East London ?becoming popular with tourists?

East London is now the rising scene popular with tourists, it has emerged.

Overtaking the West End as a magnet for both Londoners and visitors alike, the eastern region of city is fast rising as an alternative to the overpriced, z-list celebrity-enthused nightlife associated with the West End's nightlife, commented Steve Fallon, author of the Lonely Planet's new city guidebook.

The Docklands have emerged as a key financial hub, the 02 Arena is now drawing the world's biggest music artists and clubs and bars to the east of the capital are now thriving on a cool reputation, Mr Fallon argued.

London as a whole has undergone a progressive revolution in terms of food, liberal drinking laws, the smoking ban, music and nightlife, with the east leading the way, he suggested.

The introduction of the congestion charge in the City is also cited as a positive development, making the capital a better place to live, according to the author.

"As the British capital gears up for the olympics being held here in 2012, there's everything to play for and the city has rarely felt so exciting and full of reasons to visit," Mr Fallon said.

An inclusive definition of culture representing the breadth of London and the UK is intended to be associated with the build-up and aftermath of the London Games, according to the 2012 Olympics website.

Destinations News posted on 22/02/2008 08:41:47