridge – Brassierie Joel

Park Plaza Hotel, Westminster Bridge

Enjoy free live music, seasonal produce and a snack, on London’s trendy South Bank. The lounge and patisserie coffee shop attached to the brand new Park Plaza Hotel, Westminster Bridge, is home to celebrity chef Joel Antunes. Serving gorgeous afternoon teas and a view to die for, this perfect place overlooking the River Thames, is the place to go after viewing the art at the Tate Gallery, or going for a ride on the London Eye.

2. Marylebone: Near Oxford Circus – Villandry Charcuterie

170 Great Portland Street, Marylebone, W1W 5Q.

This delightful restaurant and Grand Cafe venue is also a food store, making it ideal to pick up a hamper to go picnicking in nearby Hyde park. Complete with several dining rooms, two cafes, including an outdoor tearoom, this stylish venue prides itself on sourcing the best produce from around the world. You’ll think you’ve died and gone to coffee heaven sipping deluxe beverages, and sampling the famous cake counter menu. Continue reading “Six Unusual, Quirky and Unique Coffee Shops in London” →

London is a busy, bustling hub full of opportunities and can be a great place to live and work but, like many capital cities, the cost of living can be very high. However, with a little ingenuity and creativity, it is possible to save money, try something new and even stumble across some hidden gems you might not otherwise discover.

Travelling around:

The Oyster Card makes travelling by tube and bus a little easier and cheaper; the savings on single journeys compared to buying a ticket on the day range from 50p to £3; what’s more, if you make a number of journeys by bus and tube throughout the day, the fee is automatically capped at the maximum day rate.

Once you are in central London, it is surprisingly easy to get around on foot, it may be possible to avoid using multiple modes of transport by heading to a tube station relatively near your destination and walking the rest of the route. This way you become familiarised with your surroundings, get some exercise, save money and do something positive for the environment.

Looking good:

London is a stylish city but it is possible to look chic without breaking the bank. Search charity and thrift shops for designer garments including office wear in perfectly good condition at a fraction of the retail price; look out for sample sales held by many high-end stores, most are announced online through social networking sites and fashion blogs; visit Camden or Spitalfields markets for unique outfits and have a go at bartering for an even better price.

Look out for salons seeking hair models; trainee stylists offer free haircuts and colour in exchange for the practise, they are always observed closely by senior staff there is usually very little chance of a disaster.

Eating and drinking:

By far the best way to save money on a working lunch is to bring you own. Prepare a sandwich or salad or even leftovers from last night’s dinner, it works out cheaper and usually healthier.

Alternatively, buy lunch from the supermarket, many offer meal deals and reward points schemes. For coffee, avoid the large chains and try out the numerous independently owned coffee shops, they are cheaper, you will be supporting small businesses and often the coffee is excellent. Continue reading “Tips on how to save money when working in London” →