European Travel Magazine - Issue 2 - November 2013 Nov 2013 | Page 21

E UROP E AN T RAV E L M AGAZIN E

21

The London Zoo is located in the heart of London
near Primrose Hill and Regents Park. You will be
able to access the zoo by automobile, bus or tube.
It is important to note that the zoo does not allow
for re-entry once you leave the premises, so be
certain to plan for the entire duration of your visit
prior to walking through the entrance.
Have a Plan
The zoo is quite large with a number of exhibits
and animal attractions. In order to fully maximize
your time at the zoo and to ensure everyone in the
family leaves happy, devise a plan at home. Create
a list of must see animals and animal attractions,
the animals everyone would like see and one for
the animals everyone can live without seeing if
you run out of time or the weather becomes unfavorable. Keep in mind, a number of animals are
housed indoors and several indoor exhibits exist
on such occasions.
The Older Kids
Kids between the ages of 11 and 15 are able to
participate in the Junior Keeper For A Day program.
The children will spend 3 ½ hours in the morning
on a supervised excursion of a behind-the-scenes
look into the life of a zookeeper and to be able
to meet the animals up close. They will feed the
animals, learn about the animals and learn exactly
what it takes to care for such animals.
Logistics
Children often have loads of energy in the morning and they begin to lose momentum come the
afternoon. Consider the logistics of your adventure
to accommodate the energy levels of your children
as a way to maximize the enjoyment of your time
at the zoo. Start at the far end of the zoo in the
morning and work your way to the front as the
day progresses. Once the children are sufficiently
exhausted, you will be near the exit which will
help to preserve the cherished memories of the
day rather than to struggle to get your children
to the exit while passing all of the animal exhibits
once again.
Save Money
The zoo has a tiered payment scale based on age
and time of year. It is far more affordable to visit
the zoo during off-peak season rather than during
peak season. You will receive a discount by booking
online and if you have a membership for those who
intend to visit frequently. Do not forget that one
adult enters for free with any child registered in
the Junior Keeper program. You might also consider
bringing your own snacks; however, be certain to
check the food policies on the website prior to your
departure to ensure the policy has not changed.