A Cathay Pacific's Cathay Diamond member's guide to London

When it comes to unlocking the soul of a city, who better to guide you than a community that lives and breathes travel and discovery?  

Forget the generic London itineraries and tourist traps; we’ve turned to one of our own, Cathay Pacific's Cathay Diamond member Mark Li, for true, tried-and-tested recommendations. 

Thanks to a career in finance and academia in Hong Kong, Li’s relationship with London has evolved over many decades. Business trips turned into deeply personal connections – recently culminating in Li becoming a UK citizen and full-time resident of the city. His unique perspective — as both a visitor and insider — has allowed him to peel back the layers of the multifaceted British capital and get to the crux of what makes it so iconic. Read on for his top London travel tips.  

The must-dos 

Even among the initiated, some London hotspots remain essential. Borough Market, Li says, is “always worth a visit, whether you’re a tourist or a local. It’s one of those places where you can shop for fresh produce, enjoy amazing food and drinks, and soak up the atmosphere all in one spot.” His advice? Head for the market’s seafood stall, where you can indulge in ready-to-eat seafood and caviar; then allow some time to admire the seasonal produce and flowers, before picking up a pastry or freshly baked loaf. “Honestly, once you step into the market, you find something fascinating at every turn,” marvels Li. The market’s location near Cannon Street and London Bridge, surrounded by sightseeing and dining options, makes it easy to weave into a day of exploration. 

For a full day out, Li recommends Greenwich: “Start with a walk up the hill to the Royal Observatory or explore the Maritime Museum, then relax with a picnic in the surrounding park.” Li suggests reaching the eastern borough via the Uber Boat that glides along the Thames, offering a unique perspective of the city. For families, a visit to the historic ship, the Cutty Sark, is also a must. “If you’re not afraid of heights, do as I did once and climb up the ship’s masts – the view over Canary Wharf, Greenwich, and the Thames River is unforgettable.” 

The must-eats 

For Li, London’s true culinary gems lie off the beaten track. His favourite restaurants are those run with heart and passion. 

Just a 25-minute walk from Borough Market, Sushinoen is an oasis of calm. “From its traditional wooden shopfront to the warm hospitality of its Japanese staff, every detail makes you feel instantly transported,” Li says. Dishes of fresh sushi, delicate rolls, and bubbling hotpot are best enjoyed with a glass of sake. “Step inside and it’s almost as if you’ve slipped away to Tokyo for a quick escape.” 

Meanwhile, The Shell is Li’s go-to for unpretentious yet utterly delicious seafood in a relaxed setting. Run by a friendly Malaysian team, the restaurant infuses Western-style cooking with subtle Asian touches. “It’s not fine dining, but that’s exactly the charm. The staff are always ready to chat, which makes the experience feel personal,” Li says. “And the location is a bonus. After a meal, you can wander past the big bank headquarters, stroll around Canary Wharf, and soak up the mix of modern city life and riverside charm.” 

For the vibrant flavours of Spain, Li heads to a Borough Yards favourite: Parrillan . Here, a huge open-fire grill is the star of the show, imparting a smoky, rustic quality to meats, seafood, and vegetables. “The tapas are every bit as good as those I’ve enjoyed in Spain,” Li says. “It feels like a little Mediterranean escape. Perfect for a long, leisurely meal with friends.” 

His go-to bar 

While London is overflowing with trendy bars, Li finds himself returning to one Soho spot time and again, after being brought there by a friend years ago. Cahoots Underground is an experience in itself: designed to resemble a 1940s tube station, complete with vintage train carriages and wartime posters, it offers patrons full immersion into the London of the past. “The cocktails are inventive, the live music sets the mood, and the whole place has the charm of a secret drinking den,” Li enthuses, adding: “You can’t book ahead, so be prepared for a bit of a wait — especially on Thursdays and weekends — but trust me, it’s worth it.” 

Are you a Diamond member with tips and memories to share? Respond to our latest Cathay Pacific Member Stories prompt, and your submission could appear in our next article.