Organize your stay London
Money London
The currency in the UK is the pound sterling. One pound comprises 100 pence. The smallest unit is the penny. You'll find coins in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 p and £1 and £2. Banknotes are 5, 10, 20 and £50. The exchange rate in October 2023 is around £1 = €1.15. Beware of charges, so call your bank before your trip to check your authorizations. It's better to withdraw money directly on the spot than to change it before departure. Beware of Euronet ATMs, which can charge up to £3 commission on your withdrawal. Bank cards are accepted absolutely everywhere.
Some online banks, such as Revolut or BoursoBank, charge no fees abroad.
Budget & Tips London
London is one of the most expensive cities in the world. A stay in London is not cheap. Transport and accommodation are certainly the most expensive, as are the monuments to visit. A bus ticket costs £1.75. A night in a hostel costs around £30/£40, while a double room in a hotel costs from £90. Try to stay in zone 2. It's cheaper and still very well served. Fortunately, most museums are free and you can eat cheaply in pubs and chains like Prêt à Manger. Expect to pay £12 -£15 for a full meal in a pub and £5.50 for a pint. A 15% tip is paid in restaurants. A minimum of £50 per day is required, not including accommodation.
Passport and visas London
To go to London, bring your passport because since the United Kingdom left Europe, the identity card is not enough.
Driver's license London
The French license is valid in the UK. With this license, you can generally rent a car from the age of 22. Young drivers often have to pay a surcharge.
Security London
On the whole, London is a fairly safe city. The police are numerous and among the most courteous in the world; it's also the city in Europe with the most surveillance cameras (they're everywhere, even in the parks!). However, as in any big city, you're not immune to theft, and certain basic rules of caution apply. Avoid walking around dressed as a tourist, and keep your documents and money in a safe place (inside pocket, wallet belt). Be extra vigilant in public places and crowded areas (Piccadilly, Oxford Street, Camden...). And don't leave your bag on the floor in bars or clubs. In the event of theft, report it to the police. The subway is fairly safe, with staff on duty at all times. If you feel unsafe, take the bus or a cab! Zone 1 is touristy and completely safe. Avoid hanging around too much at night in areas such as Tottenham Hale, Seven Sisters, Limehouse or Brixton.
As for the risk of terrorist attack, the situation is the same as in other Western capitals such as Paris, Berlin or Rome... For the latest information on local security, consult the "Conseils aux voyageurs" section of the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs website: www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/voyageurs. Be aware, however, that the site provides an exhaustive list of potential dangers, which sometimes gives a rather alarmist picture of the real situation in the country.
Time difference London
There is only a one hour time difference with London. In summer and in winter, there is one hour less with our neighbours across the Channel. So we gain an hour on arrival.
Spoken languages London
Is it necessary to point out that English is spoken in London? The English very rarely speak French. But over 300,000 French people live in the UK, and ¾ of them live in London. Over 300 languages are spoken in the capital.
Communication London
There are no extra charges for using your French package in the UK, because although the country has left the European Union, free data roaming continues for the time being. Wifi is available everywhere in London, in museums and public places. 4G works very well, and London is currently betting heavily on the development of 5G.
Electricity and measurements London
Voltage 240 volts and 3-pin plugs. So remember to bring an adapter with you, or buy one on the spot, specifying that it's for England. They are often available in larger hotels, and at railway stations and airports. In London, all plugs have an on and off position.
Weights and measures: 1 mile = 1.609 km. 1 pound = 453 g. 1 inch = 2.54 cm. 1 pint = 0.56 liter. 1 gallon = 4.5 liters.
Luggage London
In summer and winter, be sure to bring an umbrella and a raincoat. Rain is frequent throughout the year and can come unexpectedly, even on a good day. Take warm clothes in winter. And good walking shoes because the distances are great and you walk a lot.
