Ziad Khouri, a chief technology officer, 35, has lived in North London for over 20 years but is originally from Amman, Jordan. In his free time he enjoys going to concerts, museums, art galleries and practising MMA.How long have you lived in North London?
I lived in Camden from 1977 to 1998, so, 21 years.
How was it back then? Has it changed a lot?
Yes. Camden used to be totally different. It was much edgier-home to various subcultures including punks, and graffiti artists. Also drug abuse was everywhere. It was raw, but also much more exciting. It first started to change when MTV and other TV companies opened their studios there. Now its been cleaned up and made more commercial.
What makes it so special?
Music. Lots of genres were born in Camden. Even today it has many excellent venues.
The market is the biggest tourist attraction in London by size, by profit and by number of people. The market has to be seen to be believe-It's huge and vibrant. There is nowhere like it in the world.
What are your best memories from that time?
My favourite thing would be to walk along the Regents Canal to the market. Its so green in some parts, you can forget you're in a city. I would walk along picking blackberries and checking out the new graffiti. Through the zoo and past the pirate castle! Then at the market I'd meet some friends for coffee and doughnuts before shopping for clothes and second-hand books. We'd finish the day with a pint or two and some loud live music.
Any places that still exist that would you recommend for us?
Trattoia Lucca: Serving excellent authentic Italian home cooking for over 30 years. I've been visiting this family run Italian restaurant since I was a child.
Cyberdog: Started in the early 1990's, this cyber-clothing label is a great example of the vibrant subculture scene. Check out their flagship store in Camden Market.
The Good Mixer: one of the few pubs that still have the 'old' Camden vibe. Not for the faint hearted!
If yes, do you ever go back there nowadays?
I go back a couple of times a year, usually to show visitors. Camden Town is really totally unique. It always feels good to go back.
Did you ever think of moving back?
I wouldn't move back. It was fun when I was younger, but these days I prefer things to be less hectic.
