England

Country Garden

Information

Over 66.4 million live in the United Kingdom.  The United Kingdom is made up of Scotland,  Wales and Northern Ireland.  It is situated in the Northwest of Europe. England is the site of Neolithic Stonehenge, Bath’s Roman Spa, Centuries old universities of Oxford and Cambridge as well as many castles and other fascinating buildings.
England is a must visit for anyone interested in History, Culture and Scenic Landscapes.

QUICK FACTS:

Currency:  Pound Sterling

Language: English

Visa: Majority of visitors will need a visa which must be obtained prior to arriving in the country.  There are some exceptions to this, but especially with the exiting of Brexit much may change so check with consulate when planning your trip.

Power: 240 volts AC.  Plug  types G

Safety:  As with any large population, crime is increasing.  To stay safe, do not accept drinks from strangers or leave them unattended.  Keep your valuables stored away and hidden.  Be alert in all public places when using credit cards or ATM’s, ensure you conceal your pin numbers.

TRANSPORT:

The UK has a vast public transport network to make getting around fairly painless.  To get around, trains are by far the easiest but not the cheapest.  You can fly between major cities.

Buses and taxis are plentiful or hire a car and drive yourself – better to see the beautiful countryside.

FESTIVALS:

Easter – March/April depending on year
Spring Bank Holiday – May
Glastsonbury Music Festival, June
Isle of Wight Music Festival, June
Christmas – December

 

Planning

The UK has a temperate climate which in general means cool wet winters and warm wet summers.  Winter is officially November to April and Summer May to October but weather from any season can happen in any season so you need to be prepared.  Rainfall varies in all months between 40 mm to 70 mm. Daytime temperatures range between 0-8 in winter and 10-30 in summer.

Packing:  
Layering is important, pack as many things that can double up as under garments to keep out unexpected chills but that can be shed as the weather warms during the day.  Gloves and a hat are great extras that do not take up much space but can really make you feel more comfortable in those cold mornings.
Casual and Smart dress will be required, depending on places you plan to visit.  
Wet weather gear and an umbrella are a must.

BUDGET:

Accommodation:-
Dorm Beds from 20 GBP pp
Basic double room from 45 GBP
Mid range from 65 GBP
Luxury 250 GBP plus

Food:-
Cheap Eats 8 – 12 GBP pp
Restaurants 15 – 25 GBP pp

Breakfasts are the cheapest meals to eat out as there is a lot of competition. So one way to save money is eat a large breakfast out, then self cater for other meals.
Supermarkets also do sandwiches and meals and many foods come pre-packed as a meal for travellers.

Transport:-
Train, Underground  & Bus in London – buy a Travel card, this can be for 1 day, 7 days or a month and is far cheaper than single trips.
1 day from 24 GBP
7 day from 70 GBP

Taxis are metered and will cost a lot more in busy traffic periods so avoid these times if possible.

Car hire  20 GBP a day depending on type of car and length of hire. Warning traffic in London is mental.

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April 19, 2024 No Comments

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