The winner of London’s Official Guest of Honour international search today began her fortnight’s trip to the city. US citizen, Adaeze Uyanwah, (24)  will meet some of the city’s most famous residents and visit a number of top tourist attractions.

US citizen Adaeze Uyanwah (24)  who is visiting the city as London's Guest of Honour with Tim Henman at Wimbledon today

US citizen Adaeze Uyanwah (24) who is visiting the city as London’s Guest of Honour with Tim Henman at Wimbledon today Image by David Parry/PA Wire

Among the treats on offer today for the Californian from Palmdale was a VIP tour of the All England Tennis Club in Wimbledon with former tennis star Tim Henman.

US citizen Adaeze Uyanwah  and Tim Henman pose in the Wimbledon trophy room today

US citizen Adaeze Uyanwah and Tim Henman pose beside the Wimbledon trophy today Image by David Parry/PA Wire

Over the next two weeks, Adaeze will visit some of London’s famous attractions taking in the vibrancy and culture of the city including a private tour at the Science Museum with Professor Stephen Hawking, afternoon tea at Lord’s Cricket Ground with actor Jim Carter (who plays Downton Abbey’s butler, Carson), a behind the scenes tour of the Houses of Parliament with Speaker of the House of Commons, John Bercow MP, and the opening of Tower Bridge.

Over 10,000 people from around the world entered the competition.  They were asked to submit a short film or image, and in 70 words describe their perfect day in London.

Adaeze said: “First, I’d wake up at Buckingham Palace if possible. Then I’d go for a full English breakfast at a traditional English pub. I’d then take a tour of Parliament and see a show in the West End. I’d end the day on the London Eye, overlooking the city. There are so many more things I’d love to do in my favourite city!”

While figures post Olympics in 2013 hit record levels with 16.8 million international visitors, London is expected to show even more impressive figures for last year. International travellers were recorded at 13.5 million trips to the city up to the end of September – marking a 6% jump over the previous period.