British Odds and Ends of Travel

Until recently, Paris has held the title of the “most visited capital in the world”, but new figures now place London as the top city of choice.   In 2013, sixteen million tourists visited London ahead of Paris, Bangkok was in third, and New York was in fourth place.   

While the Olympics in 2012 helped boost visitor numbers, other factors including key sporting and cultural events such as Andy Murray’s victory at Wimbledon, the “Pompeii” exhibition at the British Museum, the “David Bowie” exhibition at the Victoria and Albert Museum, as well as renewed “Royal Fever” with the birth of the nation’s future King, Prince George, all helped London win the title.

This year is no different.   Spring has finally arrived, the clocks have moved forward, the evenings are getting lighter, now is the time to book your holiday to Great Britain.    If you are looking for inspiration or motivation, why not come work with a limey named Maureen Jones, who can give you lots of expert advice.  I’ve been back to the British Isles 155 times since marrying an American.

Here is sixpenny worth of ideas.  

The Queen’s birthday parade will be held on Saturday, 14 June on Horse Guards Parade and over 1400 officers and members of the Household Cavalry will be on show together with 200 horses and 400 musicians.    I can arrange a full “Best of Britain” weekend itinerary for you to include first class VIP viewing of this very special Royal spectacular hosted by an experienced British guide.

Tate Modern is one of my favorite places to visit every time I go home.  Henri Matisse – the Cut Outs will be on exhibit 17 April to 7 September.   I can build you a modern art “Journey of Discovery” with specialist art guides who can fast track you through the lines, offer incredible insight and walk you through what the capital has to offer.

Royal Horticultural Society Chelsea Flower Show 20-24 May.   This is one of the most prestigious shows in British with the opening attended by a member of the Royal family.  This is an amazing experience even if you aren’t an avid gardener.   I can arrange a number of different experiences because of valuable connections, from tickets to formal hospitality and specialist guides who are able to escort you through the different gardens and exhibits.

Catherine Walker Fashion House Tour.   We are delighted to offer a very exclusive behind the scenes fashion event.  Not only will our clients visit the atelier of Catherine Walker & Co ( a favorite designer of Princess Diana’s) they will meet her widow, Said Cyrus, who is the House’s Co-Founder and Creative Director.   He will host a look behind the scenes where some world famous designs were made.  Afterwards, refreshments and afternoon tea will be served back at the Milestone Hotel, one of my favorite five star properties in a wonderful location. 
 

Why not have a few days in London, then take Eurostar to Paris for a few days.   You can’t beat the fast 2 hours and 15 minutes city center to city center journey.  Stay in the St. Pancras Hotel built at the train station.  We get our clients a free breakfast, room upgrade, and lots of other amenities because we are part of the Signature Travel Network.  You can do a one day Paris sightseeing trip, or I have lots of suggestions for Paris hotels either on the left or right banks.    

Go to one of the 74 theatres in London.   Dinner and a performance makes a lovely night out.

Have a few days at Cliveden, 30 minutes from Heathrow, a wonderful 350 acre estate then go into London.  

Maureen Jones is president of All Horizons Travel  at 160 Main Street. Members of her staff are experts in business travel, cruises, and all types of leisure.