Your Ultimate Travel Guide To London

Quick guide to planning a trip to London

If you are planning a trip to London there are many things you need to consider beforehand to make sure your stay is going to be as pleasant as possible. Here is a quick guide and checklist you can use to make arrangements and have a safe and enjoyable break.

1. Decide which season to travel in

You need to know that weather in London, just like in the whole UK is pretty unpredictable. No matter which month you travel you will need an umbrella. You need to make sure you are taking with you different items of clothing that can be easily taken on or off. And you will definitely need an umbrella and a raincoat. As rains in London can come with heavy winds, a raincoat can come handy.

2. See what's on in London you would not want to miss

There is always something going on in London, let it be a huge concert or an exhibition, festival, you need to review your options. Obviously you have to consider during events hotel prices can be higher, so you need to make travel and accommodation arrangements on time. It is also advisable that you will get all your tickets at the same time and pre-book anything you need to to avoid disappointments.

3. Car hire

The travel network in London is very good and you can get around using public transport. So unless you love traffic jams, you will not have to hire a car at all. All you need is a network map for buses and the Tube to get around.

Transport from the airport

Heathrow

· National Express buses are available from Terminals 1, 2 and 3. They take you to Victoria station and also operate a scheme that takes you to to 21 hotels near Heathrow for only £4.
· Heathrow Express is a rail service that is run non-stop between Paddington station and Heathrow. A cheap and fast alternative to get into the city of London.
· Underground services are also connected to Heathrow Airport. The average journey time to London center is about 50 - 60 minutes. You might want to purchase a Travelcard for Zone 6.

Luton

· Luton Airport shuttle bus runs between Luton Parkway station and Luton Airport every ten minutes between 05:00 and midnight.
· Luton Airport Train is taking you to Luton Parkway and there you can connect to different services.
· If you have a train ticket to Luton Airport the shuttle is included in the price.

Gatwick

· Terravision Shuttle Bus is running every 30 minutes between Gatwick and Victoria station in London center.
· Stansted also has its own train station under the terminal building. It runs every 15 to 30 minutes daily.

Accommodation In London

The good news is that London has thousands of hotels and you can find the most suitable one for every budget. There are a few hundred 5 star hotels as plenty of travellers' budget hotels as well. That is what causes the main problem for most tourists, if you do not know the hotels and the location you can easily get disappointed.

The first thing you have to do is to check out the location. You do not want to be too far from the tube stations, but obviously might want some peace as well. Depending on your budget and requirements you will have to choose and book a hotel in advance. The best way to go is to use a hotel comparison website to book the accommodation in advance or ask your travel agent. You can get great discounts for over 7 days' stay and also will get an overview of the hotel, with exact location.

Hotels in London usually take a booking deposit over the phone or on the Internet, and you have the right to cancel within 48 hours before the arrival date.

To avoid disappointment you might also want to check customers' reviews on London hotel review sites.

Transport within London

Getting around in London is easier than you think, unless you are planning to hire a car. It is full of one-way streets and you it might take you longer to get somewhere than by walk. Not to mention that some streets in inner areas are charging you a flat fee for driving in. But you will be able to get around using public transport, and Tube maps are widely available in every station making it easier to find your stations.

Depending on how many places you are looking to visit, you can buy weekly Zone passes at any Tube station. Just ask the person at the desk, which one would be the best solution. You can also buy combined passes for Tube and buses, but you might not necessarily need that to get around London.

Some Tube tickets are also on offer as a part of a package. You can purchase discounted entry tickets to the most popular London attractions and get a Zone pass included in the price. Just ask for information in advance, the earlier you buy these packages, the more you are going to save. The most popular of these packages is London Pass, which can be purchased for 1, 2, 3 or 6 days and can save you a lot of money.

What to see in London

London Eye and the Themes

It is the greatest feature of London. It is the highest observation wheel of the World with 32 capsules. You can jump on for a 30 minute sightseeing that offers you breathtaking views of over 55 of London's greatest landscapes.

Buckingham Palace

This is one of the most popular tours, and not available all year. You do have to check and book in time to avoid disappointments. You will be able to see how a real queen lives and get an introduction to royal customs, too.

British Museum

The greatest museum in Europe. It has exhibitions from the stone age to modern times, and entry is free. You need to be aware that extra strict security rules apply and you might also need to pay if you want to see special exhibitions.

National Gallery

National Gallery is located on Trafalgar Square and features the most famous western European paintings from the 13th to the 19th centuries. The greatest names of art like Van Gogh, da Vinci are all found here and entry is also free.

