Reviews by Chapps

Whole Foods Market (Organic Food Shop)
28 May 2008

Well, I'm a Whole Foods addict in Los Angeles, so my review's a sure thing. The only killer for us Americans is the exchange rate ... but it was worth it. Three whole floors of glorious food, flowers, and more. And for the busy Londoners, there are the usual prepared meals, which are all made from the veggies that they sell to customers. All around, just plain wonderful. Nice to see the old Barkers building put to such good use.

Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew (Park / Tourist Attraction)
28 May 2008

You've seen enough of London, and you're choking in car exhaust... what do you do? Take the train out to Kew, of course. It'll invigorate even the most jaded soul, particularly if you take a picnic lunch and good book and while away the hours in a quiet corner. The new tree-tops walkway is absolutely awesome, if only for the view.

I could go on for hours, but others can get into the details. Here's a tip: leave in the early afternoon and walk along the Thames walking/cycling path all the way down to Richmond - then sit down in a pub and watch the river life flow by. Not to be missed.

Cabinet War Rooms (Museum)
28 May 2008

My father and I had a private tour of this bunker facility in the early 80's, when I was living in London. At the time, there were no walls and windows to prevent the visitor from moving around, because it was officially not open to the public.

Even with the walls, this is a tremendously fascinating snapshot in time - at the exact moment the Allies won WWII. Unfortunately, you do get scooted around too quickly, but every parent should take their children there to expose them to a moment in history when the West almost didn't win a pivotal war. Well worth the visit.

Tea Palace (Cafe)
28 May 2008

Having lived in London previously and done the whole 'high tea' thing, I was dreading twee cakes, stiff service and droolingly dusty tea.

Tea Palace nicely invigorates the whole concept - dresses it down, while keeping it somewhat formal. The tea is the thing, here - and you'll be hard pressed to select among the oodles of varieties. I personally loved the Earl Grey St. Clemens and brought home (to Los Angeles) a large tin so I could continue the experience. Nice finger sandwiches, unhealthy clotted cream, scrumptious jam and crumpets (hate cakes, so I'll leave that review to others).

Give it a go.