From Heathrow to London, Where the Fun Begins!

As soon as your plane begins to descend towards the runway at Heathrow, you know that the excitement and vibrancy of London is not far away. Long flights can leave you tired and aching, but a city like this is enough to revitalise anyone! Whether you're visiting for business or pleasure, here's how to make the most of your trip to the capital.

First things first; you need to get from the airport into the city. We think that the best way to do this is by booking a Heathrow airport taxi. Much more comfortable and convenient than using public transport, you can find very competitive rates from the minicabs Heathrow airport has to offer. You can sit back and relax while you and your luggage are chauffeured right up to your destination.

There are hundreds of accommodation options to choose from in London, suiting all budgets. If you're looking for a cheap, short term stay, your best bet is to find a bed & breakfast or guesthouse outside the city centre. There are some beautiful, historic buildings that offer comfortable rooms at very reasonable rates. If a lap of luxury is more to your taste, try one of the 5* hotels in west and central London, such as The Dorchester or The Savoy. Here, you won't want for anything; you'll have the finest linen, the finest furnishings and facilities, as well as delicious food available to you. Be prepared to pay for these privileges though - they don't come cheap! For longer term stays, you may prefer a self catering apartment; these can be found throughout the city.

The nightlife in London's West End is hard to rival. There really is something for everyone here; plenty of theatres showing the biggest plays and musicals, music venues playing everything from jazz to rock (not to mention the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden), a huge range of restaurants with cuisine from all over the world, bars and clubs open all hours. You'll find cinemas and bowling alleys, comedy clubs and burlesque performances. You'll be spoilt for choice! If you want a taste as soon as you arrive, your Heathrow airport cab will be able to drop you off in the heart of the action.

The atmosphere can be quite different during the daytime. Visitors like to go to the street markets, or popular retail areas such as Oxford Circus. There are many free art galleries showing impressive exhibitions from classical and modern artists, and tourist attractions such as the London Eye and the Tower of London. A fun day with the family can be had at Madame Tussauds and the London Dungeons, or keep it grown-up with lunch looking over the docks in East London. We expect you'll need more than one visit to fit it all in!


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Ed Spencer is a blogger and article writer from London. His interests include travel and tourism, ranging from Heathrow airport taxis to public transport around the city.