Your Weekend Getaway in ... London!

Sometimes we need an escape without breaking the bank. If you're a Londoner, here's a new, frugal way to look at your digs. If you're outside of the U.K., while London isn't the cheapest to shop and such, a flight from America's east coast will cost as much as a trip to California. So if  you're in the town of Sherlock Holmes and Margaret Thatcher's memory (or protests thereof), here are some new-found Parlour favorites that may quench the adventurer in you.WHERE TO STAY: If you're feeling quirky, the Cuban and Mexican inspired Church Street Hotel will be more than interesting. Originally a bed and breakfast, the owners redecorated the space with Mexican tiles, Spanish-American religious art and brightly colored furniture. Not to mention, a few extra incentives like a cigar box filled with Green and Black’s chocolate, a complimentary jar of hot sauce and home-made organic breakfasts (£90/night for a single bedroom to £155/night for a deluxe king suite).If trendy traditional is you, try the Hoxton Hotel, a hip Shoreditch spot with modern design. Like a swanky cabin in the city, the hotel allows guest to snuggle up near their open fire place, decorated with exposed brickwood and a faux moose head. Other extras include a complimentary Pret-A-Manger breakfast delivered to your door, fresh milk and water in the mini-fridge, flatscreen TVs and wi-fi (£79/night to  £159/night).WHERE TO EAT: Start off with burgers and lobster, that's right, both. For a flat rate of £20 at Burger and Lobster, Parlouristas can eat two of the best foods known to woman kind. For more culinary adventure, check out Yauatcha (prices range from £60) for their mix of innovative Cantonese food, a cocktail bar, and celebrity sightings it's sure to get your adrenaline up for the next phase.WHAT TO DO: Soar around the heavens by booking a hot-air balloon ride at various locations throughout the country with Virgin Balloon Flights (fly solo for £199, with a friend for £229 or get a romance gift package with your bee's knees for £239). Either way you'll be hearing three little words you will absolutely learn to love: champagne chocolate truffles. If you want something closer to the ground, Revolution Karting will have you rolling. Race at over 50 mph on 650 metres of track up to 16 laps! Your heart will leap as you come across tight turns and race to the finish line. You can race individually or go with friends. Either way, it's a guaranteed good olde (see what we did there with the olde English?) adrenaline rush (£25 per person, exclusive events for 10-30 drivers - £65 per person). Let ye olde racing begin!