1998 was a record year for London tourism, with more than 29 million people visiting. The city is gearing up for the year 2000 with an advertising and public relations campaign dubbed London: The Millennium City, and a restoration and renovation program valued at UK 6 billion. An additional 22,000 hotel rooms will be made available in the coming months, and dozens of millennium events are scheduled throughout the city, especially in Greenwich, where the Millennium Dome is nearing completion. The London tourism board expects these initiatives to boost tourism to unprecedented levels, with more than 31 million people visiting in 2000.

In 1998, Newsweek proclaimed London "the coolest city on the planet." Its dynamic dining, arts, fashion, and nightlife scenes are booming and show no signs of slowing down.

Fodor's upclose London is the perfect companion for independent travelers who want a rich experience at a great price. It uncovers unique places to eat and drink don't cost a fortune. Written in a lively, sometimes irreverent voice, this handy guide is fun to read and a godsend to use. It shares little-known facts about top sights like the Westminster Abbey and points visitors to cool, lesser-known spots that are definitely worth a visit.

This guide keeps up with London's non-stop developments and points readers to the hottest spots of the moment, as well as the classic choices. The book has grown by 32 pages to add even more affordable options all over the city -- more sights, hotels, restaurants, pubs, clubs, shops, and outdoor activities! Plus, it features a lively re-telling of London's history.