The Tower of London

The Tower has some great features and exhibitions are featured all over the year. This is where you can find the Crown Jewels. You can also walk through the East walk and enjoy the spectacular views of the city.

Madame Tussauds

At Madame Tussauds, you can meet the world's most famous faces. From Shakespeare to Britney, you'll meet the most iconic figures of showbiz, sport, politics Royalty. You can sing along with Kylie; shake hands with Rooney. You can even meet the Queen herself.

Victoria and Albert Museum 

It is one of the most famous features of London. This unique museum is featuring paintings, and the most remarkable Medieval Renaissance galleries with the most valuable surviving treasures from the era.

Big Ben

Big Ben is the clock tower of the Palace of Westminster. It took 13 years to build and was finished in 1856. The staircase goes up to the top level giving you excellent views. It also has several rooms, even a prison cell. The clock tower is not open to the public, however you can get great views to the Big Ben from the London Eye.

Activities in London

Family activities

If you are traveling with kids there are plenty of family day packages available in London. But if you are planning a day out on your own with children, your best choice is Horniman Museum. It has plenty of stuffed animals and an aquarium to keep children occupied. There are also Busy Bee activities designed for under 5's. Entry is free.

There is also a Peter Pan day out on offer in London with loads of places to visit, including London Zoo and the Great Ormond Hospital.

Culture

There are numerous theaters offering quality plays in London. You can find cabaret, drama, comedy, dance, ballet in London venues and some attractions have a special offer for a dinner included, so do go ahead and check out the offers that are the most appealing. The bad news is: it is not going to be an easy choice. West End is one of the best places to go and see the most popular musicals, and there is always a great ticket offer available through travel agents or ticket agencies.

The best places to look for tickets for comedy and Burlesque:
Bethnal Green Working Men's Cub
Bistrotheque
Comedy Cafe
Comedy Store
The most famous theatres in London are:
Shakespeare's Globe
Savoy Theatre
Victoria Palace Theatre

Night life

The best place to catch a glimpse of London's night life is to walk through the Soho at around half past eight. You will find plenty of offers for entertainment: burlesque, movies, night clubs, disco and comedy shows. The Soho is also full of traditional pubs and restaurants that will let you forget about the outside world and get a share of real British ways of entertainment.

Shopping in London

One can easily get addicted to shopping in London. With high quality shops and great brands for most tourists the main attraction is the number of shops concentrated in one street and the huge choice of brands and designer names. It is easy to get lost in the crowd, though and spend a whole day browsing different department stores in the city of London.

Oxford Street is a real Shoppers' paradise. You can find the largest department stores of H&Ms, Zaras, Urban Outfitters and large department stores such as John Lewis, Debenhams and Selfridges. You need to be aware of pickpocketers and the traffic when you are planning a shopping trip to Oxford Street.

If you are more interested in markets and local features, London can offer you just that as well. Camden Market in weekends is one of the busiest markets in Europe. You can find anything from flee market offers to clothing, fresh meat, vegetables and gifts. If you are looking to avoid the crowd, try to visit Camden Market on a weekday.

Warnings about traveling to London

London is one of the most expensive cities in the world. You also need to know that it is a multi-cultural European capital, that said you might come across many nationals from all over the world. To see the real Londoners' life you should aim to visit places less known to tourists.

You should be aware that you are likely to come across pickpocketers, beggars and you will have to build up a strategy to avoid them or defend yourself. Make sure you are keeping your money, valuables and handbag safe and never show off your whole batch of notes on the street. Keep a small amount with you and keep the rest safe.

Night life in London can be fun but also an absolute nightmare. Make sure you are planning ahead, booking everything from tickets, taxi, restaurant, especially if you are picking a busy time. It can get very busy and people can get aggressive in the crowd. So if you are not prepared make sure you are avoiding busy areas day and night.

Crossing the road can be a challenge for most non-British tourists. Although “look right” is painted on the road everywhere you still have to remind yourself if you are wanting to stay safe.

British Pounds is a currency that is changing value every day. Make sure that when you are planning your journey to London you will take care of the foreign exchange in advance, as it is much more expensive to do it at the airport or in the City.

Final warning: you need to make sure you do get in touch with your country's British Embassy to find out about any new regulations. Airports can have extra security alarms from one hour to another. Also immigration rules do change often, so better safe than sorry, you will need to find out everything before your travel to avoid nasty surprises.

