London Vacations

Rating:
"This was not my first time in London, but it was my first time traveling there alone. I figured London would be a good city to see solo - they speak my language, there is plenty to do, and it's a place I'm somewhat familiar with.

For Europe "virgins", a must know is what to expect for accommodation. Hotels are not like they are in North America; the rooms are usually cramped and old and you will want to make sure you get your own bathroom before booking. The hotel I stayed in was in Harrow (Northwest London), but there was a Tube station about three minutes from my door. From there I could hop on an express train depending on the time of day and be in Central London in about fifteen minutes.

Speaking of the Tube, I would recommend buying a travel pass, also known as an Oyster card as it does work out to be cheaper , more convenient and then you'll never have to fish around for change. All the best things to see are in zones 1 and 2.

A couple of things I'd recommend are a day trip to Bath (you can take a train from Paddington station, it takes about an hour and a half each way). It is a charming town rich in history as most of England is and once you're there everything is in walking distance. Another great day trip is Brighton (about an hour from the Victoria station) to see the sea side and the pier.

I did a Jack the Ripper walking tour, which is really popular as we bumped into three other tour groups while doing ours. It was absolutely fascinating and worth the chilly weather. Also check out the British Museum (it's free!).

For shopping enthusiasts, Covent Gardens was my top choice. Make sure you walk farther than the very small part you see on a map (the shopping literally goes on forever). Old Spitalfields has a neat little open air market in the day time with tasty food, clothes and other nifty things. I wasn't fond of Camden Town as it felt a little like a garage sale to me.

I think it ended in London on October 30th, but if Avenue Q is still running for those heading there, check it out if you have a warped sense of humour! I saw Wicked as well, but the book is one of my all-time favourites so I found the musical to be a bit of a disappointment because the plot was so different from the book. If you enjoy musicals, the set and singing is definitely worth it.

One final note; if you're taking the Tube to Heathrow, allow yourself at least three hours and check for service disruptions or delays on the London transit website first. My first time in London I missed my flight because of delays and my most recent time I gave myself three and a half hours and still barely made it to check-in on time. If you don't want to risk it, take the Paddington Express from Paddington Station. It's expensive, but you're guaranteed to get to Heathrow on time! Also, make sure you check your departure terminal as it can be really confusing (Air Canada always flies out of terminal 3).

Hard to believe I did so much in six days, but as I said, there is so much to do and see in that wonderful city! Hope this was helpful and if you choose to travel to London, please enjoy!"
Reviewer: zwibby
Date: Nov. 02, 2010

Rating:
"Beautiful place! People were so good and helpful. Mind you it was expensive place but its worth going to the Palace, changing of the guard, wax museum, the historical places the building it was breath taking... we travelled in tubes (trains and double decker buses) I would love to go back but this time do the euro-rail and just enjoy each and every city if I could.. its worth it!"
Reviewer: 786110
Date: Apr. 12, 2009

Rating:
"London is a lively, exciting and busy city. Tons of things to do & see daily to fill your itinerary. From palaces, museums, & art galleries to shopping on Oxford St & Portobello Market, you will never have a dull moment."
Reviewer: Anonymous [via Escapes.ca]
Date: Sep. 22, 2008

Rating:
"Awesome!"
Reviewer: Anonymous [via Escapes.ca]
Date: Sep. 16, 2008

Rating:
"Getting there is no longer half the fun. The plane was full coming and going. Narrow seats, narrow aisles, minimum food. But it was on time both ways."
Reviewer: Anonymous [via Escapes.ca]
Date: Sep. 09, 2008

Rating:
"Love London. I keep coming back. So many sights, amazing (and free!) museums, beautiful parks and everyone in the tourism industry are genuinely pleasant and helpful. Where else can you get called 'my love' while purchasing tube tickets?"
Reviewer: Anonymous [via Escapes.ca]
Date: Jun. 16, 2008

Rating:
"London is a wonderful destination with plenty to do. Unfortunately"
Reviewer: Anonymous [via Escapes.ca]
Date: Apr. 16, 2008

Rating:
"London is a fabulous city - full of excitement, history, gorgeous parks, nightlife, and great shopping... they have it all there! Just wish I could afford to stay longer next time... London is a definite must see. "
Reviewer: Anonymous [via Escapes.ca]
Date: Feb. 01, 2008