TEL: +44 (0) 208 574 0868About London
London is one of the most vibrant and culturally diverse cities in the world, a natural starting point for any journey to the UK. The city is visited by 15 million people annually. There are amazing world class sights, unrivalled shopping, restaurants, parks and entertainment to suit every taste and budget.
Money
The unit of currency is Britain is the British Pound. There are thousands of ATM machines across London. Traveller Cheques can be exchanged at a Bank. I personally would not change any money at the airport. Instead I would visit a well known bank or alternatively some Marks & Spencer Department stores have bureau de change facility.
Weather
It rains a lot in England. Best to check the weather forecast before you get here. We didn't have much of a summer this year. Temperatures start dropping around October time. It will probably stay cold until March or April. Bring a jacket and an umbrella just in case.
Opening Hours For Shops
Shops are usually open Monday - Friday from 10am until 6pm. Most shops stay open late on a Friday. Usually until about 8pm. Big supermarkets like Tescos and Asda have stores which stay open 24 hours during the week.
Health
There are pharmacists all over London. Boots is a popular pharmacy store. There is one chemist I know which is open 24 hours a day. Very close to Earls Court its called Zafash Pharmacy
Tipping
It is up to you if you would like to tip anyone for good service that you have received. Generally speaking I never leave less than a 10% tip in restaurants. Hotel porters would normally expect to be tipped. You should tip at your discression. There is no law saying you must tip anyone. In fact the porters at Heathrow Airport are not supposed to accept tips.
Telephones and Mobile Phones
There are payphones everywhere in London operated by BT. The minimum charge is 40p just for a local call. You can buy a mobile phone which is more convenient. Some local supermarkets have very good deals on mobile phones. But I personally would go to a famous High Street shop called Carphone Warehouse. I would just buy a basic Nokia Mobile phone with a Talk Mobile Sim Card which gives you cheaper calling rates when calling abroad. Better to buy a phone which is unlocked/unrestricted. It is up to you if you want to get a contract phone but if I were staying in England long term I would just get a Sim Only 1 month contract deal and I'd buy a nice new mobile handset from Ebay.
Smoking
Smoking is banned in all public places such as bars, clubs and restaurants. This also includes inside your Taxi.
Alcohol
You must be 18 to buy alcohol in the UK
Where Shall I Stay?
There are hundreds of Hotels and many Hostels in and around London. Go to the Useful Info page where I there are a list of Hotel Links.
Where Shall I Visit?
The best way to learn about London is to go out and explore for yourself. I have decided to give you as many links as I can think of for the most popular attractions in and around London. There are always different ways of getting discounts at the main attractions. Ask your driver and he'll give you the best advice. If you Enjoy!