[fanman]

Hey everyone, I'm hoping to get some advice or tips from people who have travelled to the London area or especially anyone who lives there or elsewhere in the UK. A friend of mine will be travelling there in August, from Japan for a vacation. She hasn't planned out all the details of her trip yet but I think she'll be staying mostly in London and area.

So if any CPers can answer any of these questions, or have any tips or ideas about anything related it would be hugely appreciated!

-She is wondering about the London Eye (ferris wheel?), if it is usually very busy in August or worth it to check out. Also if it's possible to get tickets in advance and if so, how and where?

-Any suggestions for nice restaurants or cafes. She would also love to try a good British pub, any recommendations?

-Is there a good place to get cheap train tickets, or some kind of deal that visitors can get?

-She'd also like to check out a bit of the countryside, anyone know any good spots? (Not too far from London is ideal, but any suggestions are welcomed.)

-Any good sight-seeing spots or events coming up during that time that might be interesting?

Thanks again for any ideas or info you have, much appreciated.