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The best city in Europe
By Ellen Widdup, Evening Standard 24.05.07
Watching the sun rise from Parliament Hill is a 'must' for visitors, says Lonely Planet
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Only five years ago, "backpacker's bible" Lonely Planet described London as a joyless, decaying city where people were more likely to attack you than extend a welcome.
But, according to the latest edition of its guide to Great Britain, the capital has enjoyed a dramatic renaissance since then. London is now "sailing high on a wave of determination, optimism and glee", with more to offer tourists than any other European city.
It is also the most "fashion-forward, ethnically diverse and artistically pioneering" cultural centre, offering the best in history and tradition alongside "glittering" modern architecture.
The guide scotches the common view of London as horrifically expensive and overcrowded, claiming the city can provide the very best for everyone from a budget traveller to a wealthy jetsetter.
It also praises the courage and grit of residents following the terrorist attacks in July 2005.
"Londoners are not easily beaten," say the authors. "The city now has its face firmly turned towards the future."
The guide notes improvements in all areas, from sight-seeing and eating out to hotel accommodation and public transport, and says the capital now has very little in the way of danger or things that annoy visitors.
"Londoners are a proud lot - and rightly so," say the authors. "The city is eye-boggling, huge and teeming with people but its vibrant multi-culturalism is a vital part of London's identity."
Eating out in the city is "five-star" thanks to a huge variety of places to go, including gastropubs, dim sum and gourmet burger outlets and a large selection of celebrity chef restaurants.
Similarly, says the guide, entertainment value is provided by the "excellent comedy, theatre, superclubs, DJ bars, and growing number of activity venues".
Visitor "musts" include a ride on the London Eye, a visit to the National Portrait Gallery and watching the sun rise from Parliament Hill.
Something for everyone. Guide's top five...
Places to drink in the sunshine Cafe Kick, Exmouth Market
Flask, Highgate West Hill
George Inn, Borough High Street
Queen Mary, Waterloo Pier
Windsor Castle, Campden Hill Road
Brunch spots
Al's Bar & Cafe, Exmouth Market
Canteen, Spitalfields Market, Crispin Place
Hoxton Square Bar & Kitchen, Hoxton Square
The Providores, Marylebone High Street
The Wolseley, Piccadilly
Places to potter
Portobello Road
Marylebone High Street
Brick Lane
Exmouth Market
Hampstead High Street
Festivals & events
The London Art Fair, January
Chinese New Year, late January/early February Chelsea Flower Show, May
Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championships, June-July Notting Hill Carnival, August
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