London Airport & Tourist Guide. click on a link below for further information...

What to see - Tourist Trail
LONDON - for the Chocoholic... Next time you're in Notting Hill or Portobello Antique Market, in West London, make your way to Westbourne Grove for a chocoholic's ultimate fix. 'Artisan du Chocolat' have just opened a rather smart chocolateria at 81 Westbourne Grove with a menu chocoholics can only normally dream about. They have hot fondant, salted caramel chocolate tart, chocolate mousse, fresh fruits dipped in melted chocolate and a tasting platter of chocolates. Ask them about their tasting evening! (Held once a month for around £35 per person). Master Chocolatier, Nick Strangeway, has taken the pulp surrounding the cocoa beans (with the texture of lychees and the taste of strong apple) to create a Bellini, and also a classic New Orleans Fizz with his signature white drinking chocolate. You can also enjoy a chocolate martini, and for those who enjoy chocolate without the alcoholic kick, there's a non-alcoholic chocolate granitas - both you can enjoy at the tables outside this establishment. Enjoy!!! www.artisanduchocolat.com
Buckingham Palace. Buckingham House was built for the Duke of Buckingham in 1703. George III purchased the house in 1762 and used it as one of the royal family's London homes. George IV employed John Nash to build a new palace round the old house. Nash designed the building with Marble Arch as the main entrance. Marble Arch was later moved to Hyde Park. It was not until 1837 that Queen Victoria made Buckingham Palace the royal family's principal London residence. When visiting see if the Union Jack flag is flying. The other flag you may see is the Queens Standard, this will mean the Queen is in residence. Link to British Royal Family website below these articles
Tower Bridge. Tower Bridge has a fascinating history, which is explored in full in The Tower Bridge Experience. Here are a few interesting facts you may not have known: Tower Bridge was completed in 1894, after 8 years of construction. 1910 - the high-level walkways, which were designed so that the public could still cross the bridge when it was raised, were closed down due to lack of use. Most people preferred to wait at the bottom and watch the bascules rise up! 1912 - during an emergency, Frank McClean had to fly between the bascules and the high-level walkways in his Short biplane, to avoid an accident. 1952 - a London bus had to leap from one bascule to the other when the bridge began to rise with the bus still on it. 1977 - Tower Bridge was painted red, white and blue to celebrate the Queen's Silver Jubilee. (Before that, it was painted a chocolate brown colour). 1982 - Tower Bridge opened to the public for the first time since 1910, with a permanent exhibition inside called The Tower Bridge Experience. Tower Bridge is one of the world's most famous bridges. 150,000 vehicles cross it every day. Over 900 times a year the roadway parts and lifts to let tall ships, cruise liners and other large craft pass through. Click on picture for website
St. Paul's The first church on this spot was erected in 604 AD. This wooden church was established by King Ethelbert of Kent as home to the first bishop of the East Saxons, Mellitus. This church was destroyed by fire and rebuilt by St. Erkenwald, then bishop, in 675-85. Fire was not the only danger faced by buildings in those dark centuries of Anglo-Saxon England - the Vikings destroyed the second St. Paul's in 962 during on of their periodic invasions. Once again, fire destroyed the third church in 1087. A new fourth church, a Norman building, now called Old St. Paul's, took over 150 years to complete, the final touches being applied in 1240. Well, not quite final touches - a new Gothic choir was added by 1313, making St. Paul's the third longest church in Europe at 596 feet. The following year the spire was completed. At 489 feet it was the tallest in all Europe. In the Tudor period an open-air pulpit called Paul's Cross was established by the south wall of St. Paul's. There crowds gathered to hear rabble-rousing Protestant sermons. In 1549 the preachers incited a mob to sack the cathedral itself. They rampaged through the interior, destroying the high altar and ravaging the tombs, wall-hangings, and tombs. Then the spire was struck by lightning, as it towered over the city. The church fell into decline for a few years despite efforts to renovate it. During the English Civil War, Parliamentary troops commandeered the cathedral and used the nave as cavalry barracks. They broke up the scaffolding and sold the material. The fortunes of Old St. Paul's seemed to take a turn for the better with the Restoration of the Monarchy in 1660. Charles II appointed a young architect named Christopher Wren to undertake major repairs to the building. Wren had only begun his work when final calamity struck. On September 4, 1666, fire broke out in a bakehouse in Pudding Lane. Fanned by a fierce wind, the fire spread through the close-packed streets of London, destroying everything in its path. For four days the fire raged, and when the smoke finally cleared, Old St. Paul's was nothing but charred timbers and rubble. Wren's first two designs for the cathedral were rejected by the church as being too modern. & the second design was rejected for being too Italian (i.e.. Catholic). The scale model of this design, is in the crypt of the present St. Paul's. Finally in 1675 Wren gave the clergy what they wanted; a traditional English church design with a long nave and spire. The king granted Wren a royal warrant approving this design with the interesting proviso that the architect was free to make "variations, rather ornamental than essential".