London

The beta version is just a few months old, but it's already reshaping how many cyclists travel. Covering more than 200 US cities — and soon to be rolled out internationally — Google Biking maps are based on a mash-up of data.

Originally, if you gave someone "six of the best", you punished them by hitting them, usually on their bottom with a long, thin stick. Today, the expression has a much more positive meaning, especially when it comes to our travel tips.

Taking time out for a treat is essential in these difficult times. And it needn't cost a lot, even in London. The shop-until-you-drop city has lots of affordable spas, and it's got the latest craze: Garra rufa fish that nibble your tired feet.

If you passed through Terminal 5 in Heathrow Airport late last summer, you might have seen a man sitting at a desk in the departures area. He wasn't looking for boarding passes. He was writing a book. The result is titled A Week at the Airport.

George Frideric Handel lived at 23 Brook Street in London for 36 years. In 1968, Jimi Hendrix moved into in a flat there. To commemorate the 40th anniversary of the rock star's death, his Brook Street flat will be open for 12 days in September.

"Grace Kelly: Style Icon" at the V&A is arranged in three sections, tracing her evolution from Hollywood star to real-life princess. The outfits on show include the black chiffon dress designed for the Alfred Hitchcock classic Rear Window.

Travel
14. Active London (excerpt; pp. 28–33)

Society
7. Interview with Karen Kenny (see pp. 22–25)