Travel Tips London

How to Obtain the UK Visa

Entry into the UK requires a separate visa rather than Schengen Visa. For tourism, business and academic purposes (6 months or less), travelers need a standard visa to enter the UK. First and foremost, travelers must know the purpose of their visit and apply accordingly. You can apply for the standard visa if one of these conditions or more apply on you.

• Tourism purposes (vacations)
• Visit family or friends
• Volunteer with a registered charity organization (up to 30 days)
• You have to travel to another country from the UK (In transit)
• For certain business activities, e.g. to attend meetings, or interview
• For paid work events or engagements, e.g. to give lectures or perform
• To participate in a school exchange program
• To do a short recreational course, e.g. a dance course
• For study or a placement exam
• For academics, senior doctors or dentists
• For medical reasons

Travelers can apply as early as 3 months before travel through the online visa system. A standard visit visa lasts for 6 months whereas long-term visas are also available if you want to visit multiple times. Standard visit visa for medical reasons allows patients to stay up to 11 months and academics can stay up to 12 months. We recommend you do your research thoroughly before applying for the visa and provide the necessary documents for a positive result.

Transport in London

The wide-reaching public transport in London includes various modes of transport including tube, railways, coaches, shuttles and buses. An extensive network of taxis spans across the city to provide a faster and more convenient way of getting around the city. Explore the city on foot or by car by using the following modes of transport

London Underground Tube

London’s popular underground metro, also known as the ‘tube’ allows travelers to reach all the central areas. The underground tube has 12 lines including Bakerloo, Central, Circle, District, Hammersmith & City, Jubilee, Metropolitan, Northern, Piccadilly, Victoria, Waterloo & City, and Elizabeth line. During peak hours, the train runs every 5 minutes, while in off-peak hours, it operates every 10 minutes from the stations.

Elizabeth Line

The Elizabeth Line, the newest addition to the UK's rail network, offers an alternative mode of transportation in London. Formerly named 'Crossrail', this railway system was introduced to link Heathrow not only with Central and West London but also with East London. Operating every 10 to 15 minutes from all terminals, it facilitates connections to the Underground Tube as well. The underground train service connects Heathrow to various central London destinations, including Paddington, Bond Street, and Liverpool Street. However, drawbacks of this railway service include a journey time of over 40 minutes to Central London and the absence of luggage storage compartments.

Private Taxi

London is home to a wide range of taxi services to ensure a seamless and convenient journey from one place to another. From standard yellow cabs to mini-cabs to luxurious black taxis, you have the flexibility to choose based on your budget and preferences. Additionally, chauffeur services are offered, allowing you to pre-book amenities such as luggage handling, flight tracking, and various luxury onboard services. Furthermore, our Private Taxi service features a 'Calculate your Fare' option, enabling you to assess fares based on distance before making a booking.

Currency in the UK

Pound Sterling is the official currency of the UK and abbreviated as GBP. It is the fourth most commonly exchanged currency on the forex market, only behind the Euro, USD and the Japanese Yen. 1 GBP is equal to 1.27 USD currently. Currencies like the US Dollar, GBP and Euro trade in the global foreign exchange market 24 hours a day. As one of the most powerful currencies in the world, GBP is readily available at currency exchange shops around the world.

Where to Stay in London

London is one of the most visited cities in the world and is home to an array of tourist-friendly neighborhoods and districts. The best place to stay depends on a lot of factors including your budget, distance from the city center and transport links. Ideally, choose a hotel near the city center or somewhere with good transport links so you can get around the city easily. Some of the most recommended neighborhoods to stay in London include

Must-see Attractions in London

London is home to some of the world’s most popular tourist sites with a blend of history and modern marvels. Here's a curated list of some of the top attractions in the city:

London Eye

The London Eye is one of the most iconic landmarks and a must-visit attraction for tourists in London. It is located on the South Bank of the River Thames very close to Westminster Bridge and the Houses of Parliament. Also known as Millennium Wheel, the London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel with a height of 135 meters (443 feet). It consists of 32 sealed and air-conditioned capsules, each capable of holding up to 25 passengers. The biggest highlight of the London Eye is the breathtaking panoramic views it offers of the London skyline. On a clear day, you can see landmarks such as Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, St. Paul's Cathedral, Buckingham Palace, and Tower Bridge from the top of the wheel.

