Happy Monday traveler!

We’re off to London this week. This is a two thousand year old place with some incredible history. The buildings are iconic and you can feel the energy everywhere.

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A message from Passport Inspiration

Looking to plan an inspiring adventure right now?

Planning an international trip can be overwhelming but it doesn’t have to be.

How?

You just need a plan for your plan.

It’s important to prepare with enough time for things like:

• Visas

• Dining

• Lodging

• Passports

• Excursions

• Travel Arrangements

  If you want a head start planning, we can help you prepare for an amazing trip.

🙌🏼This Week’s Inspiration

London, England offers a perfect mix of royal history, modern culture, festive charm, and unforgettable sights, whether it's your first visit or a return adventure.

We find it inspirational because there are centuries-old landmarks standing beside cutting-edge architecture, showing the power of progress and tradition together.

Be sure to do these activities:

Visit the Tower of London
Step into over 1,000 years of British history at this famous fortress on the Thames.

Explore the medieval towers, meet the Yeoman Warders (also known as Beefeaters), and don’t miss the dazzling Crown Jewels on display. It's also known for its spooky legends and tales of royal prisoners.

See Elizabeth Tower, the Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey
Big Ben is the nickname for the giant bell inside the Elizabeth Tower, one of London’s most famous landmarks. The tower stands at the north end of the Houses of Parliament and was renamed in honor of Queen Elizabeth II in 2012. When the clock strikes, you can hear its deep chimes echoing across the city.

The Houses of Parliament, also known as the Palace of Westminster, is where the UK government meets and important laws are made. Visitors can take guided tours to explore its stunning rooms, historic Westminster Hall, and even watch debates when Parliament is in session. It’s a great way to experience the heart of British democracy.

Westminster Abbey offers tours for a fee, but prayer services are open to the public and free to attend.

*Note - photos/videos are not permitted if attending a prayer service.

Explore the British Museum
This museum showcases the history of human culture from around the world and is home to more than 8 million artifacts.

See ancient treasures like the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, and Greek sculptures.

👏🏼Even better…it’s completely free to enter!

Tour Buckingham Palace
Visit the official residence of the British monarch and see the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony outside.

If you’re lucky and the royal flag is flying, it means the King is home! In summer, parts of the palace are open for public tours.

Take a Thames River Cruise
Hop on a boat and see London from the water for a unique perspective of the city.

You'll pass under famous bridges and float by landmarks like the London Eye, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Tower Bridge. It’s a peaceful way to rest your feet while sightseeing!

Wander through Camden Market
This vibrant market is full of quirky stalls selling everything from handmade jewelry to street food from around the world.

Enjoy live music, explore vintage shops, and take in the creative, edgy vibe of Camden. It’s a great place to pick up unique souvenirs.

See a West End Show
London’s West End is famous for its world-class theatre productions. From musicals like The Lion King to classic plays and new hits, there’s something for everyone.

Book ahead or try for discounted same-day tickets in Leicester Square.

Stroll through the Royal Parks
Escape the bustle of the city in one of London’s peaceful green spaces like Hyde Park (noted below for the Winter Wonderland), Kensington Gardens, or St. James’s Park.

You’ll find beautiful walking paths, ponds with ducks and swans, and even royal palaces nearby. Bring a picnic or just relax in the fresh air.

Cross Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge isn’t just beautiful. It’s also a working drawbridge that sometimes opens for boats to pass.

You can walk across and even go inside to learn about its history and walk along the glass walkway high above the river. It’s an exciting stop for both kids and adults!

🎄 London at Christmastime: A Winter Wonderland

London becomes magical during the holidays, with twinkling lights, festive markets, and cozy vibes all around.

Don’t miss the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, a huge Christmas fair with ice skating, carnival rides, market stalls, and holiday treats. It's like stepping into a festive dream. Make sure to check out the Ice Slide!

Another must-do:

Hop on a double-decker bus tour in the evening to see the Christmas lights sparkle across Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Covent Garden. Some buses even play carols and offer hot cocoa for the ride.

We loved this tour but didn’t appreciate it to the fullest until we tried walking down those streets a few nights later. Oxford and Regent Street were packed with tourists all trying to get pictures of the Christmas lights.

When you’re on the double-decker tour, you can sit back and enjoy the lights as they skim over the top of your head.

How to Get to London:

To get to London, you can fly into one of its major airports like Heathrow, Gatwick, or Stansted, which all have easy connections to the city center.

Once you're in London, the best way to get around is by using public transportation, which is fast, affordable, and well-connected.

The Tube (London Underground) is a network of trains that run all over the city. Follow the colored lines on the map to reach your destination.

You can also ride the famous red double-decker buses, which are great for sightseeing as you travel. Use an Oyster card or contactless payment to hop on and off buses and trains easily.

Citizens of the United States must apply for must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before you travel.

Where to Stay:

The Savoy - luxury hotel on the River Thames

Claridge’s - known as London’s art deco jewel

Premier Inn London County Hall - near popular tourist spots

The Gyle - close to King’s Cross

What to Eat:

London is full of delicious foods to try, from classic British dishes to flavors from around the world.

Popular must-tries include fish and chips, served hot with vinegar and mushy peas, and a full English breakfast with eggs, bacon, sausage, beans, and toast.

For something truly British, enjoy afternoon tea with finger sandwiches, scones, and sweet pastries.

At Christmastime, London’s markets and restaurants offer festive treats like mince pies, roast turkey with stuffing, Yorkshire puddings, and Christmas pudding for dessert.

You’ll also find cozy drinks like mulled wine and hot chocolate, perfect for warming up after a day of sightseeing.

What to Pack:

The weather in London can change quickly, so bring a waterproof jacket, scarf, and umbrella.

These womens fleece-lined leggings are great for chilly weather. Bring comfortable shoes for walking because London is best explored on foot.

You’ll need a Power adapter (UK uses Type G plugs). A small daypack for sightseeing essentials like a water bottle, portable charger, and map or phone is a must.

It gets chilly at night, especially in the winter, so make sure to pack warm clothes.

👋 Have an Inspiring Week

Here are a few of our affiliate links to help you when in London. It’s no extra cost to you and helps us keep this email free for everyone. 😀

• Ultimate London One Day Tour - if you’re pressed for time

• The London Eye Entry Ticket - ride the ferris wheel for stunning city views

• Buckingham Palace: The Stateroom Entrance - ever wonder what it’s like inside?

• Westminster Abbey Entrance Ticket - so many historical events have taken place here!

• Tower Bridge Entry Ticket - one of Trisha’s favorite places in London

• Christmas Lights Nighttime Bus Tour - highly recommend to avoid the crowds

See you next week,

Trisha & Bob