ESCAPES London Sparkles with Holiday Shine

By Louise B. Hafesh

The countdown begins. Christmas 2022 will soon be here – that most wonderful time of the year. And while typically a joyous occasion, getting into the spirit can often take its toll as the frenzied pace quickens, shopping lists get longer, social commitments escalate and the trappings of entertaining at home become increasingly taxing. Add the long period of lockdowns, heart-breaking losses and pandemic isolation we’ve just come through, and this may just be the year to take a break from it all.

Why not treat yourself to a memorable holiday present, a much-overdue sanity fix? Pack your bags, grab that special someone and set course to someplace rich in history, romance and fun, where homespun pleasures will lift your spirits, tickle your fancies and make your Yuletide once again merry and bright.

London is calling.

Christmas arrives early in London, which makes it an ideal pre-holiday destination. Around Nov. 5, when evenings get darker and nights longer, colorful fireworks light up the skies for Guy Forks Night, the unofficial kickoff. Bonfires, music, fun events and festive cheer take over the capital as it gets set to usher in other memorable English traditions.

For your great escape, you’ll want to choose a holiday home away from home, complete with all the creature comforts and centrally situated near iconic sights, unmissable attractions and events. This past summer, while on a trip to London, my husband and I chanced upon just such a find. The Athenaeum Hotel and Residences (www.athenaeumhotel.com) is that and more. A calming sanctuary in the heart of the bustling city, newly refurbished, spacious rooms and suites overlook lush Green Park or lively Mayfair. Either choice boasts the most modern in-room technology while retaining warm, traditional Brit charm. Super comfy Hypnos mattresses (the Queen’s favorite) and downy comforters guarantee a luxurious night’s sleep, and a welcoming full English breakfast (included in most packages) helps you leisurely and lavishly ease into the day.

Once out and about, Knightsbridge and iconic Harrods, Shepherds Market’s quaint pubs and boutiques and Buckingham Palace are all within striking distance. So too, The Hop on Hop off Big Bus (www.bigbustours.com). A great way to get around and see the city at your own pace, each ticket to ride includes a relaxing bonus cruise along the Thames River.

No place does the holidays quite like London. Streets, shops and Christmas trees sparkle with dazzling light displays at every turn. A must-see in the bling department, Christmas Lights London By Night led by an expert guide, includes key sites like the London Eye, Tower of London and Tower Bridge. A magical wonderland also reigns supreme. Ice-skating rinks, Christmas carol concerts and Westminster Abbey’s midnight mass celebration top the list, not to mention the wizarding world of Hogwarts In The Snow

– The Making of Harry Potter. Through Jan. 15, 2023, this Warner Bros. tour transforms iconic film sets like Diagon Alley and the Great Hall into shimmering winter enchantment. For an extensive list of other seasonal offerings that cater to every taste and pocketbook, including Christmas markets and fairs, visit www.visitlondon.com. Feasting in merry old England is a passion at any time, but never more so than during the holidays. At least once during your stay, secure a table at Le Gavroche, the legendary eatery. Prepare yourself for a gastronomic experience encompassing tasteful decor, classic works of art, impeccable table settings and a uniquely modern take on superb French cooking. If you are

wise, reserve from the states as we did. One of London’s most respected restaurants, Le Gavroche books out well in advance.

It stands to reason that any trip to the UK without partaking in at least one grand afternoon tea is out of the question. No need to go further than your home base at 116 at the Athenaeum, though. After a full day of shopping and sightseeing, it’s the perfect place to unwind, delight in each other’s company and treat yourselves to a quintessentially British experience. I can’t say enough about the service. Suffice to add it is stellar; the setting comfortable and laid back. For £45, you can feast on a picture-perfect array of sweet and savory treats with flavors of spiced gingerbread and clementine and chocolate (naturally) – vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options, too. There’s even a Bottomless upgrade of 90 minutes of free-flowing Prosecco. That’s what I call getting into the holiday spirit at its best – cheers!

Boxing Day (British Black Friday) falls the day after Christmas. If you are still in town, it’s a prime opportunity to snare some shopping finds. Time permitting, you might also consider toasting the New Year in the country where it officially begins – England (Meridian Line, Greenwich) at Trafalgar Square. All dressed up for the holidays, it’s one hot destination where thousands gather for the countdown. Another, the London Eye, one of the world’s tallest observation wheels, puts on a spectacular laser show. As with other world-renowned destinations, the city’s skyline will be ablaze with an unbelievable firework extravaganza – hip, hip, hooray!

Louise B. Hafesh is an award-winning artist and freelance writer who lives with her husband in Bergen County. She can be reached at www. louisebhafesh.com. Ben Pipe Photography