Jet lag can be so demanding. Within an hour of arriving in London, my case led me to a 5.50 pound (about $7) slice of lemon, raspberry and pistachio cake at the cafe in the Victoria and Albert Museum. The museum itself was free and included the unquantifiable payoff of dining in opulent 1868-vintage rooms with arches, stained glass and William Morris wallpaper.
It fit my bottom line on travel in London: Free museums, priceless surroundings and slightly expensive food that together deliver a net gain.
An opulent 1868-vintage dining room at the Victoria and Albert Museum’s cafe.
Entrance to the museum is free. The cake costs 5.50 pounds (about $7).
Though London often winds up on lists of the world’s most expensive cities, travelers will find free attractions and arresting architecture linked by easy-to-navigate public transportation.
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Hotel prices often seem high. But unlike rates in the United States, they generally include taxes and extras like breakfast — and no surprise $30 amenity fees at check out. And tipping is not standard, saving 15 to 20 percent on each meal.
There are many worthy ways to splurge in London, including visiting landmarks like the Tower of London (£35), Westminster Abbey (£30) and St. Paul’s Cathedral (£26).
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