London manages to retain its charming English traditions within the world of a modern cosmopolitan city. Enjoy afternoon tea with cucumber sandwiches, or relish a ploughman's lunch at one of the friendly neighborhood pubs where Londoners gather with friends to watch soccer and drink ale. Savor the pungent flavors of cuisine from India, Malaysia, China, the Caribbean, Africa, or the Mediterranean. Over a third of London's population are immigrants; the benefits of this diversity are evident in the distinctive, exuberant neighborhoods of Soho, Mayfair, Marylebone, Piccadilly Circus, Bloomsbury, Knightsbridge, Kensington, Chelsea, Notting Hill, and Bayswater.

The Romans founded Londinium in A.D. 43 on the marshy banks of the Thames. London's growth began in the 11th century, when it became the seat of the last successful invader of Britain, the Norman duke who became William I of England. The first king of England to be crowned in Westminster Abbey, William built the White Tower, the heart of the Tower of London.

London is Europe's biggest city--spreading over an area of more than 620 square miles from its core on the River Thames. Its size, vast crowds, and hectic pace add to the exhilarating energy of the city. Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, The National Gallery, Kensington Gardens, Harrods department store, the Royal Opera House: these are all enchanting sites worth a visit. The dazzling civic landmarks, Roman ruins, baroque churches, quiet squares, narrow alleyways, and perfectly manicured parks make London the walker's paradise. However, London's greatest treasure is perhaps its unparalleled theater scene. From the Royal Shakespeare Company to recent Broadway hits and avant-garde pieces, the fine productions offered continue the most distinguished and innovative thespian tradition in the world. In addition to the high quality of the shows, discount tickets are almost always available at one of the many entertainment outlets around town.

Take a plunge into London's magisterial past. Visit the London of Shakespeare, Dickens, or Virginia Woolf's day--for they are all alive and well in this city of culture and history.