Falling for London All Over Again

If this blog helped you dream about a London trip years ago, welcome back. I seem to have taken a rather extended holiday from updating it myself.

I'm James WJ Wilson. After time in Budapest and a long break from these pages, I'm back in London and looking at the city with fresh eyes.

I'd like this blog to help visitors build a stay around the things they enjoy: neighbourhoods, exhibitions, performances and places to eat or stay. The older articles remain part of its history; new recommendations will be checked for current details.

Some of the best travel experiences begin with a small recommendation: a street, a café, a performance, a place you would otherwise have walked past.

Thanks for being here over the years. Let's fall for London again.

Planning a Vacation in London?

If you are planning a vacation in London then we have the best places mapped out for you. There are some things that you need to know before you visit London. I guess everyone you know who has visited London before and talked about their trip with you has said, "I wish I had known...".

Well to make life easy and to save you from trying to remember a half baked conversation you had two years ago we have created the perfect planning companions.

No they aren't a sort of Christopher Columbus beagle and a penguin with a good sense of due north, they are our London blog and London guide!

London Art Galleries Report Soar In Downturn

Visitor numbers at London art galleries and London museums hit record levels this summer as the recession led more people to holiday at home.

Half of all museums and galleries in Britain - and two thirds of the free national institutions in London - saw an increase in visitors, according to figures released today. A fifth saw a rise of at least 10 per cent.

Gallery shops and cafés enjoyed a corresponding rise in takings despite the downturn. More than half the national museums and galleries benefited from higher trading income.

The London galleries have escaped the worst of the funding cuts affecting local authority-run institutions, but two thirds have been badly hit by the fall in investment income.

Museums surveyed by The Art Fund charity said the cuts were hitting home just as running costs were climbing with 30 per cent spending more than the same period last year, thanks to rises in expenses such as utilities.

Former Baywatch Star Pamela Anderson to Appear in Panto as Genie at Wimbledon Theatre in London

There are rumours that former Baywatch beauty Pamela Anderson has signed up to play Genie in the New Wimbledon Theatre's panto production of Aladdin this Christmas in London.

This follows recent newspaper reports that Ms Anderson is facing bankruptcy and living in a trailer park which means taxis and tequila not limos and Champagne for the busty blond.

Recently the 42-year old has also hit the catwalk in her trademark Baywatch red swimsuit for Richie Rich's AMUSE fashion show.

Pammie will star in the production for two weeks from 13th to 27th December. The cast also features actor Brian Blessed as the evil Abanazar.

X Factor Star Leona Lewis Attacked at Piccadilly Book Signing

X-Factor celebrity Leona Lewis was rushed to hospital on Wednesday afternoon after being slapped in the face at her own book signing in Central London.

The crazed ‘fan’ who attacked the singer waited patiently in the queue at Waterstones Piccadilly before launching himself at 24 year old Leona - but only after she had signed his book.

Security staff quickly restrained the thug while police arrived before the star was taken to a Harley Street Medical Clinic.

A spokeswoman said “Leona’s understandably badly shaken and apologises to the fans she was unable to meet and complete signings for.”

London Bar Inspired By '50s Celeb Grace Kelly Opens

Grace, a new West End club/bar/restaurant, is set top open this Thursday 15th October on the site of the Sugar Reef bar and restaurant on London's famous Great Windmill Street.

Named after the legendary glamorous film star Grace Kelly - a celebrity of 1950s stage and screen - it is said to take after her elegance and beauty. It looks likely to be a popular spot for pre-theatre dining, office lunches and after-work drinks, as well as offering a dazzing dance floor and bar for London's party people.

Phantom of The Opera Sequel Unveiled

Andrew Lloyd Webber launched the long-awaited sequel to his global hit Phantom of the Opera last night, which sees the action transfer from Paris to a New York fairground.

'Love Never Dies' was unveiled at Her Majesty's Theatre in London, where 'Phantom' opened 23 years ago this week, launching a theatrical phenomenon which has been seen by some 100 million people worldwide.

The new production, which will open next year, picks up the story a decade on as the Phantom has moved from his lair in the Paris Opera House to haunt New York's Coney Island.

