Shortly after we arrived, we took a tour on the city's red, double-decker buses. The narrated ride gives a great overview of the city and helps you get your bearings. You can ride the entire circuit or get off at places like Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and Westminster Abbey, then pick up the next bus. A 24-hour pass costs about $18 and entitles you to unlimited rides. (1999)

I also climbed into the dome of St. Paul's Cathedral—up all 700 steps! You get a really close look at the paintings, carvings, and statues in the dome, and then a great view of the city and the Thames when you continue up the stairway to the exterior.

—Jude David, Hideaways Travel Services

Spring 1998