American Journeywoman Claudia Eastman is a Film and television Location Manager based in Hollywood, California. She's also an older adventuress who loves to travel solo and she does it very well. Claudia loves London at Christmas time so much it's hard to get her to go anyplace else. She writes...

Since I've been to London more often than the average Journeywoman I thought it would be helpful to share the following advice with other members of the JW Network. These are tidbits that I've gleaned just by going out and about -- experiencing and experimenting. It's definitely not hard to have fun in London. Enjoy, everybody!

Experience has taught me that if you chose to arrive on Christmas day know in advance that the London Underground and bus system are shut down. Taxis are few and far between and pricey as well. The Heathrow Express train runs but on a limited schedule and once you get to Paddington Train Station your only options are a rogue cabbie or to walk to your hotel. Of course, if you have friends in London have them pick you up and render this tip a mute point.

Exchange some money at the airport. American Express has a counter in Terminal Three. Saves time and you can buy a cup of coffee, a copy of Time Out (detailing what's on in the city), pay for transportation into London and have money for your first night on the town.

Begin your sightseeing days early. It starts getting dark around 4pm so plan your outings and excursions accordingly.

Once settled find the nearest Underground Station and purchase a Travel Card. It's the best investment you'll make during your stay. Travel off peak hours and your costs are less. The card provides unlimited rides on the Tube and on buses as well as an occasional discount. I got a discount from the City Cruise line for a Thames cruise with the card. Pick up a free Tube Map for easy reference -- the card for zones 1 & 2 usually covers all that you'll want to see. Both Tube and buses are easy to use. Just make a mental note that the District and Circle tube lines seem to have the most delays. Find out about the new Oyster Card and everything else you need to know about the underground at: tube.tfl.gov.uk/

Getting cash from ATM's is the best and easiest way to get money. I use only bank ATM's such as Barclays. (Note: your pincode can only be 4 digits). I take one credit card, one debit card and some traveler's checks as back up. I use the credit card for lodging and large gift purchases thus assuring a record of my major expenses. I use cash for food and drink, postcards, postage, a phone card, newspapers and knick knacks.

Please remember in London traffic flows the opposite way from what you may be used to. Keep this in mind when waiting to cross a street. Out of habit you'll look the wrong way and might not live to see another day. At intersections look down at your feet and you'll see bold letters which say: LOOK RIGHT or LOOK LEFT. Pay attention and cross the streets safely.