United Kingdom

Home to royalty, the Tower of London, black cabs and seven million people, England's capital is a wonderful conglomeration of lifestyles, culture and history.

The smallest of England's nine regions, Greater London is the country's busiest destination - in 2004, London's airports processed more than 120 millon people. Its ethnic diversity is one of the things that draws newcomers from overseas and those visitors, whether staying for weeks or years, add to the city's compelling cultural mix.

Often likened to a collection of villages, London is full of 'locals' - clusters of local shops, pubs, markets and parks - that support a strong sense of community for such a populous city.

London is easy to get around, with an efficient road network and extensive Underground, train, bus and taxi services - there are about 21,000 licensed taxis, including the black cabs that come in 12 colours!

Central London encompasses most of the city's main attractions, theatres and restaurants, most within walking distance of each other. With a basic city map, you can easily find your way around and take in some sights.

The River Thames divides the city into northern and southern halves, while diverse East and lavish West London add their own distinct personalities to this compelling city.

Almost a quarter of England's restaurants are in London, and with more than 6000 to choose from, you're bound to find something to suit your palate and pocket. Soak up the cosy atmosphere of a traditional pub, stretch your pounds during happy hour at a jazz bar, indulge in first-class rooftop dining at the Oxo Tower or go posh with afternoon tea at the Savoy.

Pubs, nightclubs, cinemas, theatres and comedy clubs keep funlovers entertained every night of the week. Enjoy a performance at the Royal Opera House or go clubbing and brush up on your disco steps or mellow out to jazz.

Include an empty suitcase in your luggage because you'll want to shop! London has more than 40,000 shops, and the variety is enormous. Hunt for bargains in one of the city's 83 major street markets or go executive with a personal shopper at Harrods.

With more than 200 free attractions, sightseeing in London can be easy on the wallet. Take a free guided tour of the Tower of London and discover its 900-year history as a royal palace, prison, mint, menagerie and jewel house.

Take a ride on the iconic London Eye for a bird's-eye view of a city with 17 national museums and many more galleries. More than 30% of London is made up of parks and green space, greater than any other city of its size. The most famous park is Kew Gardens, which is one of four World Heritage Sites in the city - the others are Palace of Westminster, Tower of London and Maritime Greenwich.

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Must do in London

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