For families, there's no better introduction to the history, culture and distinct charm of Europe than to take a trip to London. The flight from the East Coast is only seven hours. Once outside the airport, the kids will immediately notice that they're in a different country. The taxi driver is riding on the right, not the left side of the car and driving on the left, not the right side of the road. Thankfully, he speaks English, though with one of those funny British accents. Being able to communicate effectively is the reason I believe London should be the first stop on any European itinerary.
Once you drop off your bags, there are a slew of activities to savor. There's the morning Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, a ride on the London Eye, a cruise down the Thames under the famous Tower Bridge, feeding the birds at one of London's glorious parks, a visit to a former castle of King Henry VIII, Hampton Court Palace, or the unfortunate site where two of his wives were beheaded, the Tower of London. The London Underground is the finest subway system in the world, easy to get from place to place, or you can always hop on a double-decker bus or taxi as an alternative.
For dining, the city no longer serves only fish and chips or steak and kidney pies. You can sample some of the best Indian, Middle Eastern and Italian food on the continent with many affordable and family-friendly options. Then there's the theater scene in the West End that easily rivals Broadway as one of the finest. Like Manhattan, there's so much going on in London that you'll need time to slow down and rejuvenate or you'll quickly be exhausted. Take time to relax at your hotel and reenergize.
London Family Vacations
Families will love:
- A fairytale trip full of palaces and royalty
- An easy-to-use subway and bus system
- Historic and art-filled museums
Written by Stephen Jermanok
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Latest London Trip Report
by mes98nd
My husband and I have both been to London multiple times so we thought it was a good choice for our first true vacation with our 17-month-old son.
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