Discount Airfares From the USA to Germany: Affordable Travel Around The World

February 7, 2010 by afriend102

Air travel is more popular than ever and with popular travel comes cheaper ticket prices. Discount airfares from the USA to Germany, for example, costs less than ever before. Germany is a great country with lots of culture and history and anyone traveling there will be amazed at how much there is to experience. If you can get your hands on discount airfares from the USA to Germany, it’s recommended that you do so that you can experience it all yourself, or you can take your entire family for a European vacation and experience Germany during a trip that is sure to bring the entire clan closer. Just make sure that you take your camera because you will likely take home many memories that you will want to preserve forever.

Have You Ever Been Overseas?

For those people who have never traveled outside of the United States, a German vacation can seem scary. The first thing people usually consider is that they don’t speak German, they don’t know their way around Germany and they don’t even know how to go about making reservations for hotels, and more. These thoughts often cause a person to put off indefinitely any overseas travel. However, there is help available to alleviate all your fears so that you can have a relaxing vacation to this beautiful European country.

You have your choices when purchasing discount airfares from the USA to Germany. For instance, you can go through a travel agency, you can buy your tickets online or you can call the airlines directly. No matter which avenue you try, you are sure to find discount airfares from the USA to Germany. The problem comes when trying to book rental cars, hotels, and so on. This is where a travel agent or online travel site might work better than just calling the airlines.

Travel agents and online travel sites help you book rental cars, hotels, and even tour groups to help you get around better. The only thing these avenues can’t help you with is speaking the language. However, many Europeans speak English so your language barrier might not be such a barrier after all. You can always pick up an English to German dictionary or phrase book to help you out.

The point is not to be afraid of traveling to Germany. Wake up the adventurer in you and book your vacation with Discount airfares from the USA to Germany and worry about how to get around when you get there.

Copenhagen is a Vibrant City

February 6, 2010 by afriend102

Copenhagen is the capital of Denmark and the countries largest city. The seat of the national parliament, the government, and the monarchy. The original designation for the city, from which the contemporary Danish name is derived, was merchants harbour. The English name for the city is derived from its German name, Kopenhagen. The element hafnium is named after the cities Latin name, Hafnia. It is a vibrant, modern city with a long and fascinating history, having been the capital of Denmark for close on 600 years and home to the oldest resident monarchy in the world.

Copenhagen is a vibrant, modern city whose fascinating past coexists with the very latest trends in architecture, design and fashion. This is a city that presents its myriad attractions against a waterside backdrop that helps make it of one of the most beautiful cities in northern Europe.

A major attraction in Copenhagen is the Copenhagen Tivoli Gardens located in the centre of the city. This unique amusement park, established in 1843, offers a fine mix of wild rides, games, restaurants and entertainment suitable for all ages and occasion.
Tivoli Gardens is usually top of everyones list of places to visit. It is a beautiful, romantic park with a wealth of high class restaurants and stages for music and theatre, most of it free for visitors, and an amusement park. Lanterns in the trees and bushes create a unique ambience.

Several of Copenhagens museums enjoy a deserved international reputation for their rich collections and inventive temporary exhibitions. The biggest museum is Nationalmuseet, but there are plenty more specialised museums such as the jhusmuseet and Teater Museet.

Copenhagen has a thriving theatrical scene, centred around the Royal Theatre on Kongens Nytorv, where, uniquely, world class ballet, opera and theatre companies coexist, but the theatrical scene also embraces everything from live comedy to musicals.

The night life is rich and varied and, as you would expect from this most hospitable of cities, very welcoming. Whether your taste is for cosy bars and cafes, or live music and cutting edge clubs, Copenhagen has a place to suit your taste.

For decades Vesterbro had a reputation for being the roughest neighbourhood in town, but it has enjoyed a certain coming of age with Copenhagens avant garde over the past decade. Today, Vesterbro is a cosmopolitan district, with halal butcher shops and organic grocers sharing space with trendy design shops and kindergartens.

Copenhagen Airport Kastrup is the Nordic airport with the most international flights. A number of low cost airlines operate cheap flights to Copenhagen Airport.

