A couple of frantic days of scurrying here and there to briefly admire the virtual storehouse of antiquities and modern opportunities nesting quite comfortably side by side, is not long enough for a cultural tour of the grand old city of London. Whoever you are, choose one of the many fine London hotels, settle in and allow yourself time to get to know the amazing people, city and the history. The list of things to do and places to see is only limited by your time frame and particular interests; but London definitely has something for every taste and every age.
Since getting your accommodations lined up is the first step, whether you’re budget conscious, business-minded or historically inclined, London hotels offer all the choices you need. Luxury can be found in both very modern new facilities as well as lovingly restored older buildings. Traditional British hospitality rules everywhere, regardless of the setting. London offers bed and breakfast inns, modern business accommodations and “boutique” hotels. You’ll also find that there are hundreds of London hotels scattered around the city so it may be worth thinking about the attractions you want to see and the things you want to do before you settle on which area to stay in.
The first question is what to explore first, once you are settled. London zoo has 600 species covering 36 beautiful acres, children love it. Eat at one of the cafes or take a picnic lunch. The Sea Life London Aquarium can entertain for hours with a collage of sea creatures from all over the world. Older teens love Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum and Ripley’s Believe It Or Not. The London Eye, the world’s very largest observational wheel can give you an incredible bird’s eye view for as many as 25 miles away, on a clear day. Then there’s the British Music Experience, an opportunity to attend workshops and concerts and interact with exhibits.
London has a fascintaing history which perhaps you have been drawn to. You’ll want to take a river cruise and maybe visit Tower bridge. You can choose between an exhilarating RIB Tour in a 12-seater rigid inflatable boat that will have you flying down the Thames at 30 knots, or the sedate and leisurely ones. Either way, you’ll come to appreciate the role of this important river in the history of London. See the royal arms and a vast armour collection with a trip to the Tower of London. London has numerous museums with continually rotating displays.