(A free hand to Wren!) On the strength of the Royal Warrant Wren proceeded to quietly change just about every essential element of the design the clergy thought they were getting. He got rid of three bays in the nave, did away with the spire, enlarged the dome, and raised the aisle walls. Much of this work proceeded behind scaffolding and protected from prying eyes. By the time the furious clergy realized what Wren had done the church was too far gone to be altered. When stone was laid for the centre of the new building, stones from the Old St. Paul's were used. Wren noticed that one of the stones was marked with the Latin inscription "resurgam", "I shall rise again". He had the word inscribed on the pediment of the south door, beneath a carved phoenix. From the laying of the first stone in 1675 to the final touches in 1708, the cathedral was finished in a mere 33 years. St. Paul's is alone among English cathedrals as just one man's creative vision. Click on picture for website
Palace of Westminster The Palace of Westminster was the principal residence of the kings of England from the middle of the 11th century until 1512. In medieval times kings summoned their courts wherever they happened to be. But by the end of the 14th century the court in all its aspects - administrative, judicial and parliamentary - had its headquarters at Westminster. The Mediaeval Hall (Westminster) William I, having established his first stronghold at the Tower, later moved to Westminster; and it is from the reign of his son, William Rufus, that the first extant buildings on the site date, including Westminster Hall, the Great Hall, which was built at the northern end of the Palace and still stands today after celebrating nine hundred years of continuous use in 1999. The hall was designed originally as a place for feasting and entertaining, but its very size made it more than that. Among other uses, the Royal Council of bishops, nobles and ministers assembled there. The special later form of this Council, which came to be known as Parliament, was the forerunner of the present House of Lords. It was also the site of the first true English parliament to include elected representatives, summoned by Simon de Montfort in 1265. While Parliament has never met in the Hall on a regular basis, it was the existence of the Hall, which at that time was the largest in Europe, that helped to make Westminster the judicial and administrative centre of the kingdom. The Palace was one of the monarch's principal homes throughout the later Middle Ages, and for this reason the institutions of Government came to be clustered in the Westminster area. To the east and south of the Hall lay the domestic apartments of the mediaeval Palace, and later, the royal chapel of St. Stephen. Kings worshipped in the upper Chapel and their courtiers in the lower level or "crypt" chapel below. The Hall, of which the walls were built in 1097-99, as part of an intended reconstruction of the whole palace, is the oldest extant building on the Palace of Westminster site. Its floor area is about 1850 sq. yds, and it is one of the largest mediaeval halls in Europe with an unsupported roof. The roof was originally supported by two rows of pillars, but the present magnificent hammerbeam roof was designed in the reign of Richard II. The mason/architect of the 14th century rebuilding was Henry Yevele, and the carpenter/designer of the roof, Hugh Herland. Westminster Hall was the traditional venue for Coronation banquets. Click on picture for website
The White Tower The White Tower was not only the first building of what is known to be the Tower of London but also it is the first stone keep in England. Started in 1078 it replaced an earlier wooden fort built on the site after the Norman Conquest in 1066. Its excellent strategic position dominated the city and river, but the specific siting was influenced by the Roman city wall To the majority of visitors to the Tower of London the resident ravens appear to be just oversized black birds similar in appearance to the common crow. In many ways that is what they are but to dismiss them merely as being such would be almost the same as passing off a Golden Retriever dog as being a larger version of say, a King Charles Spaniel... Legend has it that should the ravens ever leave the Tower of London the White Tower will crumble and a great disaster shall befall England... Click on picture for website
Kensington Palace Kensington Palace has been a royal home for over 300 years and parts of the palace remain a private residence for members of the Royal Family today. The magnificent State Apartments and the Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection, which includes dresses worn by HM Queen Elizabeth II and Diana, Princess of Wales, are open to the public. Click on picture for website
The London Dungeon Deep in the heart of London, buried beneath London Bridge station, lies the world's most chillingly famous museum of horror. The London Dungeon brings more than 2,000 years of gruesomely authentic history vividly back to life ....and death. As you delve into the darkest chapters of our grim and bloody past, recreated in all its dreadful detail, remember : everything you will experience really happened! Click on picture for website
Hampton Court Palace For almost 200 years, Hampton Court Palace was at the centre of court life, politics and national history. Although often identified with Henry VIII, its history was influenced just as much by William III and Queen Mary II in the late 17th century. Home to many of Britain's most famous Kings & Queens, Hampton Court Palace offer a magical visit. Don't forget to visit the famous Hampton Court Maze - get lost where the Royal's did! Click on picture for website
