Dropping into the local pub for a pint of real ale or bitter is the best way to soak up the character of the different villages that make up London. You'll hear local accents and slang and see firsthand how far removed upper-crust Kensington is from blue-collar Wapping. Catch the local gossip or football talk -- and, of course, enjoy some of the finest ales, stouts, ciders, and malt whiskies in the world.

Drinks à la America--Everybody's heard of the Hard Rock Cafe and Planet Hollywood, but the real news coming out of London is the sudden opening of many American-themed bars. We've picked out the two best spots. Navajo Joe, 34 King St., WC2 (tel. 020/7240-4008), offers the largest tequila selection outside of Mexico, plus Southwestern cuisine that is already starting to win some restaurant awards. For the atmosphere of a different part of the American south, head for Old Orleans, corner of Wellington and Tavistock streets, WC2 (tel. 020/7497-2433), with its colorful cocktail bar and rich decor from the old American South. The restaurant features Creole cuisine. Both bars are reached by taking the Tube to Covent Garden.