"London Calling..." a London Travel Page by Airpunk

Almost everybody would agree with me that London is a MUST among european destinations, even if its is surely one of the most expensive cities in Europe too. Here, so many aspects of life come together: Rich history meets modern life spiced with an incredible diversifity of cultures - and subcultures. If you think that London is just about red buses, bad weather and the royal family, come and visit this city. London has so much to discover that it even surprises people who have been living for along time in the city.

I first visited London with my mom in 1995 and 1996 for christmas shopping, but returned on my own in early 2006 after I got five days off work. A similar lucky ocassion brought me back to London in early 2007. Check out my travellogue to read more about my London experiences.

London is the capital city of the United Kingdom and has around 7,5 million inhabitants with around further seven in its nearby metropolitan area. The City of London, which is only a small part of greater London, has only 9 000 inhabitants but has given the name to the city. Other parts (called London boroughs) are, for example, Kensington and Chelsea, the City of Westminster, Camden and many others.

I know that most of you will only have a few days in London, so you will not - or better say: never - be able to see everything. So you have to pick your sights, places and events depending on your interests. I used to name my own London highlights here, but every time I go to London, there's something new and exciting I can recommend. As I said, it depends on your own interest what you want to see or do. The place which is most probably suitable for anybody is the Tower of London where you will get a short summary of medeival british history in a humorous way. But as a main tourist attraction, it is expensive and crowded. Camden Markets were off the beaten path some time ago and dominated by an alternative-style community. Since tourists have discovered them, it has become a little more mainstream, but still and interesting place, especially on weekends. A walk organised by "London Walks" is a way to discover the city under differrent themes. One of the most famous is the "Jack the Ripper" - walk which takes place every evening (see in East End tips). Many attractions are grouped along River Thames, but a walk along the river or on the bridges leading over it gives you a view on London from a nice place. Of course, there are many more places to see - for that, check out my travel tips.

...and London is right in the middle of it. Some of you may know or even share my passion for low cost flying. It is cheaper to get to Stansted Airport than to any other airport in Europe. By now, I gave up counting how many times I have been to London. I visit London while on transit to some other place, I visit London just to go to the theatre and I visit London just because it's on penny offer again. So don't wonder, if I do not update this page for a long time and then just upload stuff from eight different London trips.