Links for you to follow... London Transport Online - For Train, Tube, Bus and Taxi/Minicabs Information. Maps, tickets etc. Visit Britain - The British Tourist Authority,for all your Britain travel requirements. Tower of London - Begun by William the Conqueror in 1078, the Tower of London has served as a royal residence, fortress, mint, armoury and more infamously as a place of execution. London Eye - British Airways London Eye is the world’s highest observation wheel and offers passengers amazing views of Britain’s capital city. Harrods - Harrods is one of London’s most prestigious shopping venues and certainly the top shopping Mecca for tourists. British History and Historical Figures - King Arthur - Ancient Legend, now fact - check this out! The Royal Family Online - Yes, you can read about the latest Royal engagements, find out about the Order of Merit, and try a quiz in the new Royal Insight on-line magazine. Guy Fawkes & the Gunpowder Plot - A insight into the English born Traitor who tried to blow up Parliament in 1605, and the man who is still remembered, and who's death is still celebrated, by most of England on Guy Fawkes Night!(November 5th)   Back to the Top	Royal Standard Union Jack.
If you haven't got much time in London... or if you are going to be at Heathrow waiting for between 4 - 10 hours for a flight connection... Why not consider a 'Flying Purple Pig' photo tour? Click our flag to the right for more information...	Flag description : Our 'Flying Purple Pig' Flag is made up of the following... the English Flag (St. George Cross), our 'Flying Pig' logo in the right top corner, the L.A.C. Plane through the middle and our name Logo across the bottom to make it complete.
Flags, the original United Kingdom, Four Countries and Londoners!*
London is in England & St. George is the Patron Saint of England. You often see his flag for sport and competitions when teams are representing their country, rather than the United Kingdoms of England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. This United Kingdom, or Britain as it is also known, is the original United States in Europe! Confusion is not rare in UK, when distinguishing between UK and Country. In the Olympics we have a British Team, in Track and Field also. In football, cricket and rugby the four countries have separate teams. Why? 'Just Because' - that's why! (We don't know! -maybe someone can let us know). Since the UK joined the European Union, we now have yet another identity to contend with, of course, with Europeans becoming another Union of States. Already the Europeans have a golfing team! Where will it end - are borders getting blurred? Perhaps this is a good thing. Immigrants particularly, and some UK citizens from ethnic backgrounds, like to be called 'British' rather than Welsh, Scottish, Irish or English! Not wanting to be classed as a member of the country in which you live doesn't seem to go logically with integration - but for some reason it does work! Will those British soon call themselves Europeans instead? The UK seems to be one of the most diverse, tolerant and racially integrated countries in the world, and no where is this more obvious than in London. Greeks & Turks, Blacks & Whites, Indians & Pakistanis, Jews & Arabs, people from all nations, all live & work side by side in virtual harmony. If you want to know what Cyprus goodwill was like before Cypriot separation, go to Green Lanes, North London. If you want to see how Indian,Pakistani and Bangladesh's live together go to the East London Market areas or to Ealing in West London - No other City in the world can boast this active diversity and having such non-segregation at the same time! Oh, Jews & Arabs in this present climate? - Just go to Stamford Hill and surrounding areas in North London, nothing special there, just normal people - getting on together! There is even a road in Stamford Hill called "West Bank" where Jewish, Muslims, Christians, Arabs, Polish, English and African people live in total integration - perhaps Israel, Egypt, Iran and Palestine could learn from this? Obviously some opinions differ and peaceful (mainly) protests do occur, normally relating to problems happening overseas, but The UK Government and London Police forces (City & Metropolitan) all take a dim view of any discrimination of any sort. So does the average London citizen! Also most employers in the UK have a "non-discrimination policy"; you can be arrested for verbal abuse, let alone physical in London. Even tenants in Council owned houses can be evicted for Discrimination. But few people in London seem to need these rules - 'Londoners' are a proud people - proud of their heritage, history and also how we all all just Londoners, whether it's here at home or abroad. Even Ethnic Londoners, who consider themselves 'British' and not 'English', will call themselves a Londoner! How long does it take to become a "Londoner"? Stay a few weeks with us and your probably want become one by choice, and of course you will because anyone and everyone who lives here, long or short term is and always will have a little bit of London in their heart... "There are no minorities here! - only us Londoner's." Keith Geoffreys 2002 *This article is an a complete original, written by the KGC Group team and is copyright KGCGROUP - 2003		English Flag Scottish Flag Welsh Flag Northern Ireland Union (British) Flag European Flag United Nations Flag The National flag of Ireland Ireland became Independent from Britain on December 6, 1921, but links are still strong.
Back to the Top

