If you're lucky enough to be in London during the summer months, when the Queen takes her annual summer trip to Scotland, make best efforts to get tickets for a tour of Buckingham Palace. Since 1837, the Palace has served as the official London residence of the reigning monarch (today, Her Majesty the Queen along with husband Prince Philip), but it also serves as offices for the monarchy and an impressive location for state ceremonies and entertaining. Over 50,000 people visit annually as invited guests for meals, receptions and Royal Garden Parties. Approximately 450 people are employed on site.

If you're going to be in on vacation in London in 2006, the Queen's 80th birthday will be celebrated at the Palace with a special exhibit of her dresses and jewelry that is included as part of the tour. There are, not coincidentally, eighty gowns on display - with some dating back to the 1940s. Visitors will also be able to see the officially-commissioned 80th birthday portrait of the Queen by Australian/British entertainer and artist Rolf Harris.

There are nineteen ornate state rooms at the Palace which are opened to the public from the end of July through the end of September (dates vary by year, check www.royal.gov.uk for specifics). Guests are also allowed to view the famous and very secret gardens and lake hidden within the Palace walls. To allow as many people as possible to visit, tickets are issued for times every fifteen minutes throughout the summer days from 9:45 AM to 3:45 PM.

The 14.00 entrance fee will also provide you with an audio tour in one of six different languages, and there are discounts available for seniors, children and families. There is a ticket office at the Visitors Entrance (Buckingham Palace Road), or you can book in advance online at www.the-royal-collection.com.