Thinking of London for your vacation? With the Canadian dollar gaining strength now is the time to go. But check these money saving sites and tips first.

Airfare:

Check Air Canada for specials from Toronto. Remember you can take a morning flight if you don’t want to waste a day recovering from an overnight flight. If you want to freshen up upon arrival, book the lounge at Heathrow for a shower and breakfast to start your day.

Accommodations:

Start at Budgetstayuk.com for a comprehensive list of university rooms available during school breaks – bonus- includes budget options during school term too.Wotif.com great for last minute deals, though you have to scroll a bit to pick out the best prices. Laterooms.com works like Hotwire.com but with more options in central London.Splurge with last minute specials booked through the hotel at The Athenaeum (a Trip Advisor favorite) or The Park Plaza Westminster Bridge.

Transportation:

London transport is pricey but buying the Oyster card will help keep costs down on tube and bus travel. If you’re here for more than a few days consider bringing or renting a bicycle.

Entertainment:

Art and museum lovers are in luck here. Most London galleries are free all the time with additional fees for special exhibits in the larger venues only. Best bets include the Tate Modern, Saatchi Gallery, Serpentine Gallery, White Cube and  the Photographers Gallery. Check London Time Out Magazine for comprehensive listings and reliable reviews.

Food:

This one is tricky but pubs offer reasonable meals – just remember that dinner is served between 6 and 9 pm only. Don’t forget the department stores such as Harrods and Selfridges. The latter has a sushi bar set on a conveyor belt so you can pick what you want as it rolls by.On warm afternoons head to Camden Locks to pick up an array of international foods to enjoy on the outdoor sawed off motorcycle seats facing the canal.

Shopping:

Hit a Primark – they’re everywhere!