The British Museum

Thirty -nine minute train ride with two stops and BINGO, we're in Londinium (the name of the settlement used by Romans in 43 A.D. for what's now known as London). Whilst sussing out the tube system was never my strong suit, I simply rely on my travel companions to get me around the underground of London. However,  there is a stop dedicated to the British Museum itself, so keep your eyes open if you're headed that way.

The British museum was established in 1753 (England has a museum before the US has a country!) and has a collection of over 8 million permanent works! It is among the largest and most comprehensive collections of the world containing something from all over the globe. If you're going, plan to spend a few hours there. Don't worry, there plenty of cafes and restaurants to choose from during your visit so you won't starve. Entry to the British museum is free and allows you to access over hundreds of displays. Admission to certain special displays applies.

Step back into time with Ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome. See a mummy or two in the Afterlife display.

(I made myself a Sphinx)

Gaze upon the many Greek statues each with a different story. View the beauty of Asia in Chinese jade or perhaps discover the culture of the Buddha. (I must admit I was a  wee bit disappointed I didn't see any Terracotta soldiers).

If Buddha isn't your thing, travel to the ancient civilizations of the Middle East to learn what makes them tick. I skipped the Americas exhibit, because ...well I've had enough of that during my school years, but if that sort of thing interests you; step in and learn all about the Native Americans and how Spain and Britain fought over gold in Mexico and the US.

Finally, since you are in the British museum, check out the history of the sword/weaponry or Medieval Europe. Learn how Romans invaded the island through what was called Roman Britain. (TIP: don't look for Merlin or King Arthur. You won't find them here. Sad, but true).

Wander through the King's Library collection at the museum...wall to wall books running all the way up the ceilings!  This display was donated by King George IV and was the collection of King George III. (Apparently, his son didn't like to read....)

Whether you're looking for the most famous chess set in the world, want to see a colossal figure from the lost civilization of Easter Island, have a look at samurai armor or African art, or decipher hieroglyphs using the Rosetta stone; check out the British museum. It's sure to be a day of fun and adventure!

Coming soon to the museum are the Vikings...BE WARE!