Posts Tagged ‘travel’

London is one of the priciest cities in the world so it is crucial that the frugal tourist take advantages of bargains. And there are bargains.
The Oyster Card
In my opinion, one of the best deals for the frugal London tourist is the Oyster Card. This transit card (can be obtained at underground stops including the one at Heathrow) comes with a 3 £ deposit (this deposit is refunded when you return the card) and can be charged with the amount of money needed (any excess will also be refunded).
The beauty of this card is that it calculates the best transit deal for you. It caps out at the day pass rate. That means that you can spend the day on one of those very London red double decker bus, exploring neighborhoods, hopping on and off at stops like the Marble Arch, or Harrods (to window shop) or Portobello Market (for antiques).
Changing Of The Guards
Of course, while in London, a tourist should go see the Queen and the rest of the Royal Family. The closest the average tourist can get is peaking in at the gates of Buckingham Palace and when better to do that than during the changing of the guard.
Every day at 11:30 am, the guards are changed at Buckingham Palace in a rich and colorful ceremony. This free event is usually packed so get there early (activities start at 10:45) or you’ll only be seeing the changing of the Bearskins (those distinctive hats the guards wear).
Charity Shops
British suits are known world wide for style and quality. However, brand new, they are a bit pricey for the frugal traveler. An option is the numerous charity (consignment) shops sprinkled throughout the city.
The quality of the charity shops depend on the quality of the neighborhood. Some shops are filled with designer, haute couture fashion, even outfits worn by Hollywood stars.
The National Gallery And Trafalgar Square
The National Gallery in the famous Trafalgar Square hosts over 2,300 paintings, one of the greatest collections of Western European painting in the world, and its free. Absolutely free (donations are welcomed). Perfect for one of the rainy days London is known for.
London, England has some bargains for the frugal traveler. The Oyster Card provides frugal transportation. The Changing Of The Guard and The National Gallery supplies free entertainment. Frugal shopping can be done at Charity Shops.

Introduction
Beckenham is a small town which is situated within London Borough, Bromley in England. Beckenham was initially referred to as Bacheham however the name Beckenham derives from Beohha’s Homestead or Farmhouse which is also known as Beohhan-ham in Old English. The Beck River that flows through this area is named after Beckenham. This town has remained a substantial town until the introduction of railways and also the Crystal Palace. John Cator the person behind transforming a small village into a significant town in the 17th century. ST George Church that is located at the heart of Beckenham possesses a 13th century lichgate which is said to be one of the oldest lichgates in England.
Nearby Tourist Attractions -
There are several famous nearby tourist attractions which include Crofton roman Villa, Eltham Palace, Chislehurst Caves, Horniman Museum & Garden, National Maritime Museum, Morden Hall Park, Bromley Museum, The Dome, Design Museum, Royal Artillery Museum and Pumphouse Educational Museum. Beckenham also has some important places which are quite famous such as Chinese Garage, Kelsey Park, South Norwood Country Park, Croydon Road Recreation Ground, Beckenham Place Park, St George’s Parish Church and Beckenham Crematorium.
South Norwood Country Park
South Norwood Country Park is situated close to the Elmer’s End Railway Station in South Norwood in the Borough of Croydon. Spread over 50 hectares of green space this park was opened in the year 1989. This area was previously used for sewage farms providing the developing population of London. The Croydon Sports Arena which the home for Croydon Football Club is situated on the southern edge of this park. There is even a visitor center and a car park that holds annual open days that includes guided walks, skittle alley, refreshments, pole lathe demonstration and face painting in order to raise consciousness for this park.
Kelsey Park
Kelsey Park is one of the biggest parks located the town of Beckenham in the borough of Bromley in South London. There is a memorial tree which is planted on October 1007 in this park and is dedicated to Ben Hitchcock who was killed on 23rd June 2007. There is a college in Beckenham which is usually named after the Kelsey Park.
Croydon Road Recreation Ground
Croydon Road Recreation Ground is said to be a public park situated in Beckenham in the borough of Bromley. This public park is just adjacent to one of the famous Beckenham Hospital and features a bandstand, a bowling green, café and few other facilities. In the year 1902, a first airmail flight of UK left from this park and traveled to Calais by a hot air balloon.
Chinese Garage
Chinese Garage Building is a garage and was previously used to be a petrol station. This garage is located just close by to the Kelsey Park in the borough of Bromley. Designed by Edmund Clarke and built in 1928, this Chinese Garage building is in fact in the Japanese Pagoda style. This garage received the award for one of the best petrol stations in the year 1939 which was organized by Daily Express.

