After last week's column on Nairobi, I was going to follow on to Mombasa but seeing as we're one week away from Christmas, I've decided to write about London, one of my favourite cities for Christmas. The past week in London has been bitterly cold but a few layers, gloves and a good pair of boots had me walking around and soaking in the festive atmosphere.
Here are my recommendations. Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park will most set the mood for Christmas. There's an ice rink, rides for children and adults and stalls selling arts and crafts — and don't miss out on the fat chips, burgers, crepes, and then churros and hot chocolate to top it off. I just couldn't resist them!
If you love plays and musicals, why not check in at the Haymarket Hotel, in the centre of the theatre district? Indulge in an afternoon tea and mince pies at the hotel before going to take a look at the majestic Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square and enjoying the evening carols, after which you can head to the theatre. Don't forget your swimwear — the pool at Haymarket has a stylish lure. If it's a choice of restaurants you're after, walk to Upper St Martin's Lane, which has new eateries, from Mexican and Italian to Indian and Japanese. I ended up at Dishoom — I can't wait to go back for the lassi.
But Christmas won't be complete without the famous lights and elaborate window displays. With little moving fairies, Harrods' Peter Pan theme this year most certainly steals the show. Check out the Narnia theme on Regent Street and the Space Age extravaganza on Carnaby Street when you're shopping away after Boxing Day.
Are you looking to do something entirely different on Christmas Day?
Let London Walks (www.walks.com) take you through the quiet streets of the city's rich past. Choose from Samuel Pepys's London and Charles Dickens's London Walk. You could also attend a traditional Christmas service or a concert. From St Paul's Cathedral and the services at Westminster Abbey to the concerts at Southbank Centre and Royal Albert Hall, there is a lot to pick from. Check the Carols and Services section on www.londontown.com for more details.
I almost forgot ice skating, such a treat when you're surrounded by the capital's most beautiful and historical buildings, from Somerset House and Natural History Museum — my personal favourite — to Hampton Court, Tower of London and Windsor Castle. And who knows — it might just be a white Christmas.
— Check out Meera's blog www.meera-ashish.com for more on Christmas
