Five Things to Know Before Visiting the UK
By Space Coast Daily // March 2, 2020
If you’re traveling across the pond for a vacation in the UK, then you’ll find yourself with plenty to see and do. There are a few things you should be aware of before traveling to this country if you’ve never been before; let the following 5 points help you prepare for your trip and plan your perfect itinerary.
1. There is plenty to do in the capital
If you’re looking for a bustling city that has a lot of the iconic UK sites for you to visit, then London should be on your list.
This includes:
• Buckingham Palace
• The London Eye
• The Houses of Parliament
• The River Thames
This capital city is perfect if you’re looking to combine sight-seeing with city shopping, eating and drinking.
If you’re looking for something a little more guided, there are many sightseeing tours you can book in London, too, including open-top buses if the weather is feeling generous.
For something a little more tailored, you can even look into Harry Potter tours if you’re a film fan, as many of the movie’s big scenes were shot in London.
2. Traffic Drives on the Opposite of the Road
If you’re planning to rent a vehicle during your visit, then you’ll need to know that drivers use the road on the left and not the right, and so the steering wheel will be on the opposite side of the car too. This can be disorientating if you are not used to it, so be sure to research all you can about safe driving methods in the UK.
For bigger cities such as London, the rules and driving experience can be very intimidating – even to local drivers – so you always have the option of public transport if you would prefer.
3. Tipping Isn’t Compulsory
There will be an option for leaving a tip following any restaurant bill, but it isn’t compulsory, and it isn’t considered offensive to avoid leaving a tip. You always have the option to leave a tip anytime you feel you would like to, but it isn’t necessary to do so in the UK.
4. Prepare for the Weather
British weather is notoriously changeable, and for the majority of the time – apart from during rare heatwaves – it may be wet and miserable.
This can be hard to become accustomed to if you’re traveling from a hotter climate, but if the goal of your trip is dependable hot weather, then the UK might not be the ideal location for you. Be sure to pack for any kind of weather, including a good raincoat.
5. You May Encounter Many Languages and Accents
The UK is extremely varied in its languages. A trip to the UK may see you exposed to English, Welsh, Scottish, Irish, Gaelic, and Cornish.
You may also find yourself trying to work out the meaning of local vocabulary, but as people within the UK are friendly, you can always ask if you’re unsure what certain words mean.
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