Iranian-born Ramin Karimloo will star as the Phantom, having already played the role in the "Phantom of the Opera" on the London stage.

Forbidden London blog updated

Check the Forbidden London blog for the latest news on what to do in London.

Russell Brand Back From Holiday And Back Causing Trouble

Celebrity lothario Russell Brand may have just returned from his romantic holiday with pop star Katy Perry - but according to gossip mongers, he appears to be keeping his options open.

The notorious Casanova was spotted taking not one but two young female friends back to his London home yesterday.

Brand was still sporting the tan from his romantic Thailand holiday with the I Kissed A Girl singer as he arrived.

Royal Academy of Arts Exhibition

If you're in London between now and 11th December, and you are a fan of the London art scene, the Royal Academy of Arts is hosting Anish Kapoor's exhibition.

Expect paint splattered from cannons and art experts perusing the gallery, along with concrete sculptures and paint ball wars.

London Christmas Lights

This year, London will host a huge Dickensian Christmas celebration from November 3rd until January 5th.

The Mayor of London Boris Johnson has revealed that the world famous Christmas Lights on Regent Street and Oxford Street will, for the first time in history, not only be switched on simultaneously, but will share the same theme - 'Disney's A Christmas Carol'. At the same time, the City of London will join in the celebrations within the West End.

The Piccadilly Guesthouse - The Best Accommodation For London Clubbers

The Piccadilly Guesthouse is a new, modern, penthouse-style guest house, providing comfortable accommodation in the centre of London.

It offers a low cost, safe and convenient place for women to stay when visiting London England.

Based on the 5th and 6th floor of a modern block on historic Jermyn Street, it is moments from top London attractions, including the West End Theatreland, Piccadilly Circus, Buckingham Palace, Hyde Park, and Oxford Street.

Easily accessible via Piccadilly Circus, Green Park and Leicester Square underground tube stations, and just 15 minutes from Waterloo, the Piccadilly Guest House should be your first choice when planning a trip to London.

May Fair Hotel For London Fashion Week

For those of you travelling to the UK capital for London Fashion Week, try staying at a legendary hotel with an iconic past. The May Fair was opened by King George V in 1927 and has since became an A-list playground for the Hollywood set, as well as being the official hotel for London Fashion Week. The May Fair is once more one of London’s most talked about hotels. Lavish without being showy, dramatic without compromising on comfort and with service that’s attentive yet low-key, The May Fair whispers contemporary chic in the heart of the city.

Royal Opera House Makes Tweet Music

London's prestigious Royal Opera House has launched a bid to take high culture to the online masses by getting Twitter users to write the lyrics to a new work, line by line.

The Royal Opera House, in London's Covent Garden district, launched the attempt last week, inviting users of the micro-blogging website to take the story forward in 140 characters or less, much like a children's party game.

When the work is finished, the plan is to set excerpts from it to music, for performance in Covent Garden as part of a special event in September.

Go Batty In London

London has much to offer with its nightlife, so why not take a walk on the wildside? This Thursday, the London Wetland Centre is doing its annual Big Batty walks. You get armed with an Echolocator (a device that detects the high-pitched squeek bats use to navigate) and a torch to discover some of the creatures of the night by the fantastically beautiful lagoons. You will also find the usual signs of civilisation as the centre has its own restaurant which serves fresh hot and cold food throughout the day, and a shop.

The centre is found down Queen Elizabeth Walk in Barnes, nearest tube stop is Hammersmith and then a "duck bus", or easily reached via the A3.

Summertime... And The Living Is Easy

With most of the high-living, jet setting glamourous party people of London away in Ibiza and Cannes, what is there to do in this great city of ours over the summer?

The list is endless... you could take a boat along the Thames, go up in the world by taking a trip on the Millenium Wheel, visit a museum, or perhaps go to Madame Tussauds. If you are more of a nature lover or a bird-spotter like Springwatch celebrity Chris Packham, then visit the London Wetland Centre or one of the many beautiful parks: Richmond Park (which has some fantastic lakes to while away the hours in the sunshine), Hyde Park, or the spectacular gardens in Regents Park that reseamble a tropical paradise this time of year. The only limit is your own imagination, so what are you waiting for?