Manila, Gateway To The Charming Exotic Philippines

February 3, 2010 by afriend102

Located between the Philippine and the South China seas in Southeast Asia, the Philippines is an exceptionally charming archipelago of 7,107 enchanting islands, covering an area of 300,000 sq km, and consisting of Mindanao, Luzon, and Visayas, thereby forming the nation’s main island chains.Acknowledged as the ‘Pearl of the Orient’, the Philippines boasts of an array of attractions comprising beautiful islands, fantastic beaches, astounding volcanoes, unique wildlife, awe-inspiring landscapes, and world-renowned diving destinations.

With hundreds of awesome tourist destinations, the Philippines cater to all types of vacationers, such as honeymooners, nature lovers, adventurers, and wildlife explorers. Baguio, Bataan, Bohol, Cebu, Davao, Tagaytay, Bicol, Palawan, and Ilocos, are just few among many of the tourist destinations in Philippines. Despite these attractions, a visit to Philippine is incomplete without taking a tour to Manila.

Manila is one of the world’s largest metropolitans. Nestled on the Luzon – the largest island of the Philippines, Manila is the capital city and is considered a gateway to charming Philippines. Graceful with the magnificent views of the enchanting Manila Bay as well as its astounding golden sunset, Manila has now become one of the premier tourist destinations.

Manila’s attractions, among many others, are Intramuros, one of the oldest parts of Manila, packed with ancient churches and buildings; Fort Santiago, (the Shrine of Freedom), erected on the ashes of burnt fort of a Muslim king; Malacang Palace, a gracious villas which was once the summer house of the governor general; American Cemetery and Memorial, which contains graves of those who died in the second world war; Manila Cathedra, a Romanesque edifice; and Coconut Palace, a museum exhibiting varied styles of home interior furnishing and designing. Manila also boasts of a great number of parks and gardens, each of which are unique and excellent to relax with friends and relatives. Some of them are Rizal Park – Asia’s largest park, which is dedicated to the national hero, Jose Rizal; Paco Park, dating back to the colonial period; and Japanese Garden; and Greenbelt Park.

Aside from these parks and gardens, Manila has to its credit some enchanting public spaces including the Baywalk, offering superb views of the sunset, Rajah Sulayman Park, Plaza Miranda, Remedios Circle, Plaza Balagtas, and the Manila Broadwalk. For those who want to explore the influence of Chinese culture in the Philippines, a great option would be to take a visit to China Town, which is much sought after for its shops, restaurants, and exotic stalls. Besides, worth mentioning are the ancient churches of Manila, such as, the San Agustin Church, dating back to the 16th century; Quiapo Church, alternatively known as the Church of the Black Nazarene; Black Nazarene; Manila Cathedral; Bonifacio Shrine; and Quiapo Church.

Above all, Manila renders great opportunities to enjoy a variety of activities. For instance, taking a short excursion to Tagaytay to spot the renowned Taal Volcano would be a great experience. Likewise, a tour to Pagsanjan through a canoe ride would be equally enthralling. Further, while your stay at Manila, don’t forget to take a trip to Laguna, which is much favored for its hot sulphur springs. Equally fascinating is the nightlife of Manila, with night clubs in such happening areas as Pagsanjan, P Burgos, and Kalayaan streets.

With these amazing as well as umpteen attractions, people flock to Manila year-round. No matter you want budget or luxury accommodation, Manila has hotels and resorts to cater all levels of people. Many of them are located within the heart of the city, and hence are within the proximity to all world-class tourist attractions. Accommodations, especially luxury ones, are replete with air conditioning, data port, automatic wake-up call, voice mail, and satellite TV. Mostly, such facilities as business center, private parking facility, currency exchange facilities, and internet access, are also made available.

A vacation to Manila can be made truly memorable through effective planning. But, sometimes it may be chaotic to schedule such things as arrangement of accommodation, activities to be done during vacation, and traveling within the place after having reached the place. To cope up with these problems, one can make use of the service of tour operators or travel agents.

They can arrange you everything from accommodation and food to traveling and sightseeing requirements. Nowadays, some of the top-rated hotels and resorts also render services in the form of packages. Packages usually cover accommodation, traveling within the place, and food. All you have to do is to enter their website, and share your interests as well as likes and dislikes. Just feel relaxed and wait for a refreshing vacation in Manila!

Holidaying in Leicester

February 1, 2010 by afriend102

Perched on the banks of the River Soar and edging the English National Forest, Leicester is a thriving, progressive city with a vibrant immigrant population.

