100 Years of US Presidential Visits to the United Kingdom
Woodrow Wilson was the first US president to visit London in an official capacity in December 1918. Nearly a century on, and with President Trump’s visit on the horizon, Culture Trip takes a look at other US presidents who made it to the British isles during their time in office.
Woodrow Wilson
In December 1918, Woodrow Wilson was welcomed to London by streets flooded with revelers, no doubt relieved that World War II was coming to an end. The event, which took place on Boxing Day, can be seen in this remarkable video.
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Uncover my top 3 recommended places from each continent on the map.
CentralAmerica
1. Guatemala
An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.Next
CentralAmerica
2. Belize
A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea. Next
CentralAmerica
3. Mexico
An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different. SouthAmerica
1. Ecuador
A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.Next
SouthAmerica
2. Peru
An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon. Europe
1. Italy
The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.Next
Europe
2. Scotland
Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers. Next
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3. Portugal
A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers. Asia
1. South Korea
Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.Next
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2. Thailand
From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise. Next
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3. Sri Lanka
A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great price Africa
1. Morocco
An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!Next
Africa
2. Egypt
From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt. Next
Dwight D. Eisenhower
In 1959, Dwight D. Eisenhower had an informal visit with Harold Macmillan in Chequers (the official country house of UK prime ministers) and spent time with the royal family in Scotland.
John F. Kennedy
As dramatised in what is arguably the most remarkable episode of Netflix’s The Crown, John F. Kennedy and his wife Jackie had a private visit with Queen Elizabeth II and Macmillan in 1961.
Richard Nixon
In February 1969, Richard Nixon also came on an informal visit to Britain, where he held conversations with former prime minister Harold Wilson and lunched at Buckingham Palace with Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip.
Jimmy Carter
In May 1977, Jimmy Carter attended an economic summit in London, along with heads of state from Canada, France, Italy, Japan and the (then) Federal Republic of Germany to find a solution for the economic crisis that was affecting much of the world at the time.
Ronald Reagan
Ronald Reagan made visits to London in 1982, 1984 and 1988, each time he met with Queen Elizabeth II, and Margaret Thatcher, with whom he worked closely on economic policies.
George H. W. Bush
Reagan’s successor, George H. W. Bush, continued working closely with Thatcher, and visited London in 1989.
Bill Clinton
Bill Clinton and former secretary of state Hillary Clinton also made a trip across the pond to rub elbows with the royals. In 1994, Bill Clinton was awarded an honorary degree from Oxford University.
George W. Bush
Just over a decade after his parents met with the queen, George W. Bush met with Queen Elizabeth II and Tony Blair in July 2001. After the events of 9/11, Bush would conduct four more visits to the UK before the end of his presidency.
Barack Obama
In 2009, Barack and Michelle Obama made their first trip London in an official capacity. Their final official visit in April 2016 marks the last time an American president has visited the UK.
As people gather across the country to protest President Trump’s visit, it will be interesting to see what photos will round out 100 years of presidential visits. Hopefully they amount to more than a comical blimp over the London skyline.
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