Natural History, British, or Maritime? Choosing the Best Free Museum in London!

ABBEY: During our recent trip to the UK, we had the opportunity to visit three incredible museums—all absolutely free to enter! These museums were the Natural History Museum, the British Museum, and the National Maritime Museum. While admission is free, it’s important to note that advance booking is required for both the Natural History Museum and the British Museum due to high visitor demand.

Each museum offers a unique experience that caters to a wide range of interests.

Natural History Museum – A Fascinating Journey Through the Natural World
This museum was a personal favorite. The exhibits featuring animals from all over the world were both captivating and educational. Some of the displays made me wonder if the animals would make good pets (though most, of course, are best admired from a safe distance!). Others were simply awe-inspiring—reminding us just how small we are in comparison to the giants of nature.

British Museum – A Treasure Trove of Human History
At the British Museum, you’ll find an extraordinary collection of artifacts that tell the story of human civilization. From ancient jewelry, pottery, and artwork to iconic pieces like the Rosetta Stone, this museum showcases the rich tapestry of global history. It’s a perfect stop for anyone who wants to see how different cultures and civilizations are connected through time.

National Maritime Museum – A Deep Dive Into Maritime History
The National Maritime Museum highlights the UK’s deep connection to sea exploration and trade. The exhibit begins with stunning photographs of stars, constellations, and galaxies—used historically for navigation. These award-winning images are not only beautiful but also remind us how far navigation has come. You’ll also see historic instruments and maritime artifacts that shed light on seafaring life through the ages.
If you’re curious about the culture and history of a place, museums are an excellent starting point. They offer a deeper understanding of the region’s heritage, achievements, and way of life—all while being fun and often free to explore.

Kindly donate to help them continue this endeavor. 

Natural History, British, or Maritime? Choosing the Best Free Museum in London!

WILL: Natural History Museum vs British Museum vs National Maritime Museum. Which one deserves a few hours of your London itinerary?

Yes, there are different kinds of tourists. And Abbey and I? We’re the kind who always make time for museums. I’m not exactly sure why, but there’s this deeply fulfilling feeling we get whenever we step into one. It’s like, in some small way, we get to understand a slice of a country’s history and culture.

Now, if there’s one place in the world that knows how to do museums right, it’s London. Not only does it showcase its own rich heritage, but it also houses pieces from countries under the Commonwealth realm—offering a global perspective in just one city.
But let’s be real—not everyone has the time or the energy to explore all the free museums in London. If you’re short on time or unsure where to go, this blog is your quick guide. 😉

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Natural History Museum
According to Google AI: “A Natural History Museum focuses on the natural world—plants, animals, rocks, minerals, and fossils. These museums are known for their vast specimen collections, research, and educational exhibits. They help us understand Earth’s history and the diversity of life.”

So nope, don’t expect ancient civilization artifacts here. Think fossils, geology, and a deep dive into natural science.
If you’re fascinated by dinosaurs, evolution, and real-life fossils, this place will blow your mind. The collection is massive and engaging, especially for kids. We initially planned for a 2-hour visit—but trust me, that wasn’t enough!

Allocate at least half a day here if you’re visiting with children. The dinosaur skeletons and interactive exhibits are guaranteed hits.

⸻
British Museum
The British Museum is the world’s first national public museum. As you may know, Britain once ruled a vast empire—and many artifacts from across the world (like the Parthenon Marbles from Greece and ancient Egyptian relics) now reside here.

Our experience? We dedicated two hours to explore, but honestly, only had time for the top “must-see” exhibits. What I personally loved? Their timepiece collection and the highlight of the museum—the Egyptian Sculpture Gallery. It’s like having a little piece of Egypt right in London.
⸻
National Maritime Museum
Wait, why visit this one?
If you’re asking, “Why the Maritime Museum?” — hear me out. This was actually my favorite among the three.
-- Less crowded
-- Less noisy
-- More immersive (especially for adults who love stories of trade, travel, and conquest)

Located in Greenwich, this museum offers a breath of fresh air away from the more touristy spots of Central London. It dives deep into how Britain dominated global trade by sea, and how maritime power shaped the world’s history and economy.
Oh, and if you’ve got kids? There’s an entire play area just for them—so everyone’s happy!

So, which one should you choose?
> Into science, fossils, and Earth’s past? Go for the Natural History Museum.
> Love global history and ancient artifacts? Head to the British Museum.
> Want a quieter, thought-provoking escape with bonus kid-friendly space? Don’t miss the National Maritime Museum.

Or if you’re like us—just visit all three! 😄
Enjoy exploring London and let me know which museum you loved the most!

