The United Kingdom is a group of four nations, offering both untouched countryside and vibrant cities alike.
Travelling to the UK is at the top of almost everyone’s bucket list at one stage or another.
Your first visit to the UK should be about experiencing new things, visiting tourist sites, and having the time of your life.
For the most memorable UK trip, pack for all types of weather, embrace local customers, and celebrate new experiences.
Follow these eight local tips below to learn about what to expect from your first visit:
Tea Is Dinner
This one takes a bit to get used to, even though the premise is pretty simple.
People in the UK refer to dinner as tea, which is fine – unless tea to you is a 10 am thing with a granola bar. In this case, things tend to get slightly complicated.
The quicker you learn this one, the better.
As weird as it is, just let them have it – the English invented the telephone.
Stand On The Right
At the risk of sounding too vague and not committing to this point – people from the United Kingdom are relatively easygoing until you waste their time.
Always stand on the right, especially when going up escalators with your luggage. Nothing infuriates the English more than stupidity and time wasting and blocking them on the escalator ticks both those boxes in spectacular fashion.
Get An Oyster Card
As a tourist, the easiest option is to use a contactless card for all payments but there is a reloadable card called an Oyster Card that you can buy to tap in and out.
It works like a gift card that you fill up with travel credit but the prices and caps are the same for Oyster cards and contactless cards so it only really benefits people who do not use contactless payments.
There is an activation fee for Oyster cards, so it is not worth it for a short trip unless your bank charges you steep fees for individual foreign transactions.
Do Not Skimp On Travel Insurance
If you are going to the United Kingdom, do not skimp on UK travel insurance.
It will ensure you have the experience of a lifetime without having to worry about things like lost luggage, travel delays, or medical emergencies.
Do your research and choose the best coverage for your adventure.
Avoid skimping on your package; the plan that best fits your needs might not be the cheapest but it will offer the best protection while you are away.
While travel insurance is not mandatory for all UK visitors, it is highly recommended. Short-term visitors do not have automatic NHS access, and unexpected medical expenses add up quickly.
The Weather Is That Bad
Talking about the weather is a British tradition; it is in their blood as much as the Red Sox team is for Bostonians.
The more lamentable the forecast, the more people like to talk about it. There is no use fighting it – just go with it.
Come rain or shine, make sure that you have an opinion on the day’s weather – people will like you more and you will assimilate into the country better.
Lastly, be sure to pack a jacket wherever you go. Layers are your friend, even in the summer months.
Accents Can Be Tricky
We can all agree that the British accent is one of the sexiest in the world.
Just remember that James Bond did that, not Austin Powers.
As sexy as this accent is, it can also be complicated and near impossible to understand, depending on where you are and where they are from.
If possible, travel with a group of friends that includes some locals. Some people really should come with subtitles but until then, a local guide is your next best bet.
The Scottish accent is by far the best, but it is also the hardest to understand for travellers.
Narrow Country Roads
The United Kingdom has an extensive transportation network of trains, buses, and flights between major cities.
It also has narrow country roads that will make your life flash before your eyes if you do not know about them beforehand. Consider this fair warning – yes the roads are narrow, and yes, you will make it through.
To make your life easier, hire a compact car so you do not feel compelled to hold your breath around every turn.
There Is A Whole World Outside Of London
When thinking of the United Kingdom, many people think of London but there is so much more to it than that.
London is bold, cold, and in your face in the best way possible, but it is not for everyone. If you have the time, explore the rest of the United Kingdom.
Scotland offers a rich cultural heritage (outside of Mel Gibson movies) and has some of the most stunning natural landscapes. Think of the dramatic beauty of the Highlands or the iconic Loch Ness, sans the monster – maybe.
Wales offers rugged coastlines and the most charming towns. All sheep jokes aside, it is a great place.
Lastly, Northern Ireland’s highlights include the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with basalt columns, and the Mourne Mountains, which provide a gorgeous backdrop for outdoor adventures.
To End
In conclusion, these eight tips above should help ensure that you make only good memories on your trip!
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