Displaced Beachbums

When in London, it’s best to factor in extra time when venturing out because, more often than not, there’s a place along the way that’s just as interesting as your final destination. Since John was knee-deep in homework yesterday, Logan and I decided to leave him to study hard while we checked out a pop-up store located on Brick Lane in East London ~ the pop-up, American Apparel Factory Outlet, will be open until 14 October.

Due to the repairs and closures of several tube lines, it was a challenge getting to Liverpool Station, but once we emerged from the station and headed toward Brick Lane, we could feel the change in the atmosphere.  East London is historic, culturally diverse and, as Logan would say, “so hipster.”

After purchasing a few items at American Apparel, we headed over to Old Spitalfields Market for more shopping and lunch. Spitalfields is derived from St Mary’s Spital (Spital is the old world name for a Hospital).

The market is huge with many vendors but it’s not a farmers market, it’s a flea market as well as having permanent restaurants and shops. Since it was lunchtime, we opted for food ~ Logan had a freshly squeezed strawberry/orange juice (so yummy) and then we found “Rainforest Creations” ~ an all-vegan food stall. Very yummy, very healthy. Next time, we’ll indulge and visit the Curry Capital:

We plan on returning soon, and on a Saturday, to explore more of the clothes stalls ~ which include vintage, homemade and designer clothes.  The stock varies weekly so there’s always something new to see (& buy). On the following dates, affordable art work is for sale:

11 – 14 October
01  – 04 November
22  – 25 November
29 November – 02 December
06 – 09 December
13 – 16 December
20 – 23 December

I’m so glad we ventured into East London but realize we’ve only grazed the surface.  I’m already planning a return trip…