Instantly evoking memories of Dickens' Scrooge and a million quaint greetings cards, London is one of the Christmasiest cities in the world. The shops, streets and homes of Londoners are overcome with the holiday spirit. Lamp posts are strung with colored lights, shop windows are decorated with seasonal delights, and homes are festooned with festive decorations, inside and out. For families visiting the British capital at Christmas time, London is nothing short of a winter wonderland. A walk along any main street will present another crowd of carol singers and rosy-cheeked shoppers wrapped up tight against the cold. A great way for the entire family to embrace the Christmas spirit is to pay a visit to the Natural History Museum Ice Rink and Christmas Fair, one of the city's premier attractions sponsored by British Airways. As the winter evenings close in, the ice rink is transformed into a magical setting as 76,000 Christmas lights illuminate the surrounding trees and making the rink simply glitter. Overlooking the ice rink, the Café Bar serves a delicious winter menu and gives spectators and non-skaters a chance to unwind with mulled wine. A trip to the theater is always a delight and London has plenty of shows for audiences of all ages. Perhaps look for a pantomime - the uniquely British holiday tradition that has thrilled children for generations. Almost every venue in the city decks its halls: parks, shops, restaurants all embrace the holiday spirit. For a bird's-eye-view of London, head to British Airways' London Eye. Bejeweled in a dazzling display of lights, the Eye lets you take in the sight of the city from on high. For Christmas lights, there's no shortage of places to visit. From the whole of Islington (which will include a giant angel erected near the tube station) to the likes of Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Bond Street. And for the ultimate Christmas tree, head to Trafalgar Square where you'll find the impressive tree, an annual gift from Norway. Shopping for Christmas goodies? The sumptuous offerings at Harrods might not be affordable for everyone, but they're a joy for visitors nonetheless. Fortnum & Mason are suppliers of fine fare to the Royal family and Hamley's is a veritable Santa's grotto of a toy shop. London during the festive season is a veritable wonderland for the whole family. Visit www.ba.com to find out how you can enjoy the festive cheer in London this Christmas.