Now the largest city in the East Midlands, Leicester is one of the oldest cities in England with a history going back to pre-Roman times. Once inhabited by Celtic tribes, Leicester became a settlement on the Roman road and the remains of Roman baths can be seen today. The city was later a major centre during the industrial revolution and was linked by the Grand Union Canal to London and Birmingham.

Modern Leicester is a very livable city graced with with Victorian architecture. Many of the inner city streets are pedestrianised and the area is well-served with shopping outlets including Leicester Market, Europe’s largest covered market. The city’s historic quarter lies to the west and is marked by the castle, cathedral and a bevy of medieval churches.

Leicester’s rich cosmopolitan mix results in a wide range of ethnic foods and cultural events. Leicester is home to many fine Indian restaurants and the city resounds to festivals such as Diwali.

Transport: getting there and getting around

Leicester is conveniently located on the UK’s main transport arteries. The city is close to the M1 motorway and lies on the Midland Main Line from London to Sheffield, Nottingham and Leeds. High-speed trains can reach London in just over an hour. Trains from Leicester arrive at London St Pancras from where Eurostar international services depart for Europe.

Leicester is convenient for East Midlands Airport which is served by low cost carriers with international flights to Paris, Amsterdam, Berlin and Frankfurt and domestic flights to Edinburgh and Belfast. Limited services connect with Barbados, Mexico and Florida.

An extensive bus network operates in and around Leicester.

Climate:
Mild and wet best describes the English weather and the further north you go, the colder it gets. However, inland temperatures don’t get much below freezing in the winter months of December to February, or much above 30°C in summer.
However, the East Midlands tends to have higher rainfall in the summer and less sunshine in winter.

Accommodation:from cheap stays to luxury resorts

Check on the internet for the range, location and cost of hotels in Leicester
Check on the internet for the range, location and cost of Leicester hotels
Check on the internet for the range, location and cost of Leicester

Events:what’s on and what’s hot

*The Comedy Festival in February is a ten-day laugh fest. It’s the UK’s longest running comedy festival.
*The Leicester Early Music Festival is in May. As well as concerts, it features workshops, exhibitions, dance day, family day and wine and whisky tasting.
*The Caribbean Carnival in August is the most colourful festival in the city.
*The Riverside Festival is held on the first Saturday of every June.
*Theis Leicester International Music Festival held in September brings the best of classical, jazz and world music to the Midlands.

Anguilla, A Romantic Small Island For Travel, Vacation And Your Honeymoon

January 28, 2010 by afriend102

This friendly island invites you to relax, kick off your shoes and enjoy! Imagine a small island that provides a private, pristine retreat for all who seek one — Anguilla. Wrapped in a brilliant turquoise sea, thirty-three stunning, powder-soft white sand beaches await your footprints, friendly people anticipate your smiles, and a world-class vacation is only a short journey away. Here are two resorts one moderately priced and one for the bold, you decide.

The Arawak Beach Inn

For a sand between your toes getaway and a casual relaxed atmosphere, there can be no better place to stay than the Arawak Beach Inn – Anguilla. Comprising of just 17 accommodations painted in pretty pastel shades, at the Arawak Beach Inn a home-away-from-home atmosphere prevails, be it with a distinctly Caribbean flavor. This is a place to relax and unwind, surrounded by all the comforts you will need, in a glorious Caribbean setting. Here nothing is too much trouble and the best place to try this out is at the Arawak?s delightful bar and restaurant, where delicious home-cooked breakfasts are served, and throughout the day and into the evening, traditional Caribbean fare, tasty snacks and international cuisine is available. Priced at $73.00 dollars a day.

The CuisinArt Resort & Spa

Inspired by the style of the Mediterranean, the whitewashed villas surrounded by lush plantings provide the perfect backdrop for your resort experience. A dazzling infinity pool stretches from the main building to the beach bar. Turquoise waters beckon you to swim, snorkel or sail, while two miles of velvety white sand invite you to bask in the sun. Award-winning botanical design weaves a tropical tapestry of fragrance, color and texture. Serpentine plantings gently wind their way through the grounds. The first resort farm of its kind, this state-of-the-art, soil- free growing process produces the freshest and healthiest vegetables and edible flowers on Anguilla. The crop is harvested daily, providing the purest ingredients for both the cuisine and spa treatments. Executive Chef Daniel Orr and Chef de Cuisine Christopher Heath create the finest in world-class cuisine with a Caribbean accent, offering one of the most singular dining experiences in the West Indies. Experience the synergy of old-world European spa treatments and the latest in modern spa techniques. Spa Director Kathy Eggelston introduces innovative regimes designed to relax or rejuvenate you. Priced around $291 dollars a day.