Tower of London

One of the oldest and most fascinating tourist attractions in London with a history spanning over 1000 years. The tower is located on the north bank of the River Thames in Central London. It was originally built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century as a royal palace and fortress. Over the centuries, it served various purposes, including as a prison, treasury, royal mint, and armory. It is open to visitors daily, with guided tours, exhibitions, and interactive displays providing insight into its history and significance.

Westminster Abbey

One of UNESCO's world heritage sites, Westminster is one of the oldest and biggest churches in England. It is located in the heart of London, in Westminster District, very close to the Big Ben and River Thames. Originally founded as a Benedictine Monastery in the 10th century, it became a royal church and a coronation site for monarchs. Throughout history, many royal weddings, funerals, and other important events have taken place in Westminster Abbey.

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is known as the most iconic landmarks in London and serves as the official residence of the British royal family in the city. It is located in Westminster, near St. James's Park and Green Park. The palace's central location makes it easily accessible from various parts of London. Formerly known as Buckingham House, the palace was built in 1703 as a private residence for the Duke of Buckingham. Later on, it was acquired by King George III in 1761 as a private residence for Queen Charlotte. Since then, it has been the official London residence of the British monarchs.

St. Paul’s Cathedral

Known as one of London's most iconic and beloved landmarks, St. Paul's Cathedral is popular for its stunning architecture and rich history. Located in the heart of London's financial district, the City of London, the Cathedral offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. The crypt underneath the cathedral is the largest in Europe and houses tombs and memorials of many notable figures from British history, including Sir Christopher Wren, the Duke of Wellington, and Admiral Lord Nelson.

Big Ben

A symbolic landmark that represents the UK around the world, Big Ben is located at the north end of the Palace of Westminster and sits adjacent to the River Thames. The tower was completed in 1859 as part of the Palace of Westminster's reconstruction after the original building was destroyed by fire in 1834. The Great Bell, weighing over 13 tons, was cast in 1858 and first rang on July 11, 1859. The Elizabeth Tower, commonly known as Big Ben, is an impressive Gothic-style structure standing at a height of 96 meters (315 feet). It features four clock faces, each measuring 7 meters (23 feet) in diameter, and is adorned with ornate architectural details, including spires, arches, and intricate carvings.

Tower Bridge

Constructed between 1886 and 1894, Tower Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in UK's history. It was designed by Sir Horace Jones and Sir John Wolfe Barry and officially opened by Queen Victoria in 1894. The unique and stunning design of the bridge is a masterpiece of Victorian engineering that can be raised to allow large ships and boats to pass through. One of the highlights of its designs is the glass floor walkway installed in 2014 that allows visitors to look down at the river and traffic below.

Where to Eat in London

Apart from its scenic views and breathtaking history, London is also a melting pot of flavors. From staple local dishes to global cuisines and regional favorites, travelers are in for a unique and delectable surprise. Here are London’s top 5 restaurants you cannot miss whenever you are in town and looking to indulge in new flavors:

• The Wolsely
• Duck & Waffle
• Honey & Co
• St. John Marylebone
• Cafe Cecilia

Nightlife in London

London boasts a lively and energetic nightlife with a wide array of clubs, bars and pubs spread across the city. The city’s mesmerizing and glimmering skyline captivates tourists from all walks of life. Here are the most popular sites for the best sundowner parties, bars with live music and dj performances in clubs.

• SOHO
• Kensington
• Shoreditch
• Hoxton
• South Bank

Best Shopping Destinations in London

London is nothing short of a shoppers paradise for fashion enthusiasts and style lovers around the world. From high-end fashion streets to luxury boutiques and vintage shopping, you are in for a real treat. Here are London’s most raved and renowned shopping destinations that offer an unbeatable experience to travelers.

• Oxford Street
• Regent Street
• Westfield
• Carnaby Street
• Bond Street & Mayfair