With the closing ceremony of the 2012 Olympic games, London has once again reminded us what the city has to offer. From medieval kings, queens, to the formation of democracy, London has experienced a long history, which further highlights the attraction of the city itself.
To have 48 hours to visit London, there are several options to make the best out of it. In order to save money and time, the British government imposed a new privilege card – the London Pass, which provides a free pass to 55 of the top tourist attractions, museums, sights and tours in London with an additional 10 percent discount. The card also allows skipping of queues, saving both time and energy and frustration. To put tourists’ minds at ease, the card includes insurance, just in case the card is stolen, lost or broken. Although they do charge a little for the services, but for those who yearn for the extra protection, this is the best way to travel safely and on a reasonable budget. The website for the pass designed an application filled with the top attractions, tours and dining areas. One of the privileges of having the card is getting discounts in selected restaurants in London. Free wines, ice creams, up to 50 percent discounts are available in fine dining areas such as Azzurro, Little Sicily etc.
As the children’s rhyme goes, ‘London bridge is falling down…’, no one can complete their visit in London without visiting the famous London Bridge. Another bridge with almost as widespread reputation is the Tower Bridge. Named after the London Tower, this bridge consists of hydraulic systems that enable the lifting of sections between the bridge to allow ships to cross. Recently, in conjunction of the Olympic games, the bridge is decorated with lights that illuminates the night beautifully as well as a set of suspended Olympic rings. To complete the Tower Tour, one must visit the Windsor Castle. Nick-named the round tower, Windsor castle houses the royal family and boasts a history of a thousand years. The castle is busiest during the morning, so tourists are advised to arrive at about 11.30 to start touring around the State Apartments, Drawings gallery, Queen Mary’s Doll House and St George’s Chapel.
Other than bridges, London is filled with gothic churches that is sure to satisfy any renaissance fanatics. One of the most famous churches of all, the Westminster Abbey, is known for the ceremonies that united so many generations of the royal family of Britain. Princes Diana and Prince Charles, as well as Prince William and Kate Middleton took their vows in the sacred altar of the Abbey. Another impressive church is the St Paul’s Cathedral, where the dome rests 111 meters above London. From the crypt to the golden gallery, the cathedral has much to offer. Every Sunday, the cathedral also organizes different art, music and cultural performances.
To fully visit London in 2 days is not an impossible task, you just need to plan carefully to avoid wasting time and missing out on the delights of the city. With the privilege London Pass, one can dine, visit, and explore the nooks and crooks to make it a memorable trip.
Mike Lewiss writes for http://www.2020london.com/. He shares his passion about travelling and making the most of your stay in London.