London in Real Time 🇬🇧 | Tower Bridge, Museums, High Tea & Harry Potter (Day 2–3 Slow Travel Vlog)

Slow Travel UK | Unfiltered Greenwich to Edinburgh Journey 🇬🇧 | Day 4-5 London Vlog

CHECK THIS OUT! 

Accommodation Excellence

Expedia Booking.com, Hostelworld: Your one-stop-shop for hotel and hostel bookings. Find your perfect home away from home with Expedia's extensive listings.

KKDAY: Not Just for Attractions. KKDAY offers excellent options for accommodations. Explore and book with confidence.

Our Travel Shoe Secret: 2 Pairs That Work for Rain, Snow & City Strolls!

On Cloud 5 Waterproof sneakers used for daily runs, city walks, and rainy travel days

On Running Cloud 5 Waterproof Sneakers

For: Rainy days, airport sprints, city strolls, light hikes

Now, meet my everyday hero: the On Cloud 5 Waterproof shoes. We were actually just scouting for a new walking shoe—something comfier than our old Nikes. And then we saw someone running in ankle-deep snow in Mürren wearing Ons! Swiss brand, Swiss snow—okay, sold!

These shoes are super waterproof and non-slip, which is a huge win when you’re dragging your luggage through rainy streets or slippery train stations. They’re not bulky at all, so I even wear them to work here in sunny Singapore!

Oh—and have you heard about the daily rain in Scotland and Ireland? Yep, we’ve been there too, and guess what? On Cloud kept our socks dry. Haha! I never thought I’d be giggling in the rain, but dry feet make everything better.

Also—fun fact: We’ve worn our On Cloud 5s for almost a year now, around 4 times a week, and the soles are still holding up so well. That’s serious durability for daily and travel use.

And yes, these aren’t just for walking—I actually use my On Cloud 5 Waterproof as my running and gym sessions too.

Walking on clouds? That’s not just branding, folks. These shoes are so light and fit so well, you’ll forget you’re wearing them. Airport? Shopping? Daily errands? Bring it on!

Timberland Premium 6-Inch Waterproof Boots used for 4 years in snow, rain, and hiking trips

Timberland® Premium 6-Inch Waterproof Nubuck Boots

For: Hiking, snow, cold weather, rough terrains

First up—our tough and trusty Timberlands! We got these boots when Abbey had a little ankle situation, and wow, they’ve been lifesavers (or should I say anklesavers?). They keep his steps steady and ankles secure, no matter how rocky the path is.

And bonus—they’re so stylish! Abbey pairs them with shorts, jeans, and even semi-formal outfits. Yes, even at events where he has to look cute but still needs to survive unexpected puddles. Wink!

Where have these boots been? Oh, all over:
 • Hiking at Bukit Timah in Singapore
 • Climbing rocks in Masungi Georeserve (Philippines)
 • Chilly strolls by Lake Kawaguchiko in Japan
 • Snowy adventures in Mt. Rigi, Mürren, and Matterhorn in Switzerland!

Oh, and here’s the kicker: We’ve had our Timberlands for over 4 years now, and they’re still going strong! The soles are still thick and sturdy—proof that these boots are truly built to last.

Rain? Snow? Muddy trails? Cold toes? Timberland handles it like a pro.

Prices —

Timberland Waterproof Boot: SGD 319.00 (IMM for discount)

On Cloud 5: SGD 274.00

CHECK THIS OUT! 

Accommodation Excellence

Expedia Booking.com, Hostelworld: Your one-stop-shop for hotel and hostel bookings. Find your perfect home away from home with Expedia's extensive listings.

KKDAY: Not Just for Attractions. KKDAY offers excellent options for accommodations. Explore and book with confidence.

Bonus Tip: Zalora for OOTD Goals!

Oh, and speaking of dreams, let's talk OOTD (Outfit of the Day) goals. Head over to Zalora for some jaw-dropping fashion finds. Click [here] to explore and snag those Instagram-worthy outfits for your trip. A fashionable adventure awaits!

 

Tempura Makino Singapore: The Only Tempura We’d Queue For

ABBEY: If you’re a fan of Japanese cuisine, Tamoya Udon & Tempura at Plaza Singapura is a must-visit spot. During our recent visit, we were greeted with a bit of a queue, but thankfully, the wait was short—we were seated within just a few minutes.

I decided to try the Beef & Pork Combo Don, which came topped with a perfectly cooked onsen egg. What stood out right away was the generous portion of meat. Unlike most Japanese rice bowls where the rice often outweighs the meat, Tamoya flips the script. The bowl was filled with tender, savory slices of beef and pork that satisfied both my heart and my hunger.

Another highlight was their Kakiage—a mixed vegetable tempura that came in a sizeable portion. It was impressively light, not too oily, and paired wonderfully with the dipping sauce provided.

