Two millennia ago, London was a major settlement founded by the Romans, who called it Londinium. As a city, it has only gained traction since. Today, London is the capital of England and the United Kingdom, the largest metropolitan area in the United Kingdom, and the largest urban zone in the European Union. London is also a leading global city, with strong commerce, education and healthcare sectors. Even more, London possesses strength in the arts, entertainment, fashion, and tourism – it has the most international visitors of any city in the world.
If you want to get the most out of a stay in the United Kingdom, London is your city.
London Stock Exchange
London is the world’s largest financial centre (alongside New York), and has the largest city GDP in Europe. More than 100 of Europe’s 500 largest companies have headquarters in London. It’s also home to the London Stock Exchange, located in the City of London (the historic core of Greater London, which holds city status).
The London Stock Exchange is the fourth-largest stock exchange in the world, and the largest in Europe. It was founded in 1801 and it’s currently situated in Paternoster Square, close to St Paul’s Cathedral. The Exchange has four core areas: equity markets, trading services, information services, and derivatives.
Conferences and hotels
London is an international networking hub and global business centre, and thus offers a wealth of unique and interesting venues that host everything from conferences to banquets to weddings. The Banqueting House in Westminster is one example. Dali Universe, London’s most versatile arts and exhibition centre, is another. Then there’s the Kensington Roof Gardens, which offers a flexible event space and a top class restaurant and night club, all while overlooking the dazzling London skyline.
Visitors to London won’t be wanting for five-star hotels either. The newest luxury hotel, The Montcalm, sits at the top of Park Lane in the heart of the capital. The luxury suites in the Montcalm are packed with opulent extras, and the Montcalm Wellness Centre is well equipped with state-of-the-art spa, health treatment rooms, and a custom whirlpool. Other London classic luxury hotels, like Egerton House, Savoy London, and The Landmark, are also up to snuff.
Climate
The population of London, as of May 11, 2011, is 7,771,139. The climate in London could accurately be describes as: moderate. Like much of the British Isles, the city rarely sees extremely high or low temperatures. The summers in London are generally warm, and the winters are chilly, but rarely below freezing. Snow is relatively uncommon, but can usually be seen a few times a year.
Culture
Numerous museums, galleries, libraries, and sporting events call London home. Included among the city’s many cultural institutions is the British Museum, the National Gallery, the British Library, the tennis tournament Wimbledon, and 40 theatres. And in 2012, London will become the first city to host the Summer Olympic Games three times.
