It's probably from living in a rural sub-division that does it, but I love a good city. And London, it's a favorite. Since this is my third trip to London in eighteen months, I thought I would list (some of) my favorite things about London.
Getting around London is remarkably efficient. The underground trains go all over the city as do the buses above ground. I take the tube when I'm here--cabs are really expensive--and I use an Oyster card to get the best fare. My goal for my next trip to London is to learn to use the bus system; I think for short trips it might be quicker and less expensive.
TWO Museums
There are several museums in London to choose from and many of London's big museums are free. The British Museum is a favorite and one that I like to visit every time I'm in London. The big highlight (along with the big crowds) is the Rosetta Stone but the Egyptian mummies and Parthenon sculptures are not to be missed. Other favorite museums include National Gallery, V&A and the Science Museum.
THREE London Walks
Sometimes it's enough just to see the sites. Other times, it's nice to have all that content put into context. Get the history and the stories. London Walks can do that. All without booking ahead--just show up at the designated tube station.
FOUR Fortnum and Mason
Foodstuffs is my souvenir of choice for co-workers, my mom and the neighbor that takes out (and puts away) my trash cans while I'm gone. And it's what I like to bring back for myself. Teas, cookies, chocolates, and jams. And while the Food Hall in Harrod's is amazing for the sheer size and volume of food and crowds of people, I prefer the Ground Floor of Fortnum and Mason in Piccadilly. This store has beautiful window displays celebrating the Queen's Diamond Jubilee , a wonderful range of cookies and tea in pretty pale blue packaging and several restaurants in which to have lunch or afternoon tea.
FIVE Parks
London has five parks in the city center: Green Park, The Regent's Park, St. James's Park, Kensington Gardens, and Hyde Park. Kensington Gardens is my favorite with the beautiful formal gardens and lake. But any of the parks are a great place to relax and have a picnic or go for a walk.
