Concierge Corner: Paul Mace

Deputy Head Concierge, The May Fair Hotel, London

They can take several new tours, such as speedboat rides with Flying Fish Tours to Canary Wharf and back, or a Duck Tour in a 1940s amphibious army vehicle that goes into the Thames. London Walks are fantastic, led by local professional tour guides who take you places you don’t normally see. They have pub walks, theater walks, Jack the Ripper Walks — and cost just $10.

London is so expensive for Americans. Any suggestions to mitigate the costs?

Stay away from touristy spots, and go a bit into suburban areas. For shopping, we send people to Shepherds Market, a little square off the touristy track. There are also fantastic shops on Oxford Street. You can get some good deals at Top Shop, and Primark is a huge clothing store with steep discounts. I always advise our guests to barter. That won’t work in the big chain stores, but in small privately owned boutiques, such as those on Carnaby Street, it may save you some money. If you are flexible, you can go to the theater for half-price by buying last-minute tickets in Leicester Square. Just don’t come to London during school holidays because your chances of finding good deals decrease.

Where are some good places to eat and drink?

Right here at the Mayfair Bar! It’s known as the best hotel bar in London. The Lanesborough Hotel has a beautiful tearoom that looks like an atrium, bathed in natural light. For English food, Rules is London’s oldest restaurant. It specializes in game. And Simpson’s at the Savoy is open, even though the hotel is being renovated. It’s famous for porterhouse. Pubs are a dying trend, being replaced by wine bars. But there is still a good pub scene along the river, try the Mayflower and the Anchor.