More than Meets "The Eye"
After New York, London is probably Savvy Navigator’s second-favorite city, and the vibe of the city is quite similar. A financial and cultural capitol of Europe, long-gone is the reputation of bad food and warm beer. There’s a lot going on in this city and, like NYC, planning a visit can be overwhelming. Steeped in history and tradition, today’s London is the synthesis of taking the best of the past, incorporating into the present, while building for the future. While seeming stodgy on the surface, the city today is quite welcoming.
Sleep — flanking the river Thames in this one hundred and twenty year old English Edwardian luxury, The Savoy.
Experience — being a member of the audience in a BBC TV Show Taping.
Splurge — on a black tie evening at London’s Royal Opera House in Covent Garden. Enjoy a two course meal in the Amphitheater restaurant before settling down for a night of incredible musical entertainment with some of the world’s most accomplished performing artists.
Eat — at The Berkeley in Knightsbridge. Run by Marcus Weiring, former business partner of Gordon Ramsey, The Berkeley boasts a rooftop pool, fashion-themed tea and gourmet dining.
Afternoon Tea — Also on the banks of the Thames, afternoon tea in the lobby of the Corinthia Hotel is not to be missed.
Drink — from a choice of nearly 200 beers at London’s Euston Tap, an inconspicuous but character-filled bar right in the heart of the city. The space is snug, but you won’t notice that a few beers in to their mighty impressive menu…
Savor — the feel of London by strolling through the historic Hyde Park. Stop and smell the roses at the magnificent rose garden or sneak a peak at the Royals as you stroll past Buckingham Palace. Home to the famous Speakers Corner, where anyone can stand upon his or her proverbial soapbox and speak on any matter.
Visit — the Borough Market in Central London, one of the oldest markets in the country, and delight in the sights and smells of food from all over the world.
See — just about the whole of London from a height of 135m during a ride on the London Eye. Observe the world-famous landmarks and the hustle and bustle of this economic super city from one of the specially designed pods, boasting 360 degree views.
Shop — at Selfridges, the famous Department Store with the finest in everything from tea and ties to toys and tailored suits. Locals prefer Selfridges to it’s main competitor, Harrod’s, too!
Know — more about the beautiful world we live in by visiting London’s Natural History Museum, home to one of the world’s most impressive collections.
London Guidebooks:
1. Fabsearch operates in cities around the world and provides the ultimate travel and event guide from local trendsetters.
2. Afar takes all the hassle out of planning your trip by putting it all in one place. Plan where you want to stay, eat, drink, shop and be merry then save your itinerary to your smartphone. The site also comes with pre-planned excursions ranging from 1 day in the City to three or more.
3. JustLuxe is a city guide for those with a discerning taste. Featuring reviews, previews and news on the most exclusive events, restaurants, bars, clubs and theaters in London.
4. The official tourism site for the City of London, visitlondon.com is well known for their Top 10 lists in categories such as ‘Art Exhibitions’, ‘Photo Spots’, ‘Film Locations’ and more.
5. With customizable lists and the ability to buy discounted event tickets onsite, Timeout’s London guide is as comprehensive as it gets.
London, indisputably one of the world’s greatest cities, holds an abundance of culture and charm of days gone by under the rule of the Royals within this, the capital, of the United Kingdom. Arriving into London’s Heathrow Airport most certainly sets the tone and tempo for the vastness that is Britain’s most populous megalopolis.
illuminates with continually alternating video displays and neon signs plastered across the outer walls of the street corner building as it masquerades as Britain’s very own Times Square.