Honolulu Academy of Arts

The Honolulu Academy of Arts, Honolulu, Hawaii

Address: The Contemporary Museum (Spalding House)
2411 Makiki Heights Drive
Honolulu, Hawai‘i 96822
808-526-0232

If you always wanted to become an artist, or were always interested in paintings and collections, the Hawaii internationally accredited and renowned institution is a perfect place to visit. The gallery has a huge collection of Asian art; from Japanese woodblock prints to Europe’s and America’s most famous artists.

Many great artists gained inspiration from the wonderful tropical island of Hawaii, and the Art To-Go program is designed to teach kids with a talent to paint, draw, or just become more creative. There are meetings locally every 12 weeks, and if you are interested in joining the club with your art lover child, you have to know that the places are limited. The school only takes on 12 to 20 students at a time, to make sure that kids get the tutors’ full attention.

If you want to see Doris Duke’s Honolulu home, Shangri La, there are fantastic induction tours arranged to the location. There are many courses and events organized at the house, and you can see the original scenery that inspired not only Doris Duke, but other great artist as well. Honolulu is one of the best places to get involved in painting and arts, and if you simply would like to know more about the different styles or history of painting and decoration, there are many courses held by professional artists with an education degree to join.

If you think that you are already a devoted artist, you can even join the artist-in-residency program. There are many famous painters on site, you can learn a lot from, and the gallery and Academy are open for new talents. You can join the program and learn from real artists, catch their moves and analyze their techniques. There are musicians and museum experts on site, as well, if you would like to study cultural management and other related subjects.

TESOL courses in Phuket

Language: TESOL courses in Phuket, Thailand

Address: Island of Phuket, Thailand, TESOL Training Camp. Contact: 10/5 Moo 1 Maenam,
Samui, Surat Thani, 84330, Thailand

The Thai Ministry of education accredited this fantastic TESOL course, which is also popular internationally. If you would like to teach English, you will need a certificate. Instead of learning it in your own country, you can go where the best teachers are and take part in a holiday for a lifetime at the same time. The fantastic island of Phuket is full of natural beauty, and it is one of the most unique landscapes of the world. You can focus on the nature and excursions, as well as the learning program, which is developed by TESOL professionals.

The island is located near the Andaman Sea. There is a bridge to Thailand’s mainland, and it is a real tropical wonder. You can participate in many professional and amateur water sports, diving and fishing, as well as traditional local activities, like elephant trekking or bungee jumping.

Learning has never been so fun before, and if you combine your course with a tour, you will remember the times and subjects better, for sure. There are highly qualified tutors and teachers on site, modern and clean accommodation, free Thai lessons and cultural sessions, and many more optional activities.

If you would like to explore the fantastic island, as well as Thailand and its culture itself, while obtaining a teaching certificate, you are going to like this option. There will be many people at your age, and friendships for a lifetime can be made. Not to mention that there are plenty of opportunities to teach English in Thailand, therefore, if you fall in love with the culture, traditions and tropical atmosphere, you can even secure a position with your fresh qualification in hand.

The basic courses are for four weeks, and you will have all the arrangements made including learning materials, travel and accommodation before you arrive. 

Floral Hall and Training Center

Floral Hall and Training Center, Inverness, UK

Address: Bught Lane, Inverness, Scotland IV3 5SS

This unique floral hall and coffee shop is a fantastic place to visit for people in love with plants and nature. It is located in Inverness, and has recently been graded a three-star visitor attraction. It also exhibits works of amateur artists from the local area. The venue also achieved a green apple gold award by the Scottish Government.

If you want to get to know more about the different plants and gardening in general, it is a fantastic place to start. Some projects are designed for people with disabilities (mental or physical) to get them the feeling of achievement. Social workers help people attend their own garden and special plants, and there is also a children’s workshop every year.

If you think about volunteering at this fabulous place or starting a career as a social worker, making people’s lives more bearable, there are different courses and workshops held here, in Scotland as well. You can become a trainee, and with the help of experienced trainee managers become one of those people putting a smile on others’ face.  You will not only learn how to plant and handle different plants, but find out more about people, who are less fortunate than you, too.

There are regular personality training and at work health and safety courses held in the Floral Hall Training Center. You can also obtain an apprentice greenkeeper certificate at an SVQ level, if you are interested in a career in gardening. The training is for two years.

You will be also amazed by the demonstration gardens and climatically controlled greenhouse, where you can admire some of the greatest and rarest plants on the planet. The landscaped areas are full of heather and rhododendron. The sculptures and water features will also make you feel at home and relaxed. 

