Having London as a second home is a privilege, especially while enduring and navigating the aftermath of the pandemic and the complexities of the current political climate in America. Thus, my partner and I have become deliberate about planning longer stays in London and mini trips during our time aboard.
We are always looking to experience new things together. My partner comes from a family of Arsenal Football Club fans. Naturally, she’s become a fan of the club. However, she is also impressed with a few players who play for Aston Villa F.C., and I’m a fan of Son Heung-min who plays for Tottenham Hotspur F.C.
Aston Villa and Tottenham were in a tight race in the 2023-24 season for the 4th and 5th seed in the league. We figured it would be a dope match to experience, so we purchased middle-field tickets to see the club’s battle at Villa Park Stadium in Birmingham, England…The Midlands.
A Little History
It’s an easy commute from London to Birmingham. It takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes by train from London. A roundtrip ticket costs about 50 pounds per person.
Over the last 50 years, Birmingham has become one of the most culturally diverse cities in the U.K., thanks, in large part, to its vibrant immigrant communities. Many immigrants came from India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, seeking opportunities in the textile and manufacturing industries. The initial and significant influx of South Asian immigrants to Birmingham began in the 1950s and 1960s, mainly due to labor shortages post-World War II.
Waves of South Asians also moved from London to Birmingham to escape the high cost of living and experiences of racism and discrimination. Birmingham was perceived as offering more affordable housing and better opportunities for education and employment. Additionally, the presence of established South Asian communities provided a support network, making it easier for migrants to settle and integrate.
Modern Day
Birmingham is the second largest city in England and is home to several prestigious institutions, including the University of Birmingham, Aston University, and Birmingham City University. The city’s educational landscape attracts both domestic and international students, which further enhances its cultural diversity.
In addition to education, generationally owned local family restaurants heavily contribute to the heartbeat of Birmingham. My partner and I dined at Asha’s – a Michelin guide-recommended Indian restaurant known for its vibrant atmosphere and exquisite menu. Named after Asha Bhosle, the legendary Indian playback singer, the restaurant offers a unique blend of traditional Indian flavors and modern dining experiences. Everybody from King Charles to us dine here. Not even kidding 😊.
Saint Pauls House
I’ve become more intentional with using my American Express Platinum card. As a Platinum Card Member, I get access to an exclusive suite of benefits at Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts and The Hotel Collection properties. We booked a 2-night stay at Saint Pauls House, a boutique hotel located in St. Pauls Square – a quant English cobblestoned neighborhood in heart of the Jewelry Quarter. Since Saint Pauls House is an Amex partner, I could’ve paid for our stay and earned 5X membership rewards on future flights or prepaid hotel bookings. However, I decided to keep the cost of this trip low by using the rewards points I had previously accumulated.
The hotel combines contemporary design with historic architecture, creating a welcoming and sophisticated atmosphere. The ambiance is warm and inviting, perfect for everything from casual meals to special occasions.
Saint Pauls Restaurant
In my opinion, Saint Paul’s restaurant is the main attraction. It offers a modern British menu that focuses on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
If you know anything about Sunday in England, everyone is heading to the pub for a good roast. Lucky for us, Saint Pauls offers a delicious roast. A roast generally consists of pork, chicken, beef, and now vegetarian options with sides of roasted potatoes and root vegetables, and Yorkshire pudding. All to be smothered under a blanket of gravy.
My partner, like me, doesn’t generally eat red meat. However, the beef came highly recommended and didn’t disappoint. I couldn’t help but put my fork on her plate for a few mouthfuls.
Saint Pauls House is a pleasant experience all around. Whether staying or dining, I recommended visiting the dynamic and lively establishment.
The Library of Birmingham
As my other half would say in her Caribbean accent, “If you want to get a good understanding of who and what a city is, go to their public library.” In other words, a library is a community resource. When adequately invested, a library should strengthen community ties, foster inclusivity, and enhance the overall quality of life for its residents.
The Library of Birmingham is one of the most developed architectural libraries that either of us has experienced from a resources standpoint.
This modern landmark opened in 2013 and is situated in the city center. It is one of the largest public libraries in the U.K., featuring a unique design with a plethora of offerings.
A key highlight of the library is the Shakespeare Memorial Room, which pays homage to the playwright. I was enamored by the historic and physical space that features intricate crown molding and woodwork. However, one of our favorite areas was, no doubt, the outdoor garden, perfect for studying, downtime, and sunsets.
The Library of Birmingham serves as a repository of knowledge and community-oriented resources. It was beautiful to witness how this beacon connects the diverse community that is Birmingham.
Aston Villa F.C.
Another place that encapsulates the true essence of Birmingham is Villa Park Stadium, home to Aston Villa F.C. since 1897. Nothing reenergizes and reunites this community more than when Aston Villa is playing at home.
Football is more than a sport in England; it’s a vital part of the national identity, a source of pride, and a community connection. In true midland fashion, it was pouring with rain, but that did not deter the thousands of fans who show up every home game to see their team play.
The stadium is about a 20-minute drive from the City Center. You can feel the energy in the neighborhood change as you approach the arena.
Our seats were awesome! We sat right at midfield with clear views of the entire stadium. Unknowingly, we ended up in a section uncomfortably close to the Tottenham fan section. If you know anything about English football fans, it can get quite lively and contentious, as in, it can go left quickly.
Sitting in front of us, seemingly unbothered by the obscenities being screamed by the Aston Villa and Tottenham fans, was a three-generation family of white working-class Englishmen. My partner and I got warm and fuzzy watching the older gentleman pass out homemade sandwiches to his sons and grandsons and then promptly pour himself a nice, hot cup of tea out of his thermos. We looked at each other and thought, “he’s doing this right!”
In many ways, Birmingham is reminiscent of places like Pittsburgh, Detroit, and other cities in America, held together by blue-collar workers and immigrants hoping to pave the way for their families. Through travel, I continue to realize you really can be different and unified all at the same time.
What do you think?