One of the great perks here is the free-flow side dishes. We helped ourselves to a variety of options including kelp, corn, and pickled radish, which added a nice balance to the meal.

Tamoya Udon & Tempura delivered a satisfying and flavorful dining experience. Whether you’re craving hearty donburi or crispy tempura, this place is definitely worth a return visit.

Tempura Makino Unagi Set - Japanese Restaurant in Singapore

WILL: I’ve given up on tempura a long time ago. Too often, it’s soggy. Oily. Over-seasoned. A forgettable side dish.

But one night in Singapore, that changed.

My husband was craving Japanese food, and we noticed a long queue outside Tempura Makino. I wasn’t expecting much—but curiosity won.

I ordered the Unagi Tempura Set (SGD 23.90). And from the first bite, I paused.

Crispy. Light. Clean.
Not greasy. Not salty. Just right. The kind of crunch that makes you slow down and savour.

This tempura wasn’t a sidekick. It was the main event.

The portion was generous—no need for dessert. You could taste the quality of the ingredients, and there’s a clear skill behind how each item was fried. No shortcuts.

Now, I understand the queue. It’s not just hype. It’s a return-worthy kind of place.

If you’ve been disappointed by tempura before, let Tempura Makino change your mind. Because yes—it’s that good!

Have you tried a tempura that surprised you? Let me know—I might check it out next.

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Tempura Makino

(W) https://tempuramakino.com.sg/

(H) 11am to 10pm daily

(A) 1 HarbourFront Walk, #02-111, VivoCity Singapore 098585

They Found All Our Pain Points – Our TCM Massage at Dr Hannah (Tampines)

ABBEY: When you’re in search of a massage that truly targets deep-seated tension and leaves your body feeling renewed, Hannah TCM is a hidden gem worth discovering. We were on the lookout for a place where we could genuinely feel relief from our aching bodies—and Hannah TCM delivered exactly that.

From the moment we arrived, it was clear that this isn’t your typical spa. The therapists here take their work seriously—this is more than just a service, it’s a craft. Be prepared for an intense experience. You’ll be kneaded like dough (in the best way possible), and you may be surprised to discover just how many areas of your body are carrying tension.

The pressure can be quite firm, which is great for working out those stubborn muscle knots, but you can request a gentler touch if needed—just keep in mind that the stronger pressure is where the real magic happens.

We’re currently on our second session and the feeling after each visit is the same: refreshed, recharged, and ready to take on the day. With a few more sessions to go, we’re already confident that the experience will remain consistently satisfying.

A quick tip: Be sure to arrive on time. Hannah TCM enforces a strict policy—late arrivals may result in cancelled appointments and forfeited vouchers, so punctuality is key.

Whether you’re dealing with chronic tension or simply want a more effective massage experience, Hannah TCM is worth adding to your wellness routine.

They Found All Our Pain Points – Our TCM Massage at Dr Hannah (Tampines)

WILL: I used to be pretty intimidated by the idea of going to a TCM massage.

There’s something about it—maybe it’s the thought that they’ll uncover every hidden ache in your body, the well-known high consultation fees, or even the occasional language barrier.

We arrived late for our trial session, but Dr Hannah TCM still accommodated us. The massage was supposed to be 45 minutes, but it genuinely felt like a 2-hour full-body reset.

What made it even better? No hard selling.
After the session, I found myself willingly signing up for a package—not because I was pressured, but because I knew my body needed it.

My masseuse, May, was knew that I can take hard pressure and she is precise. After a full massage, she concentrated on my knotted shoulders and even did head massage. And yes, they just know where the pain points are—as if your body spoke directly to them.

What stood out for me is how dedicated the therapists are. It seem that they are genuinely focused on your healing and wellbeing.

Would I recommend it? Absolutely.
I’ve already started telling my friends about Dr Hannah TCM. The only downside is that it’s located only in Tampines (for now). I really hope they open more branches across Singapore.

The 1.5-hour session starts at SGD 108. 

If you’re curious about TCM massage but feel unsure, let this be your sign to give it a go. Especially if you’re near Tampines, Dr Hannah TCM could just be the healing experience you didn’t know you needed.

***

Dr Hannah TCM

(W)https://www.drhannahtcmspa.sg/

(H) 10am to 9pm

(A) 5 Tampines Central 6, #01-01A Telepark, Singapore 529482

(T) 8912 2946

🇬🇧What to Expect in London: A Honest Comparison to Singapore

As someone who resides in Singapore, arriving in London as a tourist brought a few surprises. While both cities are world-famous travel hubs, they offer very different experiences—especially when it comes to comfort, convenience, and everyday expectations. If you’re planning to visit London and have already explored Singapore, here’s what you shouldn’t expect in London, plus a few things you’ll surprisingly love. 

