London Tourist Trap Tips by Britannia2

Christmas lights Soho and the West End Review

The Christmas illuminations in Oxford Street and Regent Street are disappointing. The 2009 lights were based on the Disney movie A Christmas Carol but as the photo shows this was more or less all there was to see along Oxford Street every few yards.
In Regent Street the 2009 lights were the same as 2008 - illuminated netting that is strung across the street. Quite effective when you see it the first time but by year 2 not so good. Most provincial city's have better displays.

Fun Alternatives: Covent Gardens lights are quite good as are the lights at Westfield shopping centre.

High food prices Restaurants Review

Perhaps Londoners are used to paying high prices but for anyone from provisional England or some overseas countries some of the prices charged for food and drink are extortionate.
My tip is to go to the chains - Burger King, McDonalds, Cafe Nero, Pizza Express etc and pay the same prices you would be ( if you are English) used to paying at home.
Have a look at the photo - would you honestly pay £7.50 for take away fish and chips anywhere else in England!

Oxford Street Soho and the West End Review

There was a time when provincial people such as myself looked in awe at the shops and the fashions on Oxford Street. London people , especially young people were so much better dressed than anyone else and the shops in Oxford Street out of another world. 30 years on and you cannot tell a Londoner from any other English person, the shops are no better than at say the Trafford Centre or Meadowhall. So if you are from overseas or the middle of nowhere in England Oxford Street may hold some attraction but if not do not bother. Lots of tacky tourist stalls and shops that fleece tourists - don't bother.

Unique Suggestions: Do however see John Lewis' department store - this is still the best shopping experience in Oxford Street. Good product lines, knowledgeable staff and a well presented shop. If only they were all like this.........

Fun Alternatives: If you want good shopping take short train rides to Bluewater in Kent or Lakeside in Essex. Or in London itself and not far from Oxford Street the new Westfield shopping centre.