Romantic London Weekend

London is the capital and largest city of both the United Kingdom and of England, and is the largest city in Western Europe. Situated on the River Thames in southeast England, London is historically one of the great world cities and remains a global capital of politics, culture, fashion, trade and finance. London will serve as the host city for the 2012 Summer Olympic Games.

London boasts a vast number of attractions for the traveler. Among the most famous are Westminster Abbey and the Palace of Westminster (including Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament) in Westminster. Shoppers can head to Portobello Road, which claims to be the world’s largest antiques market, for antiques, souvenirs and other knick-knacks or simply a walk through time.

London has a large variety of shows from fringe to Broadway-like musicals and productions. The West End district is where you’ll find the last type, with famous imported Broadway shows and some very good local productions.

The Marriott County Hall hotel is stylish, elegant and the amenities and first-class service are the envy of many hotels in London. Originally used as the seat of government, the Marriott has been restored yet has kept its beautiful architecture. Guests can enjoy a sumptuous dining experience in the County Hall restaurant or a lighter meal in the Rotunda Lounge, both overlooking the River, or spend a couple of hours enjoying the splendidly indulgent afternoon tea in the opulence of the Library with breathtaking views of Big Ben. Guests have complimentary access to the largest and most extensive gym and pool of any London hotel. All 200 bedrooms have been completely refurbished in 2007 giving this beautiful building an interior to match the stunning exterior. The bedrooms have all the amenities you would expect from a luxury hotel including the Marriott bedding package which consists of 300 thread count Egyptian cotton sheets, down mattress topper, down duvet and six pillows.

Tate Britain is a part of the Tate Gallery in Britain. Opened in 1897, its edifice is beautiful and palatial with huge columns, and stone sculptures adorning the roof. Exhibiting Britain art from 1500 to present, the gallery is also known for its support of new and contemporary multimedia artists. The modern art on display ranges from the Pre-Raphaelite period to Cubism. Giacometti, Picasso, Moore, Hepworth and Warhol are among those on show, and the gallery also annually exhibits the artists that are short-listed for the Turner Prize.

An oasis of tranquility in central London, Hyde Park, together with Kensington Gardens to the west, is the largest of the three royal parks. On the north-east side is Speaker's Corner, a traditional haven of free speech. The Serpentine boating lake, complete with a designated swimming area, and the Serpentine Gallery is a famous tourist spot. The Albert Memorial and the statue of the mischievous character Peter Pan is housed at the Kensington Gardens also attract a crowd. Separated by the stately Serpentine Bridge many visitors to the park choose to sunbathe near Diana Fountain or simply dip their feet into the water. Hyde Park open at 5 am in the morning while the Kensington Gardens open at 6 am.

Located in Soho, the Elena's L'Etoile has been serving patrons for the last 100 years. Step into its warm atmosphere, which is enhanced with subdued lighting. The walls are adorned by beautiful photographs signed by celebrities of yesteryears, who have visited the venue. Whether it's your business client or your loved one that you get along, the delicious preparations and the friendly service are sure to make them mark this as one of the finest restaurants in the city.

The Opera House is even more impressive than before. The period building has been restored to its original glory and continues to be the largest opera and ballet venue in London, showcasing the works of the Royal Ballet, Royal Opera and ROH Orchestra. Expect famous tenors, famous ballerinas and famous audience members as part of the revamped program. In an active attempt to rope in the masses, a range of cheap tickets will be offered for all performances. You can even take in the stunning architecture without going to a show—the entrance hall and exhibitions are open for viewing and backstage tours. Call the box office for further details.

606 Club is an old swinger, having played jazz for over a quarter of a century. The venue is well known on the jazz circuit, both in London and internationally, playing host to top-name musicians as well as up-and-coming artists. Entrance is reserved for members only (unless they have space to accommodate, which is never) or you happen to know the management or have booked a table for a meal. A typical basement jazz venue, the dim lighting and cozy table arrangement make for a perfect atmosphere. This relaxed club is perhaps not as renowned as Ronnie Scott's, but is definitely up there with 100 Club and Camden's Jazz Café. Food is Mediterranean, and there is a house stipulation that you can't consume alcohol unless you're a member or are having a meal. A must for all.

Known as both the London Eye and the Millennium Wheel, this huge 443-foot ferris wheel on the South Bank gives a fabulous bird's eye view of London. Its inception in the beginning of 2000 honored the Millennium; and the spectacular views stretch for 25 miles on a clear day to include views of Windsor and Tunbridge Wells. Up to 25 people can fit in each of the wheel's "capsules." The wheel turns surprisingly slowly; it takes thirty minutes to go round, so there's plenty of time to spot landmarks and take photos. Hours vary by season. Check website for timings.

Westminster Abbey is regarded as a Medieval architectural masterpiece. It has been the venue for most of the country's coronations since 1066 and for numerous other Royal occasions. At present, it is still a church dedicated to regular worship and to the celebration of great events in the British nation. Westminster Abbey features the final resting places or commemorations of a large number of famous poets, scientists, musicians, artists, authors and more.

The Holland Park houses gardens, woodland and a Japanese garden, hostel, playground for children, cricket pitch plus tennis courts to name a few. A visit to Holland Park ensures that you are refreshed and rejuvenated. The beautiful and natural surroundings are literally a breath of fresh air and will give your polluted lungs a much needed break. Take a stroll in Holland Park or spend a day with family and friends and enjoy nature to the hilt.

Residing in the former garden ballroom of Holland House, there is still a great sense of occasion to dining at The Belvedere. An unrivaled setting amid verdant parkland, peacocks, and opera music from the open-air theater, makes this restaurant the pick of many a well-heeled Holland Parker. Acquired by an illustrious restaurateur, the Belvedere is the last word in contemporary elegance,  courtesy of designer David Collins, whose touch is trademarked in Marco Pierre White's restaurants. Service is usually slick, and the seafood is exemplary among the modern European cuisine. The sommelier courteously advises which among the 140 labels in the wine cellar will complement your meal, although some are destined to satisfy only the wealthiest wino. The desserts here are also expensively outstanding. The coveted tables on the outdoor terrace will really set off an already memorable summertime supper or a sunlit lunch.