London is a great destination being both a metropolis with everything to offer or a good entry point to your European vacation. Should you wish to do London on the “quick” I would suggest taking the tube from the Airport into the city, finding a black cab. I pick a black cab over a ride app as drivers must pass intensive testing which is referred to as “the knowledge”. In order to pass this test and become a cabbie the driver literally knows “every street” in London. These driver are, in fact, the closest thing to google or waze in human form. If you “chat one up” you can get a tour of all the “spots” on the fly! I once did this and we took pictures at every stop…including me pretending to drive the cab. BIG FUN on a quick stop.
If you have time I would also highly encourage you to go to the theater district and find a same day ticket. If there are seats available you can see the show of your choice for half the price. While in London overnight I was able to take a cab into the city, tour around and catch the closing night (at least for most of the current cast) of Hamilton. It was spectacular. After the show the actors stayed and talked about their experience over the last few years and shared stories about the cast…Fantabulous…a new word I created after that highlight.
London loves its GIN and if you are a fan I would highly suggest you find a martini bar that specializes in a gin martini service. My highest recommendation is the Connaught Hotel in the heart of Mayfair village.
If you are looking for accommodations my newest recommendation is something I have just started to enjoy in large cities this year. The “hack” is to stay in a neighborhood of the city in a high-rise and live like the locals. I find it allows more room, a kitchen and the ability to check out the local community. As well if traveling with friends and family everyone gets their own bedroom and possibly bathroom too! If you get to know the door staff they can also be a great “concierge” with vast knowledge of their little hamlet in the city. My go to is Air BnB or a simliar site.