Interesting facts about London areas and postcodes... 1. Postcodes are not located in Numerical Order, for instance... SW2 is not anywhere near SW1 or SW3! 2. The Thames River has absolutely nothing to do with whether you are in a North or South Postcode...SW1,3,5,6,7 & 10 are North of the Thames,but still South West Postcodes! 3. North and South of the River Thames have strong rivalry. It's said that when a Londoner crosses the Thames, to the other side from which he lives, he is on Foreign Soil !!! 4. Most of Central London is on the northern side of the Thames. 5. Central London's average driving speed is 3-10miles an hour during the day! 6. Letters and Parcels, bound for London, without postcodes can be delayed by days!! 7. London's' temperature is always 1-3degrees higher than it's suburbs, and normally than the whole of the UK. 8. London's Mayor can not / does not drive a car ! (And he's responsible for Planning London's Traffic Strategy!) 9. The Metro Area of London has approx. 10 million people living in it! 10. London has it's own version of the England flag. (This is it, though it is rarely used!)

Back to the Top

More to do in a London this year?

Diary

This year London has managed to stay really green. The park are full of plants and wild life, giving London a pleasant, clean atmosphere. Summer can be mild and perhaps with a few showers of rain so beware if you plan to walk around this great city of ours. Although, perhaps not the best weather in the world, London is one of those cities which cannot be spoilt by rain or cold - there's so much to do. The London Eye offers fantastic views of the city, and with 100's of museums and exhibitions, there is no way you can be struck for something to do.

Here is a suggestion for a day of fun for a mixed group of Teens and Older... Starting near London Bridge Station.

Try either "the London Dungeon", near London Bridge Station, if you dare. The Dungeon exhibits the nastier side of London's History - Crime & Punishment, the Plague and an exciting ride to the Gallows after you are judged to be 'Guilty' by a mad 18th century judge.
Or why not try "the London Bridge Experience" - History of London seen from the bridge, and then a visit to the tombs below the bridge where the lifeless bodies of those buried in mass graves pits during one of the plagues of medieval times reside... Bewares of Zombies!!! (Be warned this is not for the faint hearted and definitely not for Children under 12yrs!)

