I was asked by a young couple with two small children wanting to travel from L.A. to London, to help plan a trip.
I’d be delighted to help plan a fantastic trip for the young couple with two small children from L.A. to London!
Destination: London, England
Travel Dates: Around June or July
Family Travel Details:
- Couple’s ages: 25-35
- Children’s ages: 2-4 years old (young and curious!)
- Interests: Family-friendly attractions, outdoor activities, foodie adventures, and cultural experiences
- Budget: Moderate to luxurious ($5,000 – $10,000 for the entire trip)
Step 1: Flights from L.A. to London
To find affordable flights, I recommend flying with a reputable airline that offers competitive pricing, convenient schedules, and family-friendly amenities.
- Airlines: American Airlines, British Airways, Delta Air Lines, Emirates, or Virgin Atlantic
- Flight duration: Approximately 11 hours (with layovers)
- Recommended airlines:
- American Airlines: Offers non-stop flights from LAX to LHR with a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, featuring comfortable seating and in-flight entertainment.
- British Airways: Provides premium cabins, including First Class, Business Class, and Economy Plus, with a range of amenities like meal service, blankets, and pillows.
- Booking tips: Consider booking flights during the off-season (October to April) for better deals. Look for sales or discounts on your preferred airline’s website.
Step 2: Accommodation in London
Finding family-friendly accommodations that cater to young children is crucial. I recommend booking a hotel with amenities like a play area, kids’ club, or babysitting services.
- Hotel chains: InterContinental, Marriott, Hilton, and Premier Inn
- Recommended hotels:
- InterContinental London Park Lane: Offers spacious family rooms, a rooftop pool, and a kids’ program.
- The Goring Hotel: Features elegant family suites, a play area, and a kid-friendly menu.
- Park Plaza Westminster Bridge: Boasts modern family rooms, an indoor pool, and a dedicated kids’ club.
- Booking tips: Look for hotels with free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and easy access to transportation.
Step 3: Transportation in London
London has an excellent public transportation system. For families, I recommend purchasing a Visitor Oyster Card or a contactless payment card for convenient travel.
- Transportation options:
- The Tube (London Underground)
- Bus routes
- River Thames cruises
- Taxi services
- Recommended transportation:
- The London Pass: Offers discounted entry to attractions, public transportation, and exclusive experiences.
- Contactless payment cards: Easy to use, convenient, and cost-effective for families.
Step 4: Family-Friendly Attractions in London
London is a treasure trove of family-friendly activities. Here are some top recommendations:
- The British Museum: Free admission, featuring exhibits on ancient civilizations, cultures, and history.
- The Natural History Museum: Explore the wonders of nature, including dinosaur fossils and interactive displays.
- The London Zoo: Home to over 600 species, with a petting zoo and outdoor play areas.
- Hyde Park: A picturesque green space for picnics, boating, or simply enjoying the outdoors.
Step 5: Foodie Adventures in London
London is a foodie paradise! Some top recommendations for families:
- The Gingerbread Cafe: Whimsical treats and sweet delights.
- Dishoom: Delicious Indian cuisine with multiple locations throughout the city.
- Honest Burgers: Juicy burgers and shakes in a fun atmosphere.
- Pret a Manger: Quick, affordable meals with healthy options.
Step 6: Cultural Experiences in London
London offers an incredible array of cultural experiences for families. Here are some highlights:
- The Tower of London: Discover the rich history of this iconic fortress, featuring the Crown Jewels and the Yeoman Warders.
- Westminster Abbey: Explore the stunning architecture, stained glass, and historical significance of this historic church.
- The National Gallery: Enjoy free admission to an impressive collection of Western European art, including works by Van Gogh, Monet, and Leonardo da Vinci.
Step 7: Health and Safety
As a responsible travel agent, I want to ensure the family’s health and safety. Here are some essential tips:
- Vaccinations: Consult your doctor about recommended vaccinations for travel to the UK.
- Medications: Pack any necessary medications or prescriptions, including any specific needs for children.
- Travel insurance: Consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and delays.
Step 8: Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough estimate of costs for the entire trip:
- Flights from L.A. to London: $1,500 – $3,000
- Accommodation (5 nights): $800 – $2,000
- Transportation (Visitor Oyster Card or contactless payment card): $100 – $200
- Food and drink: $500 – $1,000
- Attractions and activities: $300 – $600
- Miscellaneous expenses: $200 – $400
Total estimated cost for the 5-day trip: $4,000 – $8,600
Step 9: Resources and References
For further planning and research, I recommend checking out these resources:
- Lonely Planet London: Comprehensive guidebook covering all aspects of travel in London.
- Visit London: Official tourism website offering insider tips and attractions.
- London Pass: Discounted entry to top attractions and experiences.
- National Trust: Non-profit organization providing access to historic sites, gardens, and parks.
Conclusion:
Planning a trip from L.A. to London with two small children requires attention to detail, but I’ve provided you with all the necessary information for an unforgettable family adventure! With my expert guidance, you’ll create lifelong memories in this incredible city.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. The prices and estimates mentioned in the article may be subject to change due to various market factors, such as exchange rates and currency fluctuations.
The author of this blog post has no affiliation with any of the websites or businesses mentioned, including but not limited to American Airlines, British Airways, InterContinental London Park Lane, The Goring Hotel, Park Plaza Westminster Bridge, Lonely Planet, Visit London, London Pass, National Trust, etc. Any opinions expressed in this article are based on general knowledge and research.
By using the resources and recommendations provided in this article, readers acknowledge that they have made their own informed decisions and assume all risks associated with traveling to London with young children. The author is not responsible for any losses or damages incurred as a result of relying on the information presented in this article.
Title: Rick Steves Pocket London Author: Rick Steves Publication Date: June 6, 2023 Format: Paperback Folded Map: Included
Book Summary:
This pocket-sized guidebook is a concise and practical travel companion for visitors to London. Written by renowned travel expert Rick Steves, the book provides insider tips and recommendations for exploring the city’s top attractions, neighborhoods, and hidden gems.
The book covers over 200 pages of content, including:
- A comprehensive map of London with key landmarks and points of interest
- Detailed descriptions of major museums, galleries, and historical sites
- Tips on how to navigate the city using public transportation
- Recommendations for restaurants, cafes, and pubs serving traditional British cuisine
- Insider advice on shopping, markets, and street food
- Practical information on accommodations, tours, and activities
Introduction:
Rick Steves is a well-known American author, travel expert, and TV personality who has been leading group tours in Europe since the 1970s. He’s known for his witty humor, practical advice, and insider knowledge of destinations around the world.
In this book, Steves shares his expertise on exploring London, from iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London to smaller, off-the-beaten-path attractions that reveal a more authentic side of the city.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive map: A foldable map of London is included at the beginning of the book, providing an overview of the city’s layout and key points of interest.
- Practical tips: Steves offers numerous practical tips for navigating the city, including advice on public transportation, shopping, and dining.
- Insider secrets: The author shares insider knowledge on hidden gems, local events, and authentic experiences that reveal a more genuine side of London.
- Recommendations: Steves provides recommendations for accommodations, tours, and activities, from classic museums to street food markets.
Target Audience:
This book is designed for independent travelers who want to explore London without breaking the bank. It’s perfect for:
- First-time visitors to London
- Travelers on a budget
- Solo travelers or couples looking for practical advice
- Families with older children (8+ years)
Language:
The book is written in clear, concise English, making it accessible to readers from around the world.
Overall, “Rick Steves Pocket London” is a reliable and informative guidebook that provides practical advice and insider tips for exploring one of the world’s greatest cities.