The Couple’s Guide to Getting Hitched in London

Wedding preparations may bring jitters to any couple, but just the same, they can send them giggling with excitement. Mind you, wedding preparations take a lot of time, energy, and resources. However, it’s fun to do, especially when you are totally hands-on with it. Should you like to get hitched in London, here’s a quick guide to doing it right.

One of the things a couple needs to settle is to select one among the wedding venues in North London, as peak months will leave you booking venues in another city. A Georgian townhouse in Oxford Street, Chandos House, has been holding civil weddings for years. Meanwhile, St. Stephen’s Hampstead is a deconsecrated church that is popular among Londoners for its spacious and candlelit gardens. It’s perfect for couples who prefer getting married with faerie motifs and whimsical themes.

Hampton Court House is another smart choice, for it is licensed to hold civil wedding ceremonies. The bonus? It’s near the Hampton Court Palace, so you can save your photo-taking opportunities right after the wedding. If going historical is your style, however, you may want to check out Ironmonger’s Hall, which has a Tudor-style building perfect for photos and romantic motifs. It comes with a large courtyard for your reception in case you’d like to use the full venue. Otherwise, you can book your guests at hotels in Cricklewood London, which isn’t really far from Hampton Court.

Other cool wedding venues in north London are the sprawling Dodford Manor, which is perfect for a barn wedding; the Canonbury Tavern for couples who want an intimate space for their wedding ceremony; Skylark Farm for the more adventurous and nature-loving couple; the Edward Lear Holloway if you prefer a neo-classical façade for your venue; Lauderdale House, which temporarily takes you away from the noise of the city; Kings Place, a cultural and artistic hub; and the sophisticated and mesmerizing Meridian Grand.

Likewise, don’t forget to check out the Dead Dolls House at 181 Upper Street Islington, which is known for its elegance and decadence; Stephen House and Gardens, which is found in the heart of North London (it also has a historical background!); the beautiful Clissold House and the Clissold Park as its backdrop; and the Art deco-inspired Stoke Newington Town Hall.

This list is just the beginning, and the venue is not the be-all and end-all of your wedding preps. Book early and estimate the number of your guests. Once this has been settled, jump off to the next item in your getting hitched list.

Get-Fit Goals for Every Traveler

Traveling is usually a part of every person’s bucket list, since it pushes one to his limits and encourages him to check out various cultures and traditions. Traveling is likewise synonymous with eating, as it’s a shame to miss a country’s local food fare.

Fitness buffs like to argue, however, that you can still stay in shape even while traveling. You don’t have to throw your workout routines out the window as you hop from one destination to another. You just have to know how to keep in shape while you are backpacking.

The trick is to find a way to work out everywhere you go. For example, you can explore tourist destinations near the best Western hotels London as you bike. Biking builds calf muscles and burns a lot of calories. It’s also a fun activity that you’ll enjoy whether you’re traveling solo, or you’re with your family and friends. Walking around also keeps those muscles working, plus you get to enjoy the sights in the city.

There are also parks in London where you can do your push-ups and pull-ups. Look for a playground and take advantage of the monkey bars and see-saws to tone your arms and legs.

Another way to keep in shape is to go on a diet. While this may be difficult as you see an array of food fare in London (Crumpets, mince pies, and tea, anyone?), you can practice the time-tested portion control method. Budget hotels near Wembley Stadium likewise offers cheap yet healthy meals that you can also try during your stay.

Moreover, it’s better to stay disciplined as you travel instead of treating each vacay as your “cheat day” – the risk of overeating and getting bloated is high if you keep this mentality. Before you embark on your journey, draft a decent nutrition plan. As much as possible, eat real food and avoid restaurants that offer high caloric meals.

Try the Paleo diet, which is deemed by travelers as an effective strategy to keep the fat at bay. Paleo diet literally translates to eating like a caveman, and the only kind of food you need to eat are natural ones. Thus, you won’t have to worry about the sugar and calories. Eat more vegetables, protein, fruits, and nuts. It’s time to take a walk to the markets of London and try out their produce!

Traveling doesn’t have to make you fat. Simply be a smart traveler and plan your meals ahead of time. You could check out London’s delicacies, too, but be mindful of how much you eat. Most important, have fun as you explore London and its wonderful sights!