Yes, it’s getting to that time of year again that you might be planning a London vacation during the Christmas period. London offers a wonderful experience for tourists to London during this time of year. From the moment the Christmas lights are turned on in Regent Street and Oxford Street to last person stumbles home on New Years Eve there is so much to see and do.

If you into shopping then no doubt there will be shops offering sales to fight for the big bucks in the Christmas run in. The glitz and glamour that the small and large shops put together is truly superb and only adds to a unique shopping experience. The markets of London are a hive of activity also and you can find some excellent bargains and plenty of novelty items and gifts. Markets such as Portobello Road, Bermondsey (get up early!), Brick Lane and many more offer the inquisitive insight into the London street market and always deliver.

The Christmas season also offers the usual theatre extravaganza. Apart from the mainstream shows that always fill up the festive favourites rear their head again. Productions of “A Christmas Carol”, “The Nutcracker” and the great British pantomime force their way into the public view and keep children and parents alike thoroughly entertained.

It is of course business as usual at all of London’s famous sights. But be on the look out for special tours at galleries and promotions on attractions like the London Eye and Madame Tussaud’s. Check out the “London Pass” to help you get value for money and take advantage of all that is on offer in London at this time of year.

Eating out in London at Christmas is always fun. No matter where you go you are sure to fall across an office party or the Londoner out with friends taking in the Christmas spirit. London is now arguably the culinary capital of the world and no matter what your taste buds are like there is something somewhere to suit all. Whether it’s a steak or a Mongolian speciality you will be well catered for.

Finally no trip is possible unless you can find somewhere to stay. Hotels in London offer special rates for early bookings and there are many websites and booking agencies that can offer discounts on good hotels. If you are planning to stay over New Year try and book as early as you can as there is always a late surge for rooms as the month of December moves along.