As the new month has passed, we are still looking forward to discovering new destinations to travel this year.

For the month of love, let’s experience the unique charm of London.

The capital city of the United Kingdom, London, remains to be the most visited metropolis around the world. It offers numerous landmarks which are mix of both old and contemporary places.

Touring the city by bus

Make the most of your stay by hopping on board the city’s iconic double-decker bus. Operated by a few private bus lines, some of these double decker-buses are roofless guaranteeing travelers a fully enjoyable journey from one landmark to the next.

Some of the favorite includes the Palace of Westminster with the ever famous Big Ben; The Shard, considered as the highest skyscraper in the country; and The Tower Bridge with the Tower of London a few walks away from it.

Constructed along the banks of the Thames River, Palace of Westminster is significant for the Royal Family’s noteworthy events. The palace’s exterior façade is dominated by its three major towers namely; the Central Tower standing over 299 feet and topped with a spire; the Victoria Tower also known as the King’s Tower which houses an estimated three million parliamentary documents such as the Bill of Rights and the Acts of Parliament; and lastly the Elizabeth Tower affectionately called by many as the Big Ben.

Serving as the main seat of parliament, Palace of Westminster only admits guided tours during Saturdays with the exception for when the Royal Family is inside the premises. Tour includes a walk in the Victoria Tower Garden, the only garden in the palace open for the public; Westminster Hall; the Royal Gallery; the Prince’s and Lord’s Chamber; and the Stranger’s Bar, the dinning hub inside the palace meant for use by the visitors.

Outside the Palace of Westminster, visitors can also enter inside the Westminster Abbey. It is a church beside the palace and an important venue for the Royal Family’s coronation, weddings, and memorial services. Moreover, view the Buckingham Palace which is also located in the Westminster borough of London. While visitors are strictly prohibited to enter inside the premises, the architectural beauty of the Buckingham Palace is still a sight to behold.

Cross over the River Thames through the Tower Bridge, London’s most famous suspension and drawbridge. The iconic bridge is famous among the tourists. As an added attraction, visitors can also go sailing and cruising under the Tower Bridge.

A few walks away from the Tower Bridge, travelers can visit the Tower of London, a World Heritage Site and a witness to United Kingdom’s rich history. Rarely used by the British nobles, as of today it serves as a museum and the home of the Royal Family’s crown jewels. The structure’s main features include the St. Thomas Tower where the newly restored bedchamber of Edward I’ is located; the Royal Menagerie where once the king’s wild animals are kept; and the White Tower serving as the fortress’ symbol of strength and power.

Another attraction worth seeing during your stay in London is The Shard, United Kingdom’s highest known skyscraper. Designed by Renzo Piano, an Italian Architect, in the year 2009, the building is named for its shard-like structure. The exterior of the building is made of out glass and offers an open-air viewing deck on the 72nd floor. Although The Shard is used mainly for commercial purposes, visitors can still book a room in hotels located inside and as well as dine a sumptuous meal in the gourmet restaurants of Aqua Shard, Hutong, and Oblix.

A day of shopping spree

Spend a day of shopping and looking for great finds in London’s Covent Garden. The place offers tourists a wide range of activities; from shopping to dining and drinking to visiting historical landmarks.

Among the few landmarks seen within the Covent Garden are the Royal Opera House and the Theatre Royal, both showcasing many cultural performances and operas; the Convent Garden piazza and market where shops sell local and international products; last but not the least, the St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Evening revelries come to life in the Covent Garden Market when pubs and bars officially open. Among the most populated ones are The Salisbury located in St. Martin’s Lane; The Harp hailed as the London Pub of the Year; and The Lamb and Flag considered as the oldest among all pubs in the area. However if you prefer a more peaceful dining experience, visit The Rules. Other restaurants worthy of a visit are the J. Sheekey Oyster Bar and Fish Restaurant and the Beefsteak Club.

Another shopping district famous among tourists is the Leadenhall Market located in Gracechurch Street. Customers can buy raw products and fresh meats as well as many souvenir items to take home.

Love in the London Eye

Standing majestically over 443 feet, the London Eye is considered as the highest Ferris Wheel in Europe and remains to be one of the most popular attractions in the city. After the thirty minute ride in the London Eye, spend the rest of the evening as you may also cruise along the River Thames.

Whether you’re traveling abroad or just around the metro, exploring different destinations is more meaningful when shared with a special someone. This February, spend a romantic and memorable date in London.