London Has it All – Just Make Sure You’re Prepared!
Regarded as one of the world’s top travel destinations for tourists, as well as being a leading buisness, cultural and financial centre, London has a lot to offer. Attracting millions of visitors annually, both for holiday and work purposes, the city has grown to become as famous for the celebrities housed there, as it has for its historical attractions and cultural diversity.
Originally comprised of two cities – The City of London and Westminister – England’s capital has gradually grown over the years to become the largest city in Western Europe, boasting four world heritage sites, including the Palace of Westminister and St Margaret’s Church. The population in Greater London alone numbers over 7.5 million people and is continuing to grow.
With London Fashion Week a major event in London’s social calendar, the city is celebrated for its unique sense of fashion and style, with an abundance of department stores, shops and exclusive boutiques to be found in popular areas like Soho, Oxford Square and Covent Garden.
The original street markets, such as those located at Portobello Road and in Camden have also proved to be a popular visit amongst consumers. Indeed, the Camden markets attract over 100,000 visitors every weekend and are thought of as a top London attraction.
However, London has a lot more to offer than just fashion. It combines a rich Array of historical sites of interest, coupled with the more modern attractions that have been added over the years. For example, the London Eye – Europe’s tallest Ferris wheel – was constructed for the millenium, and has since become the most popular paid tourist attraction in the UK. It sees around 10,000 visitors per day and offers the user a panoramic view over London.
The Tower of London, a more traditional attraction, is a site of historic value. Another world heritage site, it is home to the Crown Jewels and also allows one to stand on the exact spot where three previous Queens have been executed!
Trafalgar Square is one of London’s most iconic areas and another popular destination to see. Nelson’s Column can be found here and both the National Gallery and the National Portrait Gallery are nearby. It is also here that the renowned New Year’s celebrations are held.
Famed for its hospitality, London also offers the visitor a plethora of restaurants, cafes, bars and nightclubs. Ranging from the famous (and notoriously hard to get into) celebrity haunts, to laid back eateries, one can find cuisine and nightlife to suit every taste, and price range, imaginable.
Equally, the accomodation on offer is incredibly varied and it is possible to find something to suit all occassions and needs. From hotels in London for the businessman or a romantic break, to hostels just waiting for the intrepid explorer to come along, London has it all. Just remember to be prepared – London is fast paced and with so much to do, it can be easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle!
Which London Hotels Are Best For Attending The Theatre?
Are you planning a trip to England and wondering which London hotels are best for attending the theatre? Are you looking for a super cultural experience? The capital of England and the United Kingdom is the European Union’s most populous city and home to some 7.5 million people, well over 3,000 museums and more than 100 theatres.
Whether you are a theatre buff or just looking for an evening of excitement and entertainment, London is the place for you. At any given time, you will find offerings from Shakespeare to Mary Poppins, Lion King to the Blue Man Group, Guys and Dolls to Monty Python’s Spamalot. Prices are anywhere from affordable to expensive. Whether you go alone or with a group of friends, you’ll find excitement and options.
You may be asking yourself; which London hotels are best for attending the theatre? That depends on your interests and your wallet. First, you will want to decide which of the many plays you want to see. You might want to stay close to one or more of the theatres. Perhaps you prefer to stay in a more central location, near public transportation (such as the “Tube”, London’s subway) so you can get around and do some sightseeing during the day. London offers options for everyone, whether you prefer a boutique hotel or a Bed & Breakfast. Alone, with your partner or in a group, you will find the city has endless possibilities. Some London hotels also offer packages that include theatre tickets. If you and a group of friends want to see some shows together, check with the hotel. Some offer special group rates for 10 to 12 or more.
While theatre is a highlight, London has so much more to offer. Besides the Globe Theatre and Royal Opera House, you have Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. If history and culture are more of interest, do not miss the British Museum. For art, it is the National Gallery and the Tate Gallery of Modern Art. Been looking for a man of mystery? Check out the Sherlock Holmes Museum. Maybe you want to see the changing of the guard, or you may go shopping at Harrods or Harvey Nichols, where Princess Di used to shop. Like music? From symphonies to musicals, you will find something that you enjoy. In this financial and cultural capital, the list of possibilities goes on ad infinitum.
Easy to reach, London has five international airports and a large shipping port. People from diverse ethnic groups make London, giving the city a special energy and special culinary delights.
If London has a weakness, it might be the weather: mild but damp year round. However, nothing will dampen your enthusiasm for the many theatre and other opportunities and activities the city offers. Whatever you do in London and whichever London hotels you choose, your stay is sure to be memorable!
