I'm planning a trip to London the second week in January, 2002. Is the London Eye open this time of year? What will be closed in January, in terms of attractions? Also, I am looking at staying at the Thistle Victoria - does anyone have any comment on this hotel? Thanks everyone for your help. <BR> <BR>Martha <BR>

Another question - will I need to purchase tickets to get into the Eye in advance? Or in January, would I be able to just go there and get on? <BR> <BR>Thanks again, <BR>Martha <BR>

Yes it it the coolest thing I have ever done.cost 8.00pounds I went over to the office the day before and got a ticket, then you need to get there 1/2 before your time and wait in line. <BR>see the pictures on. <BR>www.igougo.com <BR>look for guide name Kathy <BR>I have 25 journals on that website with tons of pictures.

We just got back from London today. (Boo hoo!) The Thistle Victoria a lovely hotel just around the corner from Victoria station and the underground. Buckinham Palace is a short walk away. Lots of restaurants in the area and an internet cafe close by, too! (Just in case you suffer from Fodor Forum withdrawal. They charge $3 for 1 hour. You get a private password and you don't have to use the time all at once. This was actually our main way of communicating with our daughter while we were away from home.) The hotel concierge can get you tickets to the London Eye. Saves you making two trips over there. Take the Tube to Westminster and walk across the bridge. You do have to exchange the voucher but we didn't have to wait in line to do so. Have a wonderful time. And don't miss the Tower of London. <BR>Mrs. Ron

Nothing in London will be closed in January, although a few things may have shorter opening hours. <BR> <BR>If you are planning on heading further afield, out into the countryside, then some castles and stately homes will be closed at that time of year. The major tourist attractions are all-year-round though, so you shouldn't have any problem.

Does the Thistle Victoria have a web site or email address?

Parden my ignorance, but what is the Longon Eye? <BR>Regrds <BR>Art <BR>

Thanks everyone for the help. Art - the London Eye, which opened in 2000, is like a giant ferris wheel. It has gondolas rather than open seats and is located on the Thames. It's supposed to offer spectacular views of London and was rated 2nd best attraction in London by the Travel Channel's recent show - London's Top Ten. I can't wait to get there. <BR>Martha <BR>