London is a favorite weekend destination for many of us around the world. Especially when it comes to shopping. Also, there are many international and wonderful restaurants throughout the city, and I believe there are an increasing number of hotels with great design and service. It is making the choices that is difficult in this city. Because of its widespread map and various destinations you either have to pick a spot and hang out in that particular area, or come to terms with the fact that you will spend a few minutes and pounds in a taxi (or the subway).
When it comes to shopping, there are several alternatives. Oxford Street and the surrounding areas is difficult to avoid, but I also think it is a great idea to stroll around in Soho, Mayfair, Hoxton and the Shoreditch area (the latter includes a wonderful All Saints and Aesop store). Kings Cross is also picking up. Kensington is wonderful but pricy, but stroll down Sloane Street and end up in King´s Road, and the prices improves. The denim department in Selfridges is fantastic. There are over 11 000 jeans to choose from here, in addition to leather pants, leather jackets and basic clothing from Acne, Zadig et Voltaire, Rag & Bone, Current/Elliot, J Brand, BLK DNM and so on. I have also heard great things about their shoe department. A stop at Harrods International Designer department (especially the basic division) and the Fashion Lab is also a must. Here you will find a great selection of Alexander Wang, Helmut Lang, Rag & Bone, Current Elliot, Acne and many, many more!
Two great hotels in London are the Soho and Boundary. The restaurants I prefer are Nobu, The Ledbury, Boundary, Hakkasan and Gauthier.