Royal London

Hopefully it will be safe for us to travel overseas soon. London is always one of the top three destinations people love to visit.

I love to stay at the Rubens Hotel which is close to the palace. Small boutique hotel with wonderful service and have their afternoon tea before going to the theater. They can arrange to pick you up from the airport, which is a blessing and worth every penny.

Start the royal day with a visit to the main royal attraction in London, Buckingham Palace. The official London home of the Queen. It is open to the public from August to September . Also see the Royal Mews and the Queen's Gallery, which are open for a longer proportion of the year. I usually go to buy Christmas presents at the Queen's Gallery, unique gifts. It is fun to see the Changing of the Guard which takes place at 11.30 am. every day. I think the British military put on the best show in the world.

For a more blood thirsty morning, visit the Tower of London. This imposing fortress hosted some of the most gruesome events in London's history, including torture, death and beheadings. Highlights include the Crown Jewels, the king's medieval bedchamber and the White Tower, built by William the Conqueror. Have lunch at the New Armouries Restaurant, a spacious restaurant serving homemade food all day, every day of the year inside the Tower.

After lunch, head to Kensington Gardens and go inside Kensington Palace where visitors can see Queen Victoria's bedroom, the long King's gallery and King George's staircase lined with magnificent paintings of the court. The sunken garden outside is a lovely spot for a quiet stroll.

Followers of fashion will enjoy the display of dresses once worn by Diane, Princess of Wales.

After sampling all these regal attractions, dine like a king at Fortnum and Mason, opened in 1707.

Go to visitlondon.com for more itinerary ideas.

Maureen Jones

All Horizons Travel/Frosch

825 Santa Cruz Ave

Menlo Park, CA 94025

www.froschvacations.com

650-961-2340 direct