Of course, wherever you travel, it is highly recommended that you take out travel insurance before embarking on any vacation. Unfortunately, without insurance, you have little recourse if you have to suddenly cancel your trip due to illness or other unforeseeable circumstances. Realize that resorts like this will expect to be paid no matter what. However, with travel insurance, you can recoup some or all of your costs if travel and vacation plans change. Travel insurance is very affordably priced, so please check out your options.

Ski Transfers The Missing Link For Diy Ski Holidaymakers

January 24, 2010 by afriend102

Uncertainty about snow, combined with an abundance of budget and last minute travel options and increasing willingness to accommodate the flexibility required by today’s skier, have triggered a big rise in self-arranged (DIY) winter sports holidays. During the 2006/2007 ski season, 356,000 people went skiing from the UK using budget carriers, up 54 per cent in five years.

Most of the skiers and boarders arriving by budget transfer required a ski resort transfer. Most of them will have booked a ski transfer in advance with on of the many local ski transfer companies advertising on the Internet. Booking a ski transfer in advance allow you to start you holiday without the stress of getting to the bus stations and high taxi fares.

Access to low cost flights and ski accommodation is becoming ever easier on the Internet. Ski resort transfers are still the missing piece in the jigsaw. Ski holiday booked through operators, although often inexpensive can lack the flexibility you need but provide a door-to-door ski transfer service to your chosen ski resort. Arriving late at an airport in a cold winter night not having organised any ski transfer to ski resort is not everyone’s cup of tea.

It is also possible to get to most ski resorts by bus or taxi instead of a private ski transfer. But for groups of 3 or more it is often best to arrange a ski transfer from the airport in advance with one of the local ski transfer operators. Ski resort transfer, although convenient can be expensive and prices can vary enormously. There is little price transparency when comparing different ski transfer offers. Also be careful as there are shared and private ski transfers on offer.

Using a ski transfer finder, a consolidation website or a ski transfer bidding engine can be a win-win for both ski transfer customers and ski transfer operators. All private ski transfer operators arrange airport and resort transfers specific to your requests. This often leads to private airport- and resort transfers with drop-offs without a pick-up or pick-ups without a drop-off. Ski transfer operators often drive empty to or from the airport for your specific ski transfer request.

Ski transfer finder, the website allows operator to see all inquiries and maximise their fleet load. This allows ski transfer operators to offer lower ski transfer rates, which helps you if you have a small budget. Fully loaded ski transfer vans from and to the airport and ski resort as often as possible also help the environment. DIY ski holidays will get you the flexibility you need. Looking in advance for a low cost ski transfers will provide you the missing link between low budget airlines and self-catering ski accommodation. Make your ski holiday work.

Choosing a limo service

January 24, 2010 by afriend102

Today, limousines are used for a wide variety of purposes but no one really knows which company invented the first limousine. It is believed, that the 1915 Winston Six was the first automobile that had ‘limousine like’ features and the Winston Six is considered a limousine because it had a separate passenger cabin. With time, automobile manufacturers like Lincoln pioneered the manufacturing and production of limousines and modern day limousines are available from a variety of manufacturers. In addition, many regular SUVs and cars have also been converted into limousines.

With regular cars and SUVs becoming common, what differentiates VIPs from the crowd is the limousine they are driven around in. Since the cost of buying and maintaining limousines is very high, it is commonplace for organizations and individuals to rent limousines. Limousines are commonly used for weddings, social gatherings, business trips and meetings. If you are currently looking for a limousine service provider here are a few tips to help you can choose a limousine service.

Before you hire a limousine, it is important to do proper market research. If you are living in a big city, there will be more than one limousine service available. Before you approach any limousine service provider there are a few details you need to have handy, you need to know how many people you are catering for, the type of limousine you would like, and also the exact date and time you need the limousine. Once you have the basic details, speak to a few limousine service providers and get a tentative quote for their services.
Once you have a list of limousine service providers, speak to colleagues and friends for a few references. Keep in mind that a limousine service provides more than just a limousine and the chauffer is also an important component. If you are going to use the limousine to pick up important clients or business contacts, the chauffer will play an important role and it is vital to make sure the chauffer is courteous and helpful.