Tatton Park

Tatton Park, England, North West

Address: Tatton Park, Knutsford, Cheshire, WA16 6QN, 

Tatton Park is one of the most complete estates from the Tudor era of Britain. The house is a neo-classical building, and it was the mansion of  Baron Egerton of Tatton and his ascendants. The estate has existed for over 400 years now, and its perfectly maintained, 50 acres of landscape gardening marvels will impress every visitor. There is also a 1000-acre deer park that belongs to the historic estate.

The last Egerton Baron left the while site to the National Trust, which has developed a learning center and conference facilities on site. There are loads people – not only kids- can learn about the park; from the events of the history to landscaping and wild animals.

There are regular courses held at Tatton Park, and there is high quality accommodation on the site, as well. People with a passion for a hobby can learn animal husbandry, they can take regular guided tours and walks, if they sign up for a full yearly membership. Archery sessions are also taught by professionals, as well as deer spotting.

There are fantastic holiday cottages on site, furnished with Laura Ashley’s creations. Two separate dairy apartments await couples looking for romance and learning activities as well.

If you would like to find out more about farming and people’s lives in the Tudor era of Britain, there are plenty of opportunities as well. Because of the high quality, information and education provided by the Park, based on the curriculum of the National Trust, children of primary schools from all over the country visit the park to either organize an adventure tour, or take part in one of the over one hundred events organized by the institution.

The Tatton Park Living History Society is a group formed from the regular visitors of the park. They are dedicated to create a Victorian atmosphere within the park and the mansion. They reproduce tools and original costumes.

Vinopolis London

Vinopolis: London's Wine Tasting Destination

Address: London, Vintry Thames Exchange, Thames Street, EC4R 3TB.

If you love learning about new wines, you might want to improve your knowledge about them. There are some fantastic wine tasting courses offered in London. The event is called Vinopolis, and you will not only find out more about the taste of wines and their origins, but can with time determine which type goes with various dishes. There are fantastic master classes, as well as wine tasting tours offered for interested wine euthenics. Still, if you would like to widen your horizon, you might want to know that there is a lot to learn about whisky and cocktail making, too.  

Vinopolis is just under the fantastic arches of an old railway Viaduct. It is a historical place, full of adventure, mysteries and things to explore. If you want to find out more about your favorite tipple ant its history, you can even sign up for monthly classes or longer courses, ending with a certificate.

This venue is truly amazing and suitable to hold wedding receptions, anniversaries and family gatherings as well. If you know somebody, who is interested in wine and tasting sessions, maybe they would like to improve their hospitality skills; there are some gift certificates available as well. You are going to like the shop with a huge selection of rare and fine wine for the satisfaction of really keen wine lovers.

The packages and monthly courses include free tasting and wines as well, so you are surely not going to go home with empty hands. Step into the historic London and explore the greatest vines from all over the world; grape types, procedures and traditions. The perfect location for tasting vines from all over the world is London, and there is nothing better than a glass of free wine, either. Get there and start your culinary journey to become a real expert.

Dog Training Course in Kenton Paw Park

Dog Training Course in Kenton Paw Park

Kenton Paw Park
3950 Madison Pike, Covington, Ky. USA

Dog parks are great for not only animals, but also their owners. They give them the opportunity to socialize, get involved in the local community and learn new training skills.  There is a packed calendar at the Kenton Paw Park, including doggie pool parties, activities, games and dinners for dogs and their owners. The location is fantastic, and this park was created on the famous Madison Pike in Kenton County. You can not only find great friends here, but loads of nature, facilities, such as a small dog area, benches, picnic tables and agility courses. There are many local veterinarians attending the events and courses to share their knowledge with dog lovers.

You can visit the on-site library and learn how to get your puppy’s attention by reading them relevant tales. Kids will also go and read to your dog, if you would like them to. Still, there are more to do at this venue than walking dogs; the beautiful scenery and great modern design of the park will not only amaze owners, but dogs as well.

If you have just got a dog and would like to get some professional advice or help, this is the best place to go. There are many agility courses and different levels of dog training courses. The best thing is that the prices are kept low, considering that, you get professional advice free, while attending a dog training course.

The Northern Kentucky Bluebird Trail is a real green initiative the park sponsors, and they currently have a couple of environmental impact projects going on. If you would like your kids to be aware of these issues, you should not leave them at home.

Kentucky offers more than recreation, and if you would like to enjoy great outdoors with your dog, the Kenton Paw Park will offer all the facilities you need. Further, there are other recreational programs and activities organized in the local parks as well.