Princess Beatrice Enjoys Wild Night At Boujis Nightclub

Britain's Princess Beatrice has been seen looking unfashionable after a night of partying with friends. The 18-year-old princess - the daughter of Prince Andrew and ex-wife Sarah Ferguson - had clearly enjoyed herself at London's exclusive Boujis nightclub on Saturday.

Sources claim the redhead - who was without 24-year-old boyfriend, Dave Clark - stumbled out of the club at 3:15 a.m. and was barely able to focus.

Forbidden London can help arrange guestlist and table bookings for the most exclusive clubs in London's West End, such as Boujis nightclub and Café de Paris.

How about a night at the beautiful Crystal London or table service at Amika club? Contact Forbidden London now.

British Fashion Model Hopes To Date Prince William

Britain's Prince William has received a marriage proposal from topless model Michelle Bass. The former U.K. "Big Brother" contestant has set her eye on the newly single 24-year-old prince - who ended his four-year relationship with Kate Middleton last month - and hopes to be Britain's first pin-up princess.

The 26-year-old reality TV star told Britain's Daily Sport newspaper: "I saw Prince William in Boujis club once and he looked gorgeous. Now he's single I'm hoping our paths will cross again.

To arrange guestlist or table bookings for the most beautiful clubs in London's West End get in touch with Forbidden London. Spend a night in the exquisite Punk club, or how about partying at Movida London?

Forbidden London can help get you and your friends into exclusive clubs like Volstead and Café de Paris London, get in touch now.

Waldorf luxury hits London

WALDORF Astoria hotels have arrived in the UK. Parent company Hilton have bought London’s Bentley Hotel and relaunched it under their luxury brand.

The Kensington Hotel features a stunning spa with a Turkish Hamam. Simon Vincent of Hilton said: “The Bentley London is synonymous with style and opulence, offering its guests a truly world-class hospitality experience.

“This, now coupled with The Waldorf Astoria Collection brand, provides a powerful combination, as we look to add to the existing 171 hotels within the Hilton family across Europe.”

Limo Hire in London

Forbidden London will be introducing our London Limo Hire service in February 2009.

Recommended London restaurants

If you are visiting London Clubs or staying at a London hotel why not grab something to eat from one of the best restaurants in London. Abracadabra Restaurant London, designed by the owner, David West, as an opulent playground for the rich, Abracadabra takes you on a bizarre journey into the mind of an eccentric millionaire.

Recommended! Boisdale of Belgravia London, is situated in an elegant Regency town house, just north of Buckingham Palace Road and a short stroll from Victoria.

It's bars, restaurants and private dining room are open on weekdays and Saturday evenings and offer a selection of menus to suit every budget.

Visiting London on vacation - A guide to the central London

Planning to visit London? Well hold on to your hats because you're in for a bit of a ride; prepare with a read of our guide!

From Michelin-starred restaurants to luxury hotels in the heart of Mayfair, London has among the best in the world to offer the discerning traveller with a taste for the finer things in life. Whether it's a vacation or a business trip to London with a bit of personal time squeezed in, you can be sure you'll find plenty to keep you entertained.

For 5-star luxury and convenience, head to The Ritz on Piccadilly for your accommodation. This magnificent Mayfair hotel overlooks Green Park, and is probably one of the most famous hotels in the world. Alternatively, check out Claridge's, the grand, beautifully restored art deco hotel.

With no fewer than four in-house restaurants to choose from including one run by internationally acclaimed chef Gordon Ramsay you'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to dining, without even leaving the premises.

Just minutes away is the upmarket shoppers' havens of Bond Street and Oxford Street where you will all the latest designer and high-street fashion. Read more...

After a few drinks why not get in touch with Forbidden London and get exclusive no 5 cavendish square club guestlist entry on 0845 0945 195.

London is one of the best night spots in the world, get in touch for more information on No. 5 Cavendish Square entry, guestlist and table bookings.

Limo Hire in London

Forbidden London will be introducing our London Limo Hire service in February 2009. To be amongst the first to know please sign-up for our newsletter using the simple form below. Click here…

Recommended London restaurants

Recommended restaurants in London

If you are visiting London Clubs or staying at a London hotel why not grab something to eat from one of the best restaurants London has to offer.

