New York City has been described as the city that never sleeps, but you could easily apply the moniker to London as well. Since London was first a city, it has been teeming with life and anything you could possibly want to do can be done in the city’s center. A city so rich in tradition, activities, and history needs more than a cursory glance of course, but much of what the city has to offer can be experienced in a few day’s time. In fact, the history of London is a good place to start. The city’s history is rooted in everything from medieval times gone by to the crown jewels of the monarchy. It does not matter if you are a history buff or if you have not opened a book since elementary school social studies. London’s rich, full history is sure to interest everyone. A trip to London is not complete without a trip to the world-famous Madame Tussauds wax museum to visit the almost unsettlingly lifelike wax denizens inside. Be also sure to enter the London Dungeon to encounter the terrible dark side of the city. You will be able to see and learn about a side of London that few outside of the UK know about. The Tower of London is home to the crown jewels, and has been the scene for countless mysterious and fantastic tales. Bringing together art and history, you can see portraits of Britain’s most famous people throughout the centuries at the National Portrait Gallery. Then there is the British Museum, which houses one of the best archaeological collections of artifacts that you will find anywhere in the world. There are numerous small museums and art galleries sprinkled around the city center too, so be sure to leave some time spare in your schedule as you will undoubtedly come across some places that you will not be able to resist popping into. For the professional shopper, a stroll down Oxford Street is highly recommended. If the bustle of the city begins to wear on you, however, a stopover in Hyde Park brings the peace of the countryside to the city. Outdoor markets are one of London’s highlights, and you will find Portobello Market northeast of Hyde Park. London’s history does not exist only on the busiest streets. Charming side streets take the visitor to times past and to unexpected treasures such as Covent Gardens in central London. In the center of town, the London eye provides a bird’s eye view of the city and provides a comprehensive display of all that London has to offer. As day turns to night, it is time to catch up with some friends at the local pub. You are sure to find at least one beer on tap that will hit the spot. Once your thirst is slaked and you are properly hydrated, it is time to dance. An international city like London is brimming with clubs filled with all kinds of dancing; everything from techno, to trance, to hip hop can be found. You are sure to find a rave and some Latin and ethnic dancing too. You can also attend a rugby or football contest if one of London’s countless teams is playing.
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