“London, thou art the flower of cities all!”. This quote by Scottish poet William Dunbar, although written in the 16th century, still expresses the love many travelers feel about London. 

Although today London is the capital of England and the United Kingdom, it was initially established as a Roman settlement in 47 AD. Over the years, it faced raids and conquests, changing rulership that shaped the architecture, language, and customs of the people into what we know it to be today. 

The city was further influenced by the people who arrived in England due to trade, colonialism, or as refugees. These influences are evident in the rich diversity of London’s people and cuisine, where staples range from Indian, Caribbean, and African to Middle Eastern and Asian dishes. Whether travelers want to view London through a historical, cultural, or gastronomic lens, there is plenty to see (and taste). 

Of course, there are obvious landmarks that can’t be missed on any first trip to the city, but a traveler could visit London many times without tiring or repeating its attractions. So, whether you are visiting the city for the first time or have been there many times already, we invite you to keep reading! 

This article will whet your appetite for the trip you are about to embark on, providing a comprehensive guide to London. All great journeys begin with a comfortable business class flight, so we will also offer some tips to help you achieve the best quality flight across the pond without breaking the bank. Let’s dive into our insider’s guide to London!

Business Class Travel to London

For anyone who has crossed the Atlantic in the main cabin, the memory is probably synonymous with words like uncomfortable, never-ending, or cramped. Even when airlines provide in-flight entertainment and complimentary meals, you never know if you’ll end up with a chatty seatmate or in front of someone who continuously kicks your seat. 

Business class seats are a game changer, providing extra legroom and comfortable seats, often with dividers between passengers. Usually, seats lie flat and turn into beds so passengers can relax during the entire trip, getting their much-needed beauty sleep or watching a movie comfortably. There’s also the perk of personalized service and gourmet meals, which make the flight a highlight of the trip rather than something you hope to quickly get over with. 

And, while only some think they can afford the luxury of a premium cabin ticket, there are some surprising ways to get a good deal that make your trip to London much more comfortable and enjoyable. 

It also means having complimentary baggage, which comes in handy when traveling to London, a city known for colder and rainy weather than the rest of Europe. Pack layers, such as a raincoat, light sweaters, and tee shirts for warmer weather. Comfortable shoes are also a must since you’ll likely do a lot of walking, but that doesn’t mean you have to forego fashion!

Not all airlines that fly to England are created equally, so you may feel overwhelmed exploring the hundreds of fares found online. That’s where we come in—at Business Class Experts, we can help you choose a reputable airline from wherever you are to London. We can also ensure the best price while maintaining high-quality service by utilizing loyalty programs, special deals, or insider discounts. Moreover, you can explore dozens of articles on our blog that cover these very topics. 

Arriving in London: Essential Information

London Heathrow (LHR) and London Gatwick (LGW) are the two busiest airports in the UK, so they tend to have more international arrivals and departures. However, Heathrow is closer to the city than Gatwick. 

The good news is that both airports are connected to London’s public transportation system, making it possible to get to the city from either without having to rent a car. You can also take a taxi or Uber or arrange a private transfer if you don’t want to lug your bags through the tube (underground), train, or bus. Of course, if you plan to make some day trips outside the city, you may consider renting a car. This makes it possible to visit beautiful locations like Bath and Oxford.

During your stay in London, you’ll want to have some cash on hand, although most of your purchases can be made with a credit card. We recommend getting a credit card designed with travelers in mind since these often have no international transaction fees and allow you to earn points on flights and lodging. You can add an extra layer of security to your transactions by paying with your watch or smartphone, making it harder to lose your card or have your credit card information stolen during your trip. 

Even if you pay with a card for most transactions, you should still have some cash. You can exchange money at the airport, but pay close attention to the current exchange rate. In most cases, you can get a better rate at local banks, and some of the most popular banks, such as CitiBank and Bank of America, have ATMs in London.