Abracadabra Restaurant London, designed by the owner, David West, as an opulent playground for the rich, Abracadabra takes you on a bizarre journey into the mind of an eccentric millionaire. Recommended!

Boisdale of Belgravia London, is situated in an elegant Regency town house, just north of Buckingham Palace Road and a short stroll from Victoria. It's bars, restaurants and private dining room are open on weekdays and Saturday evenings and offer a selection of menus to suit every budget. Read more...

Visiting London on vacation - A guide to the central London

Visiting London on vacation - A guide to the central London

Planning any trips to London? Well hold on to your hats because you're in for a bit of a ride; prepare with a read of our guide!

From Michelin-starred restaurants in London to luxury hotels London in the heart of Mayfair London has among the best in the world to offer the discerning traveller with a taste for the finer things in life. Whether it's a vacation or a business trip to London with a bit of personal time squeezed in, you can be sure you'll find plenty to keep you entertained.

For 5-star luxury and convenience, head to The Ritz on Piccadilly for your accommodation. This magnificent Mayfair London hotel overlooks Green Park, and is probably one of the most famous hotels in the world. Alternatively, check out Claridge's, the grand, beautifully restored art deco hotel.

With no fewer than four in-house restaurants to choose from including one run by internationally acclaimed chef Gordon Ramsay you'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to dining, without even leaving the premises.

Just minutes away is the upmarket shoppers' havens of Bond Street and Oxford Street where you will all the latest designer and high-street fashion.
If you're looking for quality hotels, Soho London is also an interesting place to stay. Read more...

The Strand Palace Hotel, London

The Strand Palace Hotel, London

The Strand Palace is one of the finest luxury hotels London has to offer for business and leisure guests. The hotel has recently undergone a refurbishment to the bedrooms, public areas, Strand Academy and Johnstons Brassiere.

Originally built as an Art Deco showpiece, the London hotel has been carefully modernised. If you're looking for an interesting and different hotel, but one that has all the modern features you've come to expect, then we recommend The Strand Palace. Read more...

Le Méridien Hotel, London

Le Méridien Hotel, London

Le Méridien Piccadilly proudly stands on nine floors, showcasing 266 luxurious bedrooms. Located in the heart of London's West End, the hotel is near the shopping district, theatres, parks and museums. In London, theatre shows are legendary, book to see a show now.

Regarded as one of London's finest hotels, guests can enjoy a traditional afternoon tea at the Oak Room Lounge, or indulge in the gourmet cuisine of the Terrace Restaurant and Bar.

We especially recommend the Terrace Bar, a classy place to start a night out in in the West End. For guestlist and table bookings to the top London clubs, get in touch with Forbidden London on 0945 0495 195. Alternatively, for the best restaurants in London, Mayfair is an excellent choice.

Swissôtel The Howard Hotel, London

Swissôtel The Howard Hotel, London

Swissôtel The Howard, London enjoys one of the best hotel locations in London, set in a quiet oasis just off the Embankment and overlooking the river Thames.

The London hotel is just a short walk from Covent Garden with its theatres, London restaurants, nightlife and shopping with world famous London landmarks and London Streets such as St Paul's Cathedral, The Houses of Parliament, Tate Modern, London Soho Street and the London Eye all within easy reach.

Swissôtel The Howard Hotels central London offers a contemporary yet elegant hotel which, with personalised service, provides the perfect setting for distinguished tastes. The hotel's staff of dedicated professionals caters to the needs of the discerning business or leisure traveller and ensures hotel guests have a memorable stay.

Shaftesbury Piccadilly Hotel, London

Shaftesbury Piccadilly Hotels, London

In the centre of London's West End, experience a new standard of excellence at the Best Western Premier, a boutique hotel that embodies a haven where you can be sure of warm traditional hospitality.

Our completely refurbished London hotel comprises of 67 brand new air-conditioned rooms all designed with comfort and relaxation in mind. A fantastic location, leaving you perfectly situated to explore the West End's vibrant and exclusive clubbing scene.

Some of the finest restaurants London has to offer are within a short taxi ride, come to London and experience real luxury living. If you fancy dancing the night away, then London clubs Mayfair can offer are unrivaled.

