London vs New York: Which is the best 2021 travel destination?

When you are considering your holiday for this year, there are two of the most famous cities in the world competing for your tourism: the Big Smoke vs the Big Apple; UK vs USA; of course, we are talking about London vs New York.

So, between these two cultural and vibrant cities, which one is better? Here, we will pit them against each other to find out which is the best 2021 travel destination.

The Tube vs the Subway

When in New York City, all fares, no matter where you go, are priced at $2.75 with a MetroCard or a contactless card. In London, fare pricing is a little more confusing, and more expensive, as the travel routes are split up into zones.

However, if you use an Oyster card or a contactless card for your travel on the London Tube, you can take advantage of pay as you go caps, or alternatively purchase a Travelcard for the day, which can keep the costs down. 

Winner: New York

Natural History Museum vs Museum of Natural History

Both the Natural History Museum in London and the Museum of Natural History in New York are what they say on the tin. These museums have equally fascinating exhibits on natural history for you to explore.

However, the deciding factor yet again is the cost. The Natural History Museum has free entry, and you only need to pay for access to special exhibitions. The entry fee for the Museum of Natural History, in comparison, will set you back a bit.

Winner: London

West End vs Broadway

When it comes to standards of English-speaking theatre across the world, little compares to the West End and Broadway. Though London’s theatre district is more historic, Broadway is definitely more iconic.

If you are a musical fan, perhaps Broadway is the better choice for you. However, for a mix of musicals and historic plays, you might veer towards the West End. After all, London is also home to Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, even though that particular venue isn’t in the West End.

Winner: It’s a tie. There are world-famous shows in both cities. It depends on your taste in theatre.

Harrods vs Bloomingdale’s

Bloomingdale’s is often hailed as the Harrods of New York City. This might simply be because Harrods arrived first, as it was founded by Charles Henry Harrod in 1824. It even debuted England’s first escalator in 1898. Last year, Harrods was still outperforming its US counterpart.

Winner: London

Tower Bridge vs Brooklyn Bridge  

Last but not least we have Tower Bridge, connecting the City of London to Southwark bank over the Thames, and Brooklyn Bridge, connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn over the East River. This really is the competition of stone vs steel.

However, stone takes the crown, as Tower Bridge combines history with all of the new modern conveniences. Tower Bridge has a rich history with its neighbour, the Tower of London. Their locations also make them very accessible, as they are both within easy walking distance from city-centre hotels like Dorsett Hotel, City.

Winner: London

Overall, it really does depend on what you want out of your holiday. For a mix of historical buildings and modern skyscrapers, choose London as your travel destination in 2021.

Written by Krissy Georgiadis

Law graduate and wanderlust sufferer. I like rum and beaches.