1. Safety in London vs Singapore
Singapore is one of the safest countries in the world—you can leave your bag on a table at a food court and it’ll still be there when you return. London? Not quite the same.
During our visit, we witnessed a pickpocket incident on the Elizabeth Line on our very first day In London, you can’t leave your belongings unattended, even for a short moment. Always keep your bags close, zipped up, and in sight.

2. Train System: The London Tube vs Singapore MRT
If you’re used to Singapore’s MRT, the London Underground might come as a shock.
• Trains are older and less clean.
• Not all stations have lifts or escalators.
• Walkalators? None in sight for long-distance transfers.
• Some interchanges require exiting the station and walking outdoors to another entrance.
It works, but it’s not the most tourist-friendly experience.

3. Toilet Availability in London
One thing I missed the most in London? Public toilets. In Singapore, clean restrooms are everywhere—in malls, MRT stations, parks. In London, toilets are hard to find and often require payment. Your best bet: cafés and restaurants. 

4. Local Culture and Approachability
In Singapore, you can ask strangers for directions, and most will help you. In London, the vibe is different. Locals are a bit more reserved, and some may avoid interaction altogether—possibly out of habit or safety concerns. It’s not rude; it’s just maybe their culture.

🇬🇧What to Expect in London: A Honest Comparison to Singapore

What You’ll Love and Miss About London

Despite the differences, London has undeniable charm and culture that sets it apart from any other city.

1. The Weather
If you’ve had enough of Singapore’s year-round humidity, London’s crisp, cool climate will be a breath of fresh air—literally.

2. History and Knowledge
The museums, castles, churches, and the grandeur of the West End… it’s like stepping inside a history book. And many museums? They’re free.

3. British Food Classics
Don’t underestimate the comfort of a good Sunday Roast or Bangers and Mash. London’s food scene is diverse too. But yeah a too much pricey than SG. 

Singapore and London couldn’t be more different—but that’s what makes travel exciting. While you might miss Singapore’s efficiency and safety, London offers a rich history, culture, and stories that are truly unforgettable.

Just pack your patience, keep your belongings close, and dive into the adventure.

CHECK THIS OUT! 

Accommodation Excellence

Expedia Booking.com, Hostelworld: Your one-stop-shop for hotel and hostel bookings. Find your perfect home away from home with Expedia's extensive listings.

KKDAY: Not Just for Attractions. KKDAY offers excellent options for accommodations. Explore and book with confidence.

Bingz in Singapore: Crispy Burger & Wontons You’ll Drool Over!

ABBEY: If you love discovering new and exciting food, you have to try Bingz, a Chinese restaurant that’s bringing a unique twist to the burger scene. Unlike your typical soft buns, Bingz serves up crispy, flaky buns that are packed with flavorful fillings like pork, beef, and chicken.

But the crispy burgers are just the beginning! Their menu also feature noodles, wontons, crispy fries, and refreshing drinks. My personal favorites? The Signature Pork Burger, which delivers a delicious blend of natural spices without being overwhelming, and the Wontons with Chili Oil—not too spicy, but with just the right touch of numbing heat.

Oh, and here’s a bonus: their drinks are refillable! So, if you’re craving something crispy, savory, and satisfying, head over to Bingz and treat yourself to this one-of-a-kind burger experience.

Bingz in Singapore: Crispy Burger & Wontons You’ll Drool Over!

WILL: Is Bingz an abomination of the classic burger? Or is it just a brilliant twist inspired by culture, taste, and market cravings? Honestly — who sets the rules when food crossovers hit the sweet (and savoury) spot?

Lately, I’ve noticed a crispy burger trend popping up around Singapore, and guess what? Bingz stands out as my top pick! I’ve tried a few versions here and there, but nothing hits quite like Bingz’s crispy Chinese-style burger. The texture, the flavour — it just works. Haha!
Oh, and don’t get me started on their Wontons in Chili Oil. They’re spicy, flavourful, and that signature mala kick? It’s addictive! Yes, I'm drooling just thinking about it.

Is it obvious that Bingz is my current obsession? You might’ve even seen us dining at their outlets in Nex or Jewel Changi — yup, that was probably me, blissfully munching away.
So, are you curious enough to give Bingz a try? Let me know what you think — maybe we’ll bump into each other next time!

Price Starts: SGD3.50

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Bingz Singapore

(W) http://sg.bingz.com/

(H) 10AM to 10PM

(A) 23 Serangoon Central, B2-50/51 NEX, Singapore 556083

(T) 6531 0207