How to Enjoy London

A vibrant, cosmopolitan metropolis of superb shopping, amazing landmarks and unmatched theater life, London can be almost overwhelming in its bounty of activities. By limiting your sightseeing to a few essential stops, you'll free up time for the city's culture, cocktails and even cuisine.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. If you only take in one museum in London, make it the British Museum on Great Russell Street. You'll not only be awed by works from masters such as Goya, Michelangelo, Raphael and Rembrandt, but have the chance to see priceless wonders like the Rosetta Stone and Black Obelisk. Set aside at least half a day for this amazing attraction.

2. It would be an impossible task to explore even half of the city's incredible shopping areas, so pick one or two hot spots and shop 'til you drop. Harrods is a spectacular shopping institution on Brompton Road, offering everything imaginable at its hundreds of departments. It's also a perfect place for lunching, with numerous restaurants and pubs, plus some very enticing food courts.

3. For a delicious meal in a charming setting, head to Maggie Jones' on Old Court Place in the Kensington district, where perfectly prepared English standbys like steak and kidney pies make up the bulk of the fare. For a more regal splurge, stop by one of world-class chef Gordon Ramsay's superb restaurants--you can feast on peerless continental cuisine at Gordon Ramsay at Claridge's on Brook Street, or savor mouthwatering French fare at Gordon Ramsay, on Royal Hospital Street.

4. Set aside a few hours for Westminster Abbey--simply one of the most stunning cathedrals in the world--and its nearby cluster of iconic sights. Within a few minutes' walk you'll encounter Parliament/Big Ben and the London Eye, the towering ferris wheel providing breathtaking views of the city.

5. It would be criminal to spend several days in London without taking in a play, as the city is truly the theater Mecca of the world. The Royal Drury Lane Theatre on Catherine Street is an acclaimed venue usually offering a hit show; for something more off-beat consider the ICA Theatre at The Mall, presenting innovative works and also offering a pub, a nice bookstore and more.

6. Imposing Buckingham Palace is good for a short stop to take some pics, watch the 'Changing of the Guard' ceremony, and do some people-watching. Kensington Palace is another worthwhile grand edifice, set amidst lovely grounds and often hosting a special exhibition open to the public.

7. In fair weather, take an excursion into Hyde Park, where a large lake--Serpentine--alive with activity awaits, plus hundreds of acres of pastoral lawns, ponds and flowers. The legendary Speakers Row has attracted opinionated orators for centuries, and taking in a debate between one of these speakers and the ever-present peanut gallery of critics can be a hoot.

Tips & Warnings

• Try to find lodging relatively close to the city center, and not on London's outskirts, which would entail an expensive cab ride or subway journey at least twice a day.
• As in any large metropolis, be cautious about walking alone after dark.

[chicaandjo]

on 4/29/2008 We loved the Tower of London. A bit pricey on the tickets so try to find them at a discount but worth every pound we paid.