London

The heaviest tourist season runs mid-April through mid-October, with another peak around Christmas—though the tide never really ebbs. Spring is the time to see the countryside and the royal London parks and gardens at their freshest; fall to enjoy near-ideal exploring conditions. In late summer, be warned: air-conditioning is rarely found in places other than department stores, modern restaurants, hotels, and cinemas in London, and in a hot summer you'll swelter. Winter can be rather dismal, but all the theatres, concerts, and exhibitions go full speed.

It's virtually impossible to forecast London weather, but you can be fairly certain that it will not be what you expect. It's generally mild—with some savage exceptions, especially in summer. In short, be prepared for anything: layers and an umbrella are your friends.

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• Tower of London : Iconic castle and infamous prison, the Yeoman Warders and their ravens will regale you with tales of the exploits of history that occurred within its walls. A viewing of the Crown Jewels will complete the visit.

• Buckingham Palace : Official residence of the monarchy when in the city and backdrop to the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony occurring daily in the summer, and four times a week weather permitting at other times of the year at 11 a.m., subject to change.

• Westminster Abbey : With over 1,000 years of history, this still functioning church houses the final resting places and memorials to many former monarchs and important figures of history such as Robert Browning, Charles Dickens, Stephen Hawking, Sir Isaac Newton and Queen Elizabeth I, to name a few.

• Thames River Cruise : A sightseeing cruise through the city during day or night is a unique way to view aspects of the area only viewed by water.

• London Eye : 360-degree views of the city from a glass enclosed pod circling on a large ferris wheel.

• British Museum : With free entry, you can explore millions of years of human history and culture. With more than 60 galleries and rotating exhibits, you will find plenty of interest, including Egyptian culture and the Rosetta Stone, to the sculpture and pottery of the Roman Empire.

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