We may be biased, but we happen to think that one of the finest times to visit London is that golden week between Christmas and New Year’s, where the department stores sparkle, the pubs are at peak coziness (who doesn’t want to drink a pint of Guinness by a roaring fire?), and the 65-foot Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square sits center stage. What’s more, there’s never been a cheaper time to book a trip: Since Britain’s Brexit vote, the pound has seen an almighty drop against other currencies—earlier this month it hit a 168-year low—making airfares a steal, and the price of a designer handbag just a pinch of what it costs stateside.
With this in mind, we dedicated this week’s Travelogue podcast to all things London, courtesy of two born-and-bred Londoners (and Condé Nast Traveler editors). We tell you where to get the best Indian and Pakistani food (because London has far more to offer than just traditional pub grub), how to live out your very own Downton Abbey-esque shopping experience, and where to find one of the best views of the city. We also dissect the intricate web of neighborhoods that make up the British capital—a place that can, at times, feel somewhat overwhelming to a first-timer. Whether you’re aching to take in the best of London’s museums and department stores, or if eating top-class ceviche in Soho before bar hopping in gritty Dalston is more your ticket, we’ve got you covered.
Thanks to Traveler's Brad Rickman, Mark Ellwood, and Lale Arikoglu for offering their take, and Brett Fuchs for being our reliable engineer/editor/magician. Check back next Friday for our latest installment of Travelogue. To keep up with our podcast each week, subscribe to Travelogue on the iTunes store.