Busaba Eathai, Wardour Street, London

Busaba Eathai, Wardour Street, London

Busaba is one of the best restaurants London has to offer; a Thai flower. Eathai is a fusion of the words eat and Thai which is an appropriate name for a restaurant in London selling Thai food.

It replaces the term restaurant, which is often associated with formal dining establishments. Eathai represents a Thai casual dining venue near Oxford Street offering a single course eating experience devised to feed you with minimum fuss.

Radisson Edwardian Pastoria Hotel, London

The Radisson Edwardian Pastoria is a discrete and quiet four-star London hotel with friendly service and an exquisite location, between the National Gallery and Leicester Square.

The 58 rooms at the Pastoria Hotel, London reflect a warm ambiance. Larger deluxe rooms include upgraded amenities, such as extra work space and seating area.

We love this hotel here at Forbidden London, the perfect place to relax after a night partying in the West End. For hotels central London bookings, call 0845 0945 195.

The best London bars

The best bars in london

London is blessed with some of the best bars in the world. If you're on a shopping trip to London why not take the weight of your feet with a cocktail or glass of champagne in one of the bars in central London, Soho or the West End.

Zebrano Bar, Ganton Street London, is no ordinary venue or entertainment space. From the owners to the floor staff we have developed 'a can do' attitude ensuring whatever you or your clients requirements are we will not disappoint.

For the best London clubs guestlist and booking tables call 0845 0945 195.

The Savoy Hotel, London

Located on The Strand in the heart of the West End theatre district, The Savoy offers spectacular views of the river Thames.

This landmark hotel opened in 1889 and is still considered to be the place to stay in London. The London hotel's 263 rooms and suites, with Art Deco touches throughout, are elegantly appointed yet offer an extensive array of modern amenities.

The Savoy really is one of the most beautifully designed hotels in london, with the finest services available, world-class dining and ever-helpful staff. Central London hotels don't get much better, for bookings and trip planning contact Forbidden London.

Marriott London hotels in and near Mayfair

If you are visiting London Clubs and you are from outside Central London why not avoid the hassle of having to return home by staying at one of the 5 star London hotels in Mayfair.

Hotels like the Grosvenor Square Hotel - Marriott London, will give you top quality services and exquisite dining. Marriott offer a range of plush, exclusive hotels all over London, so you can't fail to find a convenient place to stay.

There are many hotels in london but the Grosvenor Square Hotel really stands out from the crowd, you won't fail to be impressed.

Celebrity Smokers 3 - Lily Allen

Lily, and her fag, and Miquita Oliver, and her fag, out in London's Soho area.
Maybe if she wants some privacy she should try giving up on National No Smoking Day.

Oxford Circus

Oxford Circus at the intersection of Regent Street and Oxford Street is a busy shopping area with major stores like Nike Town, United Colors Of Benetton and Miss Selfridge.Also of interest is The Handel House Museum in nearby 25 Brook Street Mayfair which also incorporates the former home of Jimi Hendrix at 23 Brook Street.

If your on vacation and looking for Mayfair hotels visit The Hotel London.

Celebrity Smokers 2

Model and celebrity Calum Best smoking outside of Amika night club in London.Maybe he should try giving up on National No Smoking Day.

For concierge at Londons VIP clubs while on your vacations contact forbiddenlondon.

Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge (above), was given its name because of its close proximity to the Tower of London. It was originally opened on 1894 and is a suspension bridge and bascule bridge combined to allow boats to pass freely underneath on the River Thames. Not only is it a famous landmark to walk or drive over but you can also visit the Tower Bridge experience, and walk over the high-level walkways between the two towers.

Photo club London provides professional photographers for hire on your London vacations.

Big Ben

When on vacation in London, there is one landmark that you can’t help but notice, and that it is Big Ben, not named due to it’s sheer size, but after the first Commissioner of Works, Sir Benjamin Hall. It is 315.9 feet high! It has four clock faces which are 23 feet squared and the minute hand alone, stands at 14 feet long and the numbers on the clock face are 2 feet tall.

Museums

The Britsih Museum (above).

Britain's vibrant and exciting capital city is home to many world-class museums and art galleries. There are over 300 to choose from, ranging from the traditional to the hi-tech.

