Program 461: Dracula's Romania; Discriminating London Guide; Travel Kindnesses

Find out about the ruthless 15^th-century prince behind the Dracula legend, a major source of tourism to Romania today. Then get introduced to some of London's more sophisticated establishments, where you can dine and dress like a real gentleman or lady. And enjoy a taste of Diwali, India's "festival of lights" — plus hear from other listeners about unforgettable people they've met in their travels.

• Travel writer Leif Pettersen, author of "Backpacking with Dracula"  (self-published)
• James Sherwood, author of "James Sherwood's Discriminating Guide to London" (Thames and Hudson)
• Meera Subramanian, author of "A River Runs Again" (Public Affairs Books)

• Leif Pettersen's website includes a tongue-in-cheek trailer for his book, "Backpacking with Dracula." Leif also posts to Facebook.
• Encyclopaedia Britannica discusses the life of Vlad III Dracula, including a portrait of him.
• Bran Castle is one of the most popular tourist sites in Romania.
• James Sherwood is the author of "James Sherwood's Discriminating Guide to London."  It's based on the original 1970s edition authored by hotel and shipping magnate James B. Sherwood (no relation), who writes the forward to the new edition of the guide. The elder Mr. Sherwood also restored the Orient Express luxury train. 
• The younger James Sherwood blogs about London as "Letters from Bloomsbury Square" on his website, contributes articles to The Rake, and has also written "The Perfect Gentleman: The Pursuit of Timeless Elegance and Style in London" and "Savile Row, the Masters of British Bespoke."
• Jermyn Street in London's West End is known for its many high-end shops.  Other popular venues for traditional high fashion outfitters are Burlington Arcade, Savile Row, and St. James Street.
• Menu, dress code, and photos of the Ritz Hotel Champagne Terrance in London.
• The Andrew Edmunds restaurant is a discreet, "Old Soho" dining establishment in London. Dinner reservations are taken one week in advance.
• Simpson's in the Strand is known for its Sunday roast. Rules at Covent Garden is the oldest restaurant in London.