Shoreditch, London. #MarinaTravels

Bold and outrageous graffiti art covering the streets of Shoreditch, London.  A place I've heard so much about long before I ever planned my first trip to the UK. Shoreditch has most definitely lived up to its reputation of being one of London's coolest district. Its a place where creative and fashion-forward young people love to hang out and photographers and bloggers alike come here looking for inspirations and new ideas.

Contrary to the old Victorian and Gothic architectures we've seen so much in central London and the Westminster area, Shoreditch has a more gritty urban edge and youthful vibe to it. One that resembles that of Los Angeles' Melrose Avenue if I might say. If you happen to be a fan of colorful, out-there street arts, quirky clothing shops and markets, Shoreditch is a must-go for you when you are visiting London.

→Here are a few things you can do in Shoreditch:

⇨ Vintage shopping

For me personally, Shoreditch is all about thrift shopping and vintage clothes. You can expect to see a handful of quirky clothing stores and vintage shops the minute you step out of Old Street Underground Station. The variety of styles and choices you get at the vintage shops in Shoreditch was simply insane. I do have to say that because retro style has obviously become more popular especially for the past year or so, the price of vintage clothing has never been more expensive. Nevertheless, you don't necessarily have to shop there, but it's definitely the perfect place to look around and get some outfit inspirations.
Here are some vintage stores I recommend checking out while in Shoreditch :

➨Absolute Vintage 
➨Rokit Vintage
➨Blondie Vintage (sadly Blondie Vintage is officially closed in June this year, it has however moved its store online under the name Miss Vintage.)
➨Blitz

To read more about the Top 10 Vintage Stores in Shoreditch.

⇨ Go to Old Spitalfields Market
Address: 16 Horner Square, Spitalfields, London, E1 6EW

One of my favorite markets, Old Spitalfields Market is one of the oldest market in London, been here for over 350 years. It is situated in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets in the east end of the city. The closest tube stop to the market would be Shoreditch High Street Station or Liverpool Street Station. At Old Spitalfields Market, you can expect to see many trader stalls selling a wide range of interesting things from art, crafts, and Fashion. Fashion lovers can enjoy thrift shopping and find unique clothing and accessories. According to its organizers, Old Spitalfields is well-known for its cutting-edge fashion.

If you are a foodie and love discovering cool new cafes and restaurants, you are in luck. The market is filled with food stands, cafes, restaurants, and even cocktail bars. From American style burgers at Bleecker St. Burger, traditional Indian street food, Mediterranean meals at The Real Greek to Jamaican style cafe at Cafe Caribbean just to name a few.

⇨ Spotting cool graffiti arts

When traveling to a new city, I am always on the lookout for interesting places to photograph. Graffiti may not be everybody's cup of tea, but here in Shoreditch, you can't help but admire the creativity and talent of the anonymous masterminds of these street arts. Shoreditch is without any doubt one of the coolest places I have ever been. The area has got an edgy, hip-hop vibe to it, and the countless creative street art I encountered was incredible. It's certainly one of the best places to photograph and document your trip to London.