The top 10 museums in London are:
1.The British Museum
2.The Science Museum
3.The Tate Gallery
4.The Victoria And Albert Museum
5.The National Gallery
6.The Imperial War Museum
7.The Natural History Museum
8.The National Maritime Museum
9.The London Transport Museum
10.The Museum Of London

Photo club London provides professional photographers for hire on your London vacations.

The Theatre

The Appollo Theatre (above) currently showing Rainman.

What vacation to London would be complete without a visit to the theatre or a West End musical ? With over 150 to choose from if you love the theatre you will love London.

Photo club London provides professional photographers for hire on your London vacations.

The Tower Of London

In the early 1080s, William the Conqueror began to build a massive stone tower at the centre of his London fortress. Nothing like it had ever been seen before.Through the centuries that followed, successive monarchs added to the fortifications.Today the Tower of London is one of the world’s major tourist attractions and a World Heritage Site, attracting over two million visitors a year from all over the world

The London Dungeon

In the dark and dingy underbelly of the capital the London Dungeon dwells, waiting to scare the life out of you and any willing visitors brave enough to cross the threshold. Confront your fears, face your worst nightmares and uncover the gory truth behind some of history's most horrific events!

Photo club London provides professional photographers for hire on your London vacations.

London Eye

Bring London to life with a flight on the London Eye.A breathtaking feat of design and engineering, passengers in the London Eye's capsules can see up to 40 kilometres in all directions.

Soho

Soho is an area in the centre of the west of London famous for its sex shops as well as its night life and film industry.

For concierge at Londons VIP clubs including Punk Soho, while on your vacations, contact forbiddenlondon.

Leicester Square

Leicester Square (above) in London is named after Sir Robert Sidney 2nd Earl of Leicester, who purchased four acres of land in St. Martin's field in 1630.In the middle of the Square is a small park, in the centre of which is a 19th century statue of William Shakespeare surrounded by dolphins.Leicester Square is the centre of London's cinema land and one of the signs marking the Square bears the legend "Theatreland".

For concierge at Londons VIP clubs located a stones throw from Leicester Square, while on your vacations, contact forbiddenlondon.

Trafalgar Square

Trafalgar Square (above), at the heart of London, is one of the city’s most vibrant open spaces. Home to Nelson’s Column, the square is rich in history and provides a platform for new artistic performances and events.The name commemorates the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.If your on a London vacation and you love art then be sure to visit the National Gallery in
Trafalgar Square.

Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey in London (above), makes a romantic day out with the one you love.
The abbey was first founded in 616 on the present site, later the stone Abbey was built around 1045–1050 by King Edward the Confessor.The present church, begun by Henry III in 1245, is one of the most important Gothic buildings in the country.There are around 600 monuments and memorial statues together with many gravestones and commemorative floor slabs, though these represent only a small proportion of the 3,300 people who are actually buried in the church and its cloisters.At Westminster Abbey on 23 July 1986, Prince Andrew, second son of Queen Elizabeth II, was married to Miss Sarah Ferguson.

Regent Street

Regent Street (above) is second only to Oxford Street for shopping.Running from Piccadilly Circus to Oxford Circus, where it becomes Upper Regent Street.The Christmas light displays are a London tradition, with a "celebrity" being chosen annually to ceremonially light them up.

Jermyn Street

Jermyn Street dates back to 1664 and has flourished as a world renowned centre for gentlemen’s fashion, especially bespoke shirts. Now it has extended its reach to include ladies fashion and to some of London’s most famous retail brands including perfumery, jewellery, antiques and art, footwear, fine wine and food, cigars and more.

The Crown Jewels

The Crown Jewels have been kept at the Tower of London since 1303 after they were stolen from Westminster Abbey.After the coronation of Charles II, they were locked away and shown for a viewing fee paid to a custodian, this arrangement ended when the Crown Jewels were again stolen after the custodian was bound and gagged.Today the Crown Jewels are kept in a Jewel House at the Tower of London, opened by The Queen in 1994.

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace (above) has served as the official London residence of Britain's sovereigns since 1837.Today it is The Queen's official residence, with 775 rooms, which include areas of Buckingham Palace open to visitors on a regular basis.