Must-See London Landmarks

Now it’s time to start sightseeing! If it’s your first time in London, you can’t miss the essential landmarks that represent the city, such as:

• Buckingham Palace: The official residence of the British monarch, where you can witness the Changing of the Guard Ceremony and catch a glimpse of royal life. 
• Big Ben: This iconic figure is a beautiful example of Victorian Gothic architecture and a can’t-miss! 
• Tower Bridge: Stretching over the River Thames, this strikingly designed bridge is one of London’s most famous locations. 
• The London Eye: Who can say no to a giant ferris wheel in the middle of the city offering perfect panoramic views from atop?

• Westminster Abbey: This historic church is the location of the coronations and is known for its Gothic architecture and impressive burial sites.
• St. Paul’s Cathedral: This Baroque cathedral boasts a dome and a Whispering Gallery, from which you can see a panoramic view of the city. 
• The Tower of London: This historical fortress was formerly a royal palace, and today it houses the Crown Jewel. 

• The British Museum: This world-renowned museum is home to a collection of treasures, art, and artifacts from around the world. Learn about cultures, history, and much more here. 
• The National Gallery: Art lovers will want to check out this collection of Western European paintings, including Van Gogh, Leonardo da Vinci, and Rembrandt.  
• The Tate Modern: This contemporary art museum is cutting-edge and home to innovative exhibitions. 

If you want to visit several attractions, you may consider purchasing a London Pass, which essentially bundles your entry for a lower cost. 

Neighborhoods to Explore

One of the most exciting things about London is simply walking around and taking in the atmosphere. Each neighborhood has something unique to offer travelers, with a few being favorites among locals and visitors alike. We recommend heading over to the following areas for a complete picture of London living:

• Westminster: This neighborhood is the heart of London and home to Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament. You won’t want to miss it for sightseeing.
• Chelsea: In West London, Chelsea is home to Hyde Park, affluent residents, and historic buildings; it’s the perfect place for photos and typical British afternoon tea.
• Covent Garden: This neighborhood is known for lively markets, boutique shops, and street performers, making it a great place to shop for English goods and take a stroll. 
• Soho: This neighborhood is a great place to dine and has a great nightlife scene. 
• Notting Hill: This charming and vibrant neighborhood is home to colorful houses, the Portobello Market, and the home to the film of the same name. 
• Shoreditch: If hipster art and street art are more your thing, this trendy area in East London is full of hidden gems!
• Camden Town: This welcoming neighborhood is home to London’s eclectic markets, coffee shops, and live music.
• Brixton: Foodies rejoice in Brixton, with the rich mixture of cultures that occupy South London in this neighborhood influencing diverse foods and bustling markets.
• Knightsbridge and Mayfair: Both of these neighborhoods are upscale and offer elegant restaurants, high-end retail shops, and renowned hotels. 

Shopping and Dining

London offers an exceptional shopping and dining experience that caters to all tastes. For luxury shoppers, visit Harrods for a high–end retail experience, stroll down Bond Street for designer boutiques, and explore the West End for a blend of iconic stores and markets. Discover unique boutiques and vintage shops in areas like Carnaby Street and Portobello Road for one-of-a-kind finds. 

When it comes to dining, London’s culinary scene goes beyond the classic fish and chips. There are Michelin-star restaurants, traditional pubs, and international eateries, each worth the splurge and the extra calories! 

Nightlife and Entertainment

London’s nightlife and entertainment scene is as dynamic as the city itself. Dive into the vibrant West End theater district, where you can catch popular musicals. For live music enthusiasts, venues range from intimate jazz clubs like Ronnie Scott’s to energetic rock halls such as The O2 Arena. Of course, there are also plenty of trendy bars and dance clubs where you can socialize and dance.

Experience the Allure of London with Business Class Experts

There’s no doubt that London is a city that every traveler should visit at least once in their lifetime. From the iconic landmarks and museums, world-class shipping, diverse dining, and vibrant nightlife, there is plenty to see and do, no matter your tastes!

If you’re ready to head across the pond, make sure you start your journey right with the unparalleled comfort and style of premium class airfare. By booking with Business Class experts, you ensure that you get the best price and quality possible, as well as airfare catered to your unique needs. Contact us today to get started and make your London getaway a reality!