Using public transportation to get from the airport into central London is definitely the cheapest and probably the quickest. From Heathrow there is direct rail service into Paddington Station via the  Heathrow Express, the trip takes approximately 45 minutes. From Gatewick there is direct rail service  into Victoria Station via the Gatewick Express, the trip takes approximately 35 or 40 minutes. When using public transportation to get to the aiport when I am   leaving, I always allow myself plenty of time in case of train delays. For more information including train times and fares click on the respective links.

The London Underground , affectionately called the Tube, is the quickest way to get from A to B given the large amount of traffic on London’s streets. The subway system is extensive and despite problems in  recent years including service delays and so on  its still the best way to get around the city. The red doubledecker buses offer a great way to see the city; however,  they are not the quickiest way to get around.  For information on the bus system go to Transport For London. Definitely take them if you are in a leisurely mood and do not have to be somewhere by a certain time. 

The Oyster Card is great value for your money if you are planning on using the buses or the tube frequently and chances are you will be. In addition if you are planning on staying in London for 7 days consider getting the 7-Day Travel Card for Zones 1 & 2. You will have unlimited travel for a set price on the tube and buses, You can put the travelcard on the Oyster Card for quick and easy access going through the turnstile. All you do is touch the Oyster Card on the yellow pad at select turnstiles. The cost when I went this past Thanksgiving holiday 2006 was 22.70 in Pound Sterling. Given the cost of a single fare I saved money. I purchased my card at the shop in my hotel the sold newspapers and other merchandise, but you can  purchase it online. For more information on the Oyster and Travelcard go to The London Transport website.

I find the “The Official Website for London” is a good online resource for finding out about current art exhibitions, concerts, theater and so fourth.

When I arrive, I stop by a newsstand to purchase a copy of magazine TimeOut London. It’s a great source for information on theater, film, concerts, art exhibitions and so on. You can also visit their website to find out what’s happening, click on the link above. Two features I particularly like   are “In London this week” and “Search what’s on in London”, the latter enables you to search by venue, type of event and so fourth.

Original London Walks offers guided walking tours around London. From Shakespeare’s London (the Bankside) to The Inns of Court (Legal & Illegal) to  Sherlock Holmes (221b Baker Street). Check out the website for more information.

For those interested in art deco there is an itinerary for a walking tour of some of London’s art deco gems at A Traveller’s Guide to London. Click on the link for the route including maps.

The London Pass is a great value! Access to 50 popular tourist attractions around London for one price. Available in 1, 2, 3 or 6 day passes. You can also combine the benefits of the Travelcard with the London Pass for unlimited travel on London’s public transportation system (valid for zones 1-6). Click on the link for additional information including Special Offers & Discounts offered with The London Pass.

London Parks & Garden Trust - One weekend a year many of London’s private garden squares and residential gardens are open to the general public. This year (2006) the Open Garden Squares Weekend will take place June 10th-11th and 138 gardens will be participating. For ticket information and a list of the gardens click on the link.

Open House London - Takes place this year (2006) between September 16th and 17th. This annual event gives the general public an opportunity to see over 600 buildings, some of which are normally closed to the general public. For more information click on the link.

Pubs.com is a cool website. Not only will you learn about the history of the British pub, but you will also learn about “real ale”...definitely a good thing to know when visiting Merry Ole England. There is a “Quick Pub Search” feature that enables you to search for a pub by location, name or postcode.

Both professionals and non-professionals who have an interest in architecture should check out the website for The New London Architecture.

John Sandoe Book Ltd in Chelsea is the quintessential London bookstore. Cozy with lots of books scattered about the place with friendly and knowledgeable staff. I found this gem while exploring Chelsea with the Time Out Book of London Walks Volume 2. The bookshop was mentioned in the  walk, Behind the facade, by Sue Arnold. I would also like to mention I found Fryer’s Delight in the same book  while on another walk, Old Holborn by Robert Elms. I found both walks fun and enjoyable. At the end of each walk there is an Eating & Drinking section in case during the walk you want to get something to eat or stop for a drink. because a lot of the shops