The final step in choosing a limousine service is selecting the vehicle. Depending on your requirements you can hire anything from a 3 passenger sedan to a 16 passenger limo bus. If you are hiring the limo for business use, the best options is to hire a Lincoln limousine that accommodates 6-8 passengers. In fact, larger limousines are popularly used for weddings and for social occasions. Limo buses on the other hand are increasingly popular with tour groups, and many large corporations and organizations prefer hiring limo buses for corporate vacations and outings. Limo buses are a great way for any tour group to travel in luxury. Similarly, limo coaches are also popular with families and groups that want to enjoy their trip.

It is also important to look at the various facilities each limousine has to offer. Ideally, a limousine should be equipped with an internet connection, television set and mini-bar. If you are hiring a limousine for business use make sure the limousine has ‘business friendly’ features.

Before you finalize a limousine service, make sure you understand all the costs involved. Many limousine operators are accredited to a larger organization like the National Limousine Association; also ask your prospective company if they are licensed to operate in your state. If possible, always ask the limousine service provider for references. As mentioned earlier, make sure the organization screens all chauffeurs. Also make sure the chauffeur is familiar with the service area, so that he spends as little time on the road and does not end up getting lost. If possible, try and inspect the limousine before you hire it, do not get fooled by generic photographs posted on the limousine service provider’s website. Do not choose a limousine service just because they are cheaper than their competition.

Is Nepal Safe to Travel on a Tour ?

January 22, 2010 by afriend102

Over the last ten years Nepal has experienced problems with infighting between the government and the Maoists due to conflicting ideas and political disagreement.

Though its a fact that cannot be hidden that people got killed during this conflict but there is no record of any tourists or travellers being injured, killed or involved in anyway. All people in Nepal have a strong belief that guests are equal to God, every Nepal abides by this and offers the warmest of welcomes to all visitors into Nepal.

The much awaited Comprehensive Peace Accord was signed between the government of Nepal and the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoists) formally announcing an end to a decade long armed insurgency by the Maoists. Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala and Chairman of the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoists) Prachanda signed the historic Accord promising to chart a new destiny for “peaceful and democratic” new Nepal, and pledging for peaceful coexistence of all Nepali irrespective of caste, creed, religion and gender.

By making the ceasefire permanent, the accord declares the armed insurgency that began since February, 1996 as officially over. Effective immediately, the CPA states that illegal carrying of weapons, their display and any kind of attack, threat, intimidation would, henceforth, be punishable by law.

Overall, travelling to Nepal contains no more risk than travelling in other places of the world, in fact as a traveller you are much safer in Nepal than in other countries in the West. All the major tourist areas of Nepal are policed and patrolled and we have are own branch of the tourist police to assist travellers and keep them safe should a situation arise.

There is an overwhelming peace and tranquillity that prevails throughout Nepal as the Peace accord is signed and Maiost are included in the Government.

Over more than a half decade the Nepalese tourism industry has suffered severely due to the conflicts. Since both the Government and Maoists have committed for free movement of tourists and all Nepali in any part of the country, it will definitely provide a boost to ailing tourism industry of Nepal. The signing of Peace Accord also put full stop to illegal donations collected by Maoists from trekkers in the different trekking routes. Now tourists can go anywhere in Nepal with any problems.

Although not a single tourist had been targeted or harmed by the rebels during a decade long insurgency, the conflict emanated wrong message to world about the safety and security situation of Nepal. With the ending of conflict, all tourism entrepreneurs have expressed their satisfaction and happiness in the hope that it will bring permanent peace in the country which is vital for the growth of tourism industry.

Signing of Peace Accord has given a positive message to the world that Nepalese people are capable of resolving their own problem; and it has set an example in conflict resolution for the whole world. What until recently was dream of all Nepali and peace lovers has now become a reality.

The people of Nepal are truly very happy for tourists to come and visit Nepal and see and experience its beauty, grandeur, culture, arcane temples and monasteries, mountains and jungles of Nepal.

This is definitely the time to go to Nepal and join a tour or go trekking on Mount Everest as the prices are low at the moment and the Nepali people are extremely happy to receive travellers to their country.

