United Kingdom travel Tips
The United Kingdom is made up of England, Scotland and Wales, and is permeated with historical sites, cultural delights and rolling green countryside interspersed with highly developed cities. It is generally considered safe to travel throughout the country, but tourists should be aware of their personal belongings at all times in the cities, particularly London, which has a relatively high crime rate in comparison to the rest of the country. The health risks associated with travelling in the UK are minimal, and the healthcare system is excellent.
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British society is relatively reserved in manner, dress and speech, and a certain degree of etiquette is required in many parts of the country. Be sure to greet people politely with a handshake, apologise if you bump into someone, and wait your turn in lines.
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Even if it is customary in your country, do not greet new acquaintances with a kiss. It is customary only to kiss close friends and relatives in the UK.
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The weather in the UK is grey and rainy for much of the year, and most buildings are centrally heated, so make sure you dress in layers and carry an umbrella with you at all times.
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Make the most of the fabulous cultural experiences on offer, including the theatre, musical performances and art exhibits.
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There is a strict etiquette on escalators – stand on the right, walk on the left.
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Smoking is banned on public transport, but is still permitted in most restaurants and bars.
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Some of the upmarket hotels have restaurants that require men to wear a jacket a tie in the evening.
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British exchange bureaux and banks charge excessively high rates for changing money, so it is better to opt for using a bank card at an ATM if you want to draw a small amount of money.
Useful travel tips resources
Iexplore
Information on social customs and taboos in the UK.
http://www.iexplore.com/dmap/England/Do's+and+Don'ts
Woodlands Junior School
School site with helpful tips on polite behaviour in the UK.
http://www.woodlands-junior.kent.sch.uk/customs/behaviour.html
Footprint Guides - United Kingdom
Site with useful travel advice on a variety of destinations.
http://www.footprintguides.com/
More topics on this site…
UK travel information
UK health and safety
UK maps and geography
Essentials
Visas: Visa not required by EU nationals and citizens of Australia, Canada, USA and Japan.
Season: April - September
Money: English pound
Language: English
Emergency #: 112; 999