Why do people love london vacations ?

Could it be the fabulous night clubs in london, which abound with famous faces, including the young Royals, partying with the best djs.Is it the chic and friendly clubbers, and professional club promoters who can grant entry into the prestigious members only vip clubs ?
Or maybe its the extravagant london hotels, many of which still have smoking rooms available, a rare luxury after the no smoking laws.
Many would say the gastronomic delights available in the best London restaurants are on a par with any city in the world.
The Oxford Street shops enjoy celebrity clients, and Oxford Street is still the busiest shopping street in the world.There's also the famous London theatres and of course the world renowned Soho district, need I say more !
Whatever it is that makes people spend their vacation in London, keep returning !

Celebrity Smokers: stars who love a fag

This weeks smoking celebrity is Hollywood actor Stephen Dorff seen inhaling a cigarette at the Radio 1 studios in London on 6 October 2008.

Article published by www.nowmagazine.co.uk

Maybe he should try giving up on National No Smoking Day.

Madame Tussaud's London

Kylie Minogue Waxwork (above) as displayed at London's Madame Tussauds Wax Museum
Meet James Bond,visit the chamber of horrors,meet your favourite celebrity or meet the Royals.

Oxford Street

Europe's busiest shopping street Oxford Street is home to major department stores and numerous brands' flagship stores (used for celebrity launches), as well as hundreds of smaller shops. It is the major shopping street in central London.

St. James's Park

Within 5 minutes walk of Piccadilly, St James's Park is a place you can get peace in the city you love, London.
St James's Park is the oldest Royal Park in London and is surrounded by three palaces. The most ancient is Westminster, which has now become the Houses of Parliament, St James's Palace and of course, the best known, Buckingham Palace.In the thirteenth century a leper hospital was founded, and it is from this hospital that the Park took its name. In 1532 Henry VIII acquired the site as yet another deer park and built the Palace of St James's.

Hyde Park

Hyde Park London (above) an area of peace and tranquillity, where smoking is still allowed and the photography opportunities abound for people on London vacation.
Around the time of the Domesday Book, about 900 years ago, the area that became Hyde Park was part of the Manor of Eia and belonged to monks from Westminster Abbey.
In 1536, King Henry VIII seized the manor from the monks, he sold some of the land but turned the rest into a vast hunting park.The appearance of the park remained very much the same until 1625 when Charles l became king and created a circular track called the Ring where members of the royal court could drive their carriages.The park was opened to the public in 1637 and it soon became a fashionable place to visit.

Too Cool Britannia

Lonely Planet Guide to London has decreed that the capital is 'the place to be right now'.

Published by www.independent.co.uk
February 5th 2004

Why you fall in love

As well as physical attraction, many people are drawn to someone who shares the same interests.Why do we fall in love with some people and not with others.

Article published on www.bbc.co.uk

London Sights

St. Paul’s Cathedral London (above) was built between 1675 and 1710, and is widely considered to be the crowning achievement of Sir Christopher Wren.



For over 900 years the Tower of London (above) has dominated the city of London and has seen service as a royal palace, prison, armoury and even a zoo!

Ripley's Believe It or Not!

Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum opened on Wednesday 20th August 2008. It is located in Piccadilly Circus.

Article published by www.bbc.co.uk

Piccadilly Circus

Piccadilly Circus was created in 1819 and the tube station opened in 1906.The statue was the first in the world to be cast in aluminium and is set on a bronze fountain,it is generally believed to depict Eros, but was intended to be an image of his twin brother, Anteros.

Dreaming of London Vacations?

If you are planning a London vacation, or a holiday as we Brits would call it, then you will be keen to party the best clubs in London; dine at the best restaurants; visit the best London streets - including Oxford Street and Piccadilly.

Love London Vacations is designed to help you organise (that's how we spell organize over here) your perfect trip. Whether you are looking forward to a luxury vacation or hoping to save your pounds we can help put together the perfect package.

We will be recommending and reviewing top tourist attractions including the London Eye.

The main focus of the guide will be London's West End including Soho and Mayfair.

We will also be helping you stay safe on London's Streets by avoiding being shot by the Police or stabbed by a nutter or crazed youth pretending to be a gang banger.