The Vacation Market

January 20, 2010 by afriend102

In this day and age there are actually a wide range of vacation possibilities. Cruises, adventure vacations, specialty vacations, are all just a few of the many options that are available. The difficulty arises when you want to take a vacation with your whole family. One person going on a trip can often get a special deal. Even two people can travel and receive substantial discounts on packaged vacations. Families on the other hand have no such luck. It is assumed that families have children and that children are noisy.

Resorts often use children as an excuse to charge premium prices on the grounds that they need to have special services available to cater to the specific requirements of the children. Some resorts actually do go to great lengths and substantial costs to accommodate these young guests. They may have daycare facilities, children’s programs, perhaps even special menus to better serve those kids that are picky eaters (like me when I was 5).

These last few years have seen massive changes in the vacation market. There are new options available for families that wish to vacation together that do not require huge infusions of cash. It’s a new market and it represents a complete shift in the way we think about our vacation time.

The timeshares, all inclusive resorts, and villa rentals now have to compete with destination clubs, exchange programs, points programs, a wholesale vacation market, and what is now a hugely competitive cottage rental real-estate market. Did you know you can actually rent a cottage and get it as an “all inclusive” package? This was not possible 10 years ago but it is now.

The important thing about planning and having a family vacation is to be prepared and always keep in mind the following:

• What happens if you are hurt while on vacation? Is there liability coverage in the unlikely event that it is needed?
• Is your booking or rental guaranteed to be available?
• What happens if you are not happy with the place? Refunds?
• What are the hidden costs (groceries, boats, or things that are not covered in the basic rental agreement?

So long as you keep these simple questions in mind you should have a fun and happy vacation. Enjoy your vacation and spend the time with your family and your friends and make sure that you get your well deserved break from work. Enjoy!

Lapping up London

January 18, 2010 by afriend102

London’s reputation as a thriving, culturally vibrant city is well-deserved. It boasts some of Europe’s most impressive old architecture and landmarks as well as some equally statuesque modern monuments. The city doesn’t come cheap; but knowing your Knightsbridge from Kentish Town can help reduce the costs. London’s streets are full of markets, galleries and shops that are more edgy than expensive.

Among its strengths are the open markets, ethnic food, fabulous theatre and the best art museums anywhere.

Although London gets a bit pricey – especially if you are coming from outside the UK – there are ways to get around on a budget.

The best food that will not break the bank is found at open markets like the well-known Borough Market, and the smaller Exmouth market. Borough market has vendors from all over Europe and the UK selling cheeses, fresh meat, seafood, wine, pasties and pesto.

The food is great to pick up and take to sit in the park, or take home and cook. Check out market fare, with a decadent glass of bubbly in hand. You can buy ready-to-go meals from the stalls; although the lines for these can quite long.

Instead, getting some of the excellent cheese and some fresh bread might make for an easier meal. Exmouth market at Rosebury Avenue and Farringdon Road, has prepared foods, which should set you back approximately £5 for a generous plate. If you can avoid the local office crowd by getting there at noon or so, you’ll happily avoid the long lines.

A traditional pint needn’t be too expensive, unless you’re heading to a lavish cocktail bar. American tourists may be grateful they aren’t expected to tip in these establishments. The beers are also notably better than domestic macro-brews that Americans may be accustomed to.

Many of the more traditional pubs will sell traditional pints of ale. However, many of these pubs have now had cosmopolitan makeovers, with menus to rival some restaurants, so expect a gastro-pub mix-up of old and new influences. It is hard to get a good place to stay in London without breaking the bank.

There are deals to be had in London; however they just have to be sought out. The Crestfield Hotel in the King’s Cross area, can be £20 per person per night and puts you in an interesting and newly resurgent area. At the centre of London’s transport is King’s Cross Station; home to most of London Underground’s lines and from where the Eurostar departs. If sightseeing and convenience are of utmost importance to you on your journey, the Holiday Inn Southwark is probably the most bang-for-your-buck. Just within reach of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, the recent Tate Modern and a handful of sites by the River Thames.

Paddington is a good, central location for hiring a hotel and by many major lines of transport. The Hyde Park Paddington is an economical choice at £30 per night.

The last key to affordable London is that museums are free. London’s big-time museums, the Tate Britain and Modern and the National Portrait Gallery won’t cost a penny and it’s a free outing worth doing. Specific exhibitions have to be paid for, but if you want to take in some art from the Italian Renaissance; it doesn’t cost a penny. The museums can become a daytime refuge from pricey food and sometime aggressive shopping.