Are you an American who is interested in traveling overseas? If so, have you decided on a destination yet? Although you have a number of great destinations to choose from, one that you should closely examine is that of London, England.
As nice as it is to hear that London, England is the perfect destination for your next overseas trip, you may be wondering why. What it is that sets London apart from the rest? Continue reading on to find out.
1 – It Is Perfect for Individuals of All Ages
Many people automatically make the mistake of believing that overseas vacations are best left for the adults. Yes, this can be true in some instances, but not in London. In London, you will find that individuals of all ages are welcomed and will have a memorable trip.
So, even if you are the parent of a pre-schooler or a teenager, or perhaps you’re a senior citizen enjoying your retirement, a trip to London is not out of your reach.
2 – It Is Perfect for All Types of Travel
Not only is London perfect for individuals of all ages, but it is also perfect for all types of travel. Popular reasons for travel to London include romantic getaways, family vacations, solo explorations, honeymoons, anniversaries, and business trips. Regardless of why you are traveling to London or what you hope to get out of your trip, you will have the time of your life!
3 – Its Attractions
As for why London is perfect for individuals of all ages and all types of travel, it has to do with attractions. In London, you have hundreds of noteworthy attractions to choose from. There are must-visits that all are encouraged to see, including Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge, the London Eye and St. Paul’s Cathedral.
Then there are attractions that appeal to those with special interests and specific age groups. Families are encouraged to visit the Imperial War Museum and the London Aquarium and perhaps one of the many Royal Parks (such as Hyde Park, Regent’s Park and Green Park) or maybe if you’re seeking adventure with a touch of horror you should visit the London Dudgeon. Adults, meanwhile, can indulge themselves with a trip to one of London’s many theaters or perhaps a visit to a pub.
It cannot be stressed enough that there is something for everyone in London.
4 – Its Activities
In addition to visiting the attractions already mentioned, there are many activities that you can participate in while visiting London. These activities include dining, shopping (all budgets and tastes are catered for) and sightseeing. In terms of sightseeing, a guided tour is recommended. Double-decker buses make the experience exciting and memorable. Due to the beautiful atmosphere and friendly residents, something as simple as an afternoon relaxing in Hyde Park can be a moment to remember and treasure forever.
5 – Affordability
Yes, overseas vacations can be costly. The biggest cost of traveling to London will be your airline tickets. As for your hotel, there are hundreds of hotels near and in London. Price-compare to find the best rates. If traveling on a budget, you do not have to stay at a high-end hotel. As with restaurants and shopping in London, the city provides accommodation to suit all budgets and tastes.
As for attractions, you may be surprised how many offer free admission. For example, you can visit the Houses of Parliament and watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace free of charge. Also, the superb museums in London, such as the Victoria & Albert, the Natural History museum and the Science Museum are also free to get in.
As highlighted above, there are a number of reasons why London should be your next overseas destination. If you opt to travel to England, it will not be a decision you regret. Before you make your travel arrangements, however, make sure you have a valid passport. A passport is required for admittance into the United Kingdom from the United States. Also, if you’re reading this and you do not live in the US, you’ll need to check to see if you need to apply for a visa.
For more information about applying for a visa in order to visit London, England (including just finding out if you need one at all) and for London tips, hints and suggestions you won’t find anywhere else on the internet, please click on the link below and sign up for our free newsletter to keep you informed without you even having to lift a finger.