“When a man is tired of London, he is tired of
life,” wrote the 18th century English writer
Samuel Johnson. While the weather may be
dreary—the city’s constant drizzle and fog
are legendary—there’s still much truth to
Johnson’s words today. London, a multicultural
metropolis of 14 million on the banks of the
River Thames, has so much going on that it’s
impossible to feel bored there.
London is often associated with its
famous historical landmarks like the Palace of
Westminster, home to Big Ben and the Houses
of Parliament, and the Tower of London,
where the Crown Jewels are kept and many
nobles were imprisioned and executed. Of
course, no trip to London would be complete
without watching the changing of the guard
at Buckingham Palace and browsing the vast
collections of the British Museum—both of
which are free! And when you’ve had enough
history, you can take a ride on the London Eye
or check out modern architectural wonders like
the Shard and the Gherkin.
London, host of the 2012 Summer
Olympics, also has a proud sporting tradition.
Wimbledon is held just outside the city every
summer, attracting tennis fans with both
world-class play and the event’s signature
dish of strawberries and cream. And why
not catch a match of football, rugby or
cricket in the place these games were
invented? Or if sports aren’t your cup of
tea, you can head to the West End for a
bit of theater.
Last but not least, take a red double-decker bus to
Har rods, arguably the world’s finest department store.
While there, pick up a souvenir teddy bear and enjoy
afternoon tea, a British tradition. It’s impossible to drink
in all London has to offer in one visit, so plan on
making more trips to this city like no other.
