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Rick Steves' London 2006 (Rick Steves' London)
Books: Travel: Bath: Item 8
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Rick Steves' London 2006 (Rick Steves' London)by Rick Steves and Gene Openshaw
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Invaluable!, July 3, 2006 Reviewer:Jody "jody@vanwert.com" (Northwest Ohio) - Having previously taken two of Rick Steves' guided trips (Paris and Rome), and found them both thorough and memorable,when I had the opportunity to visit London, I purchased this book, along with two others. After the second day, I discarded the others and carried this one everywhere. The "must see" list, Tube map, and walking and museum tours were clear and easy to follow, although I could disagree with the distances and times to allow guidelines in a few cases--notably the Tower of London, which the book described as a two hour tour and which I found could easily be an all day sightseeing event. The inclusion of the appropriate Tube stop for each sight was extremely useful, along with the grouping of geographically proximate sights. Although London is staggeringly expensive, this book makes it possible to experience it as a native, without going into debt. If you're reading this review, no doubt you are planning a trip to London. Go! Here are a couple of tips: Although taxis in London are a bargain, and most cabbies a fountain of information who seem to like Americans, by all means purchase a Zones 1 and 2 Oyster card at a Tube station or newsstand, and reserve taxis for when you absolutely cannot walk another step. For 22 pounds ($39.60), you can go anywhere you need to for a week or so. My card paid for itself in a day and a half. A Tube station is never more than a block or two from the major sights and the Underground is fun and sooooo easy to use. If you mind your manners, Londoners will go out of their way to be helpful. I always began by saying, "Please excuse me for being an idiot American, but I can't seem to find..." and following up with profuse thanks. Even the stiffest Brit smiled and provided directions. Dress appropriately--no windbreakers, raggedy jeans, visors, or white athletic shoes. It makes a huge difference in how you're treated. London is a vibrant, energetic city and the people who live and work there are very proud of it. Dressing respectfully acknowledges that, and the locals appreciate it. They also appreciate well-informed tourists, and I highly recommend boning up on English history and culture before making the trip. During our Original London Bus Tour, the guide came over and said, "I can't tell you how nice it is to give a tour to people who actually know where they are" and proceeded to give us some tips about places to go that aren't in any guidebook. Know where you are! Rick Steves is the righteous guru of European travel. If you have this book, you really don't need another, but any guidebook is only the beginning of your adventure.
Book Description
Who but Rick Steves can tell travelers the best way to see the British Museum, Westminster Abbey, St. Paul's, and the Tower of London? With Rick Steves’ London 2006, travelers can experience the best of everything this city has to offer – economically and hassle-free. Completely revised and updated, Rick Steves’ London 2006 includes opinionated coverage of both famous and lesser-known sights; friendly places to eat and sleep; suggested day plans; walking tours and trip itineraries; clear instructions for smooth travel anywhere by car, train, or foot; and Rick’s newest "back door" discoveries. America’s #1 authority on travel to Europe, Rick’s time-tested recommendations for safe and enjoyable travel in Europe have been used by millions of Americans in search of their own unique European travel experience.
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