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Freitag, 31. Oktober 2008

London - The City Adventure


I just wanted to share one of my travel experiences I made in spring this year. I went to London the first time and can only say it's one of the most amazing cities in the world!

I found myself with some free time so I decided to fulfill a lifelong dream of visiting jolly old England. Knowing that I wouldn’t have enough time to do the entire country justice, I figured that for my first trip across the pond, a jaunt to London would be a great way to introduce me to the wonders of this merry country.

We’ve all seen London in television and movies with its double decker buses, crowded streets, stunning palaces and of course the tube. I was ready to start my adventure.

From my research, I determined that six or seven nights would be a tantalizing introduction. I was dead set on seeing Buckingham Palace; experiencing some nightlife and of course…eating fish and chips!

Although London is a great place to go anytime of year, I chose the spring and thankfully, I had terrific weather (with very little rain!!). Your absolute best bet for great weather is in July and August. But, hey, in England there is no guarantee of sun!

So after arrival I checked into the most quaint boutique hotel (by quaint I mean the room was tiny!!) They had the most helpful front desk staff that helped me plan my London itinerary.

I figured I’d spend much of my time exploring the city by foot. There are some breathtaking buildings and I was blown away by the history of the city. I was also struck by the dichotomy of the city. You will see chauffeurs and beggars standing on the same corner and proper ladies in stuffy hats sharing the sidewalk with punk rockers. I’m quite sure there is no place like it in the world!

Oh yeah, if you go, make sure you partake in afternoon tea! I found it was a great way to relax after being on my feet for much of the day.

On my third day, I continued my adventure by viewing the changing of the guards. What a spectacle of pomp and circumstance! Check out http://www.changing-the-guard.com for dates and times.

After visiting Buckingham Palace, there are so many great sights to see. You can check out Big Ben, Parliament Houses, The Thames, and Trafalgar Square. If all that tradition is getting to be a bit much…stop for a beverage at the Hard Rock CafĂ©!

The rest of my vacation included visiting Westminster Abbey, St. Paul’s Cathedral and the National Gallery. The National Gallery is a must for any person who appreciates art – even a little! It houses one of the greatest collections of European paintings in the world. And…entrance is free! http://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/

The number of parks I encountered during my many walks pleasantly surprised me. The friendly clerk at the hotel told me that London has more parkland than most other capitals!

My trip to London would not have been complete without a trip on the tube. And true to form…it broke down! I must admit that I panicked for just a moment, but regulars on the train told me those train breakdowns are a common occurrence. In fact, they are so common because the tube is the most unreliable system…in the world! Breakdowns occur on average – every sixteen minutes!

Oh, I almost forgot the fish and chips! I actually went out twice to establishments recommended by locals. Duke of Cambridge has a Victorian pub ambiance with an extensive menu. I sat on the terrace and enjoyed a huge plate of traditional fish and chips! Great pub to visit with friends!

The Fish Shop on John Street is more upscale than your typical fish shop, but after a day of scouring London – you deserve a great meal in a nice place!

My trip to lovely London was unbelievable. From the regal sites, great galleries and rich history – I’m hooked. Research for my next trip is already underway and I hope to get a chance to experience even more of the city and experience the breathtaking countryside! You should too!

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