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London may
seem like the perfect place to travel because language isn’t
a problem for those of us speaking English. The lingo may be
different but at least it’s possible to make yourself
understood, get directions and explanations, and carry on
conversations. Still, London is foreign to “foreigners”
and you should exercise the same caution and street smart you
would in any major city in the United States.
The idea
while traveling is to be smart and safe about your
explorations, to assimilate but never forget that you’re not
at home. Things happen when you travel. Unless you’re on a
huge tour bus where you are escorted from place to place, you
will get lost once or twice. If you’re not careful, you
might encounter a pickpocket, some sort of harassment or, at
the very least, a person who will be less than helpful.
There is so
much to explore in a city of this size, it’s important not
to overdo it. You will be walking between Tube stops or bus
stops and attractions and within attractions. Remember that
cars travel on the opposite side of the street than they do in
the United States. Bus stops going the direction you want to
travel will be on the other side of the street as well. Travel
armed with a map of both the streets and the key attractions.
Carry a map of the public transportation system, with stops
clearly labeled.
Carry
wallets in front pockets and purses slung across you, with a
firm hold on the strap. The same goes for cameras. Always be
aware of your surroundings and the people around you.
Even
with the exchange rate at its best, between the U.S.
dollar and the British pound, things are still expensive in
London. Remember the exchange rate when you make your
purchases so you won’t be stuck with a case of sticker shock
when you return. You’ll get the best exchange rate with your
credit card, and short of that, at a bank. A hotel will give
you the worst exchange rate and currency exchanges can tack on
a hefty service charge. You may want to consider changing a
small amount of money at the airport on arrival to have change
for tips.
When dining,
check to make sure a tip has not already been added to the
bill. Europeans are not accustomed to tipping and, in some
restaurants, waiters will not even accept them. It’s always
nice to offer them, and to remember to tip at hotels as you
would at home.
Try to plan
to visit attractions that are in close proximity each day, and
allow for lines and extra time to travel in an unfamiliar
place. There will be walking involved between Tube or bus
stops and attractions. There will always be more to see than
you have time for during a trip. Don’t wear yourself out
with an overly ambitious schedule.
Lastly,
remember to have fun and even enjoy the strange or new
circumstances that present themselves. It’s all part of the
experience and the memories of what is sure to be a memorable
trip in London!
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