General London Information
British lifestyle emanates from the innovative and multi-cultural centre that
is London today. All national trends emerge from this urban metropolis: whether
it is clothes, food, fashion, or aspects of everyday life. As avid London
visitors we want to show you 'what's hot' in the capital at the moment!
Climate
Weather in London is very unpredictable and temperatures are generally mild.
Warmest months are July and August with temperatures under 20oC/86oF
while in June and September, temperatures range around 16oC/60oF.
Rain averages around 40 millimetres every month.
Clothing
Rain is unpredictable no matter what season so it is good to bring along a
jacket or waterproof clothing wherever you go. Winter is cold so bring along
clothes that can keep you warm. Cool and casual clothes are suitable for summer.
Weather during spring and autumn is also unpredictable so it is good to check
first before you travel.
Currency
The Currency used in London is the pound sterling (£). Traveller's cheques and
major credit cards are acceptable in most shops, restaurants and hotels. There
is no restriction on the amount of travellers’ cheques changed.
Customs
As long as one is not bringing drugs or weapons into the city, United Kingdom
Customs are usually very lenient with tourists. Do note that pet animals
entering the UK must have a current import licence and undertake six months
quarantine at approved quarantine premises.
Electricity
Electricity is supplied at 240 volts in London.
Emergency Call Numbers
Police / Ambulance / Fire
999
Health
It is advisable to have medical insurance when travelling. EU citizens are
entitled to free medical care from the National Health Service, but there will
be a charge for citizens from other countries. Late night pharmacies, emergency
doctors and hospitals are available in London.
Local Area Information
London, the capital of Britain, is where tourists start their visit to Britain.
Having an area of 1,500 sq. km, London resides a population of 7 million from
all walks of life.
Public Phones
Those old traditional red booths have mostly been replaced with modern,
see-through booths. Coins, phonecards and credit cards are acceptable.
Phonecards are available from newsagent and post offices and come in
different amounts.
Shopping and Business Hours
Shopping hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Shops are now allowed to open for
up to six hours on a Sunday (except Christmas Day and Easter), and there's an
increasing amount of late-night shopping, usually on Wednesday
and Thursday, when shops stay open until about 8:00 p.m. Offices are open from
9:00 a.m. or 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. or 5:30 p.m. Banks are open, generally, from 9:30 a.m. to
4:30pm.
Taxes
There is a 17.5% Value Added Tax (VAT) added to most goods and restaurants.
However, non-European Union citizens can claim back VAT on most goods.
