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I just finished my first trip to London and Europe this past summer and so I understand the newbie factor.
1. Heathrow - you can get from the airport either by subway (the tube as they call it) or the Heathrow Express Train. I'd choose the later as its a nice comfortable ride and if you can afford it I'd say travel first class. The Heathrow Express travels to Paddington Station. From there you can subway or taxi wherever you are going. Unfortunately I am NOT familiar with the City Inn so not really sure if there is a better route to take but I am sure others with help you out. I stayed near Kensington Palace so the taxi ride to Paddington was short and inexpensive.
2. I understand there is a train to the port in Harwich so I think training it is best. Unfortunately I am unfamiliar with Harwich as I went to Southampton. So hopefully others can help on this one.
3. Must sees in London? Well we stayed in London for 5 days and saw: The Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, The Royal Albert Hall, the British Museum, the Victoria & Albert Museum and still didn't get to see everything we wanted. Reality check: London is big and you go with the knowledge you can't see everything but hopefully with the knowledge you'll be going back. He he he! We are as we're returning in October 2008. But still do any of the above and you should be happy. They are all in the core of the city which runs from the original City to Kensingston at the furthest point west. All are easily accessible from each other by tube so getting a 3 day transit pass before you leave home is probably the best way to get around the city. If you have the money and love theatre I also recommend seeing something in the West End. Can you guess that we absolutely fell in love with London!
Warning! London and the UK is expensive for most of us North Americans. However, go with that knowledge and enjoy. Don't let it get to you or you'll not do anything and miss out on a wonderful cultural experience.
David
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