2020 Bucket List: Next up – London


London is a place that everyone should see at least once in their life. It is the most visited city in Europe and offers too many attractions to cover here, so here are some highlights. The best time to visit is April through June or September through November. Traveling around the city is pretty easy and purchasing an Oyster card once there will allow visitors to take public transportation to each of the different districts. The city is an old one, in fact prehistoric, and as such, it has a layout that is organized and therefore easy to navigate. There are North, South, West and East London Districts with each offering their own set of unique experiences.

London city commuters walking by Westminster Big Ben.

The North District offers The British Museum, historic houses and shopping in the Mayfair at some of the best stores there. The East has art galleries and museums. The South runs beside the famous Thames River where visitors can take a cruise and leisurely take in the sites and sounds of the city. The West, Noting Hill and surrounding neighborhoods offer a taste of what it’s like to live as a Londoner.

Make sure on your list of places to see and do are Hyde Park, Westminster and Big Ben. In Camden for visitors in the market for a new tat, this is the place to certainly find it as it’s chock full of sub-culture shops and artists. Take a ride on the London Eye and see the city from a new perspective. In Soho, visitors will find by day a lovely, whimsical atmosphere of bakeries and delis sprinkled amoungst bars and shops, and by night, the red light comes to life with sex shops and speciality bars that cater to every decadence. In Hampstead Heath, visitors can pack a picnic and enjoy an afternoon in the sun reading Shakespeare or poetry, and if they’re inclined to appreciate art, the Kenwood House has an art collection not to be missed.

Buckingham Palace.

For those who enjoy photography, climb to the top of the O2 Arena and capture stunning panoramic views of the city where each attraction like the London Eye and House of Parliament and others can be captured. For shopping, Oxford Street is an absolute must with over 300 stores, including the famous House of Fraser. Visitors will absolutely want to go to Harrods, circa 1824, the famous department store that has been serving up luxury to royalty and those who want to feel like they are with themed floors and fancy foods for centuries.

The Savoy entrance on the Strand.

Places to stay in London range from simple bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels. Travelers can find accommodations to match any budget. Two hotels hat stand out are the Hotel 41, located in Westminster, and The Savoy, located on The Strand. Hotel 41 overlooks Buckingham Palace and offers a unique “Plunder the Pantry” service with anytime snacks and treats. The hotel has been awarded Forbes 5 Star rating with it’s 30 rooms and suites, and there guests will be treated like royalty in an intimate setting. The Savoy, a Fairmont-managed hotel, is an Art Deco lover’s dream, with its well-appointed accommodations of 268 suites and rooms with vistas offering panoramic views of London. For it’s sophistication and charming hospitality, the hotel has been awarded into the prestigious T+L’s “Top 500.”

London made it to the 2020 Bucket List because of it’s historical importance, distinctive charm and ability to offer experiences that are for everyone. Museums, shopping, great food coupled with unique attractions, a rich culture and history make it a must see.