By Jane Coloccia

One of the great things about London is the fact that the lines seem to blur…you can go shopping and sightseeing at the same time because many of London 's greatest attractions are its stores and many stores are in the great neighborhoods you will want to visit. Plus, you can combine dining and shopping because many of the department stores are also home to well-known eateries. Got that?

No trip to London is complete without a stop in Harrods in Knightsbridge, the most well-known store in London and the source for those green vinyl Harrods shopping bags you've seen back home. Harrods offers something for everyone, and is a great place for “classy” souvenir shopping. You need not spend a fortune in Harrods…you can bring home an elegant Harrods china teacup, a teddy bear, or even a selection of English teas or candies. Also plan to stop in the Food Hall…each of the counters has mouthwatering delicacies from meats to fish to sweets, and you can sit on a stool, get a nice lunch or snack, and chat with your neighbor or just people-watch. It's a wonderful experience that can only be had here. Hotels near to Harrods include the Best Western Phoenix and the Gallery Hotel.

If you're mad for plaid, London is the home to that very famous black, tan, and red pattern which signifies the Burberry brand. It's been close to 150 years since a 21-year-old lad named Thomas Burberry began this brand that has become a fashion icon. The flagship store is located on New Bond Street where the home to the once stodgy trench coat with the plaid lining has now transformed itself into a fashion hotspot where plaid graces everything from shoes and shirts to belts and bikinis. With just one stop on Bond Street you will realize that this is the place where all the designers “hang out” and you'll pretty much find every designer name from Armani to Vuitton. If you want to stay in the heart of Bond Street shopping, consider the Millenium Mayfair which is just a five-minute walk away.

London seems to be famous for department stores that cater to your every need from home furnishings to clothing and food and wine. Another “must-see” on your shopping escapade is Fortnum & Mason in Piccadilly (the Flemings Mayfair is here) that dates back to the early 1700s and maintains a very regal air. Many stop in for afternoon tea, and their Food Hall also rivals that of Harrods.

If you've got the kids in tow, you can keep the little ones occupied with a stop in Hamleys, which bills itself as the “finest toyshop in the world” and has a great child-like ambiance of fun and games. Imagine seven floors overflowing with more than 40,000 toys and games…you and the kids will most definitely be overwhelmed.