London: Mind the Gap, Love
In England's regal capital city, you'll find winding old streets perfect for walking down hand in hand, parks brimming with benches for late afternoon chats, and quaint restaurants with cozy nooks for sharing tea and hot scones. For those looking for a taste of culture, the city's art museums house internationally famous paintings and many would contend that London's theater scene is the best in the world. Whether you're taking a dinner cruise on the Thames, strolling through Notting Hill market on a Saturday, or watching Romeo & Juliet in the Shakespearean Globe Theater, this is the kind of city where romance is around every charming corner. —Sarah Crosland
Where to Stay
The Langham London (london.langhamhotels.co.uk), just off Regent Street in the enchanting Mayfair neighborhood, is a majestic hotel with a rich history. After its opening as a luxury hotel in 1865, the Langham has hosted famed guests like Napoleon III, Oscar Wilde, and Mark Twain. After a major refurbishment in 2009, it is now one of the most beautiful and luxurious hotels in the city. The hotel features the new glamorous Artesian rum bar, a contemporary restaurant called the Landau, and the Palm Court Champagne lounge. In addition to the new areas, the hotel's guestrooms, ballroom, and lobby are now more stunning than ever, decorated in deep tones of purple and pale pinks. The large, opulent rooms offer plenty of space for relaxing with a glass of wine and view of the prestigious neighborhood at the end of a day exploring the city. Rooms from $400 per night.
By Day
From this central location, all of London is at your fingertips. Marylebone High Street, a delightful area filled with specialty shops and inviting cafeĢs, is a short walk away, as is Regent's Park, with its 410 acres of formal gardens, charming playgrounds, and a peaceful canal. To enjoy some of the city's best art, catch the nearby tube (there's a stop at Oxford Circus, just a few blocks away) to Trafalgar Square, where you can see the famous lion statues, tour the National Gallery (nationalgallery.org.uk), and then take a quick walk to Covent Garden to enjoy its popular street performers and shops. After a day of touring and shopping, return to the Langham for afternoon tea in the elegant Palm Court, which claims to be where the tradition of afternoon tea was born 140 years ago. Make sure to order the specialty rose-flavored tea to enjoy alongside the scones and rich sandwiches.
By Night
London's world-renowned nightlife has a burgeoning culinary scene, bustling theater district, and chic nightclubs. Just off Regent Street you'll find the bar and restaurant sketch (sketch.uk.com), whose Lecture Room & Library has earned a Michelin star. Chef Jean-Denis Le Bras presides over the kitchen, which turns out tasty dishes like eggplant cannelloni filled with artichoke cream. For a meal with true international flair, a quick black cab ride away you'll find Buddha Bar (buddhabarlondon.com), the swanky restaurant offering pan-Asian fare. With its exciting lighting and discreet entrance across from the Thames, this iconic London restaurant is the perfect spot to cozy up and enjoy some of the city's sexiest dishes.
What to Pack
London is one of the world's most fashionable cities, and when you're staying in its most stylish neighborhood, you'll want to look the part. However, dress comfortably, as you'll be doing plenty of walking -- even if it's just to the next tube stop. Also, London is notorious for its rainy weather, so don't forget to pack an umbrella.
