London
London is a fascinating and culturally vibrant city that offers an array of iconic landmarks and dynamic energy that attracts people from all over the world.
We recently had the opportunity to visit London, and not only did we enjoy the traditional sights, but we explored some of the history and inspiration of some of the most famous spy novels in modern popular culture.
We started our adventure with a visit to the iconic sites of the city including Tower Bridge – the iconic bridge often mistaken as the London Bridge and the London Eye, the world’s largest cantilevered observation wheel. We followed along to Buckingham Palace, the Royal Residence in London The British Museum, home to over 2 million year of history.
From there, we jumped off the streets of London and onto the pages of intrigue, mystery and international spies.
We took part in The Ian Fleming Mayfair Tour which offered an immersive journey through the upscale London district that inspired much of the world of James Bond. The guided tour took us through key locations associated with Ian Fleming, and his iconic character.
The next stop was the Churchill War Rooms, located near the Old War Office in London, a historic underground complex that served as the British government’s command center during World War II. These bunkers were the nerve center for Prime Minister Winston Churchill and his cabinet, where they strategized and directed the war effort against Nazi Germany.
The next day started with a private driver that picked us up and took us to the Aston Martin Heritage Trust Museum in Oxfordshire. The Trust preserves the iconic connection between Aston Martin and legendary films of the past. The Trust maintains this legacy through meticulous archival efforts, exhibits, and events, ensuring that Aston Martin remains a symbol of British elegance, innovation, and cinematic history.
What visit to London would be complete without stopping by Harrod’s, a department store with over 300 boutiques, 20 restaurants and its famous Food Halls with delicacies form all over the world.
We finished the day at Dukes Bar at Dukes Hotel, famed for its intimate ambiance and legendary martinis and where Fleming famously crafted the Vesper Martini. The intimate and timeless surroundings, coupled with the world-class bartender team service at the helm, DUKES Bar provided the perfect setting for an unforgettable moment. Strangely, our drinks were shaken not stirred – except for the lager!
The highlight of our stay was the Junior Suite at the luxurious Raffles London at The OWO (Old War Office). This historic building built in 1906 is rich with British military and intelligence history. It has been transformed into a lavish hotel while maintaining its historical essence, making it a perfect retreat. This unparalleled experience blends history, luxury, and the thrill of espionage, promising an unforgettable journey. No visit to London would be complete without exploring the famous neighborhoods of Piccadilly, Leicester Square, Knightsbridge and Regent Street.
Whether you are looking for culture, great cuisine, literary inspirations, or iconic historical locations, London is a perfect ESCAPADITA.