If you escape all this, or have avoided it all together, just a little further down Tooley Street, is the Blitz Experience. Here you can go back in history to the 1940 and experience what it was like to live in London during the Blitz of World War II. Being escorted to a Bomb shelter by an 'Air-raid Warden' as the Air-raid siren sounds, you will experience a real life Blitz raid and afterwards you will emerge into a bombed and wrecked city.

Once you come back to the 21st Century, why not cross over Tooley Street towards the river, and visit the 365 day Christmas shop or grab a bite to eat in the many modern restaurants and bars located between Tooley Street and the Thames river. Then you can walk along the river Thames on the South Embankment, (which is thoughtfully called "The South Bank!"). Walk to the ship HMS Belfast, which is now a floating museum which you may wish to visit. (HMS Belfast was the ship that fired it guns first to signal the start of the D-Day invasion of France in 1944).
Once past the Belfast, you will then see the new, and rather strange looking London Council buildings (the Mayor's Office).
More impressively, take a look a little further along and to your left and you will see Tower Bridge (the one that opens!) and just across the river is the Tower of London. Building started around 1070 on the WHite Tower in the centre, after the Battle of Hastings. Rather than defense, it was built as power base for the the Normans in and around London, and to impress them that the leadership of England had changed. If you walk up and then across Tower Bridge you can then visit the Crown Jewels and the Tower itself. Guided tours are available.

Afterwards, just across the main round towards Tower Hill Station, is a part of the old Roman London Wall, which is approximately 2000 years old! This was discovered whilst builders were removing rubble from destroyed building left over from the war in 1946. Then take a look at the Sun Dial just above the Tube/Underground Rail entrance - this shows the 2000 year history of London in pictures. Next to this is the Merchant Navy Memorial - which looks a little like the Washington Memorial, but is 30 years older and remembers those who lost their lives at sea in both world wars.
So this completes you days adventure - you can take the Tube (subway) from Tower Hill station here, back to Covent Garden perhaps for an evening meal and perhaps a West-End show? As Hemingway wrote; "Those who tire of London, are tired of life itself!" Enjoy!

Of course there are loads of things to do, check below for few extra ideas in addition to the main tourist attractions, sites and shows!

All Year. The London Aquarium - Right next to the London Eye and Westminster Bridge, the London Aquarium is one of London's exciting family attractions. Discover fish and water life from all over the Uk and Europe right through to Sharks and 'Rays from around the globe - there is even a petting area. (But it gets very busy!) Three floors of Aquariums with interactive displays and a three story SHARK TANK in the middle!!! A great day out - especially if you have kids with you!

All Year. NAMCO Centre - again Right next to the London Eye and Westminster Bridge, the NAMCO Centre is the place for Fun, fun and more fun. Video games, slot machines, bumper cars and prizes to be won. When you've had enough get a drink in the bar and let the kids run riot!!! From the people who brought you Pac-man, see what they have in store for you here!

All Year. Imperial War Museum, Lambeth Road, SE1 - One of the best War Museums in the world and a source of imformation regarding most conflicts of the 19th, 20 and 21st centuries. Also there is a World War One Trench for you to explore and lot of other exciting exhibits including Missles, Tanks and even a old London Double Decker Bus! Crimes Against Humanity is a new permanent exhibition at the Imperial War Museum. Exploring the themes of genocide and ethnic conflict. This exhibition is not recommended for children under 16.

All Year. New Attraction Museum In Docklands - The 2,000-year history of London's river, port and people is the focus of the Museum in Docklands, London. Housed in a Georgian warehouse on West India Quay, the museum will offer 12 galleries to show how the area has been at the heart of centuries of social and economic change. Take the Docklands light railway to get here.

All Year. Tower Bridge Experience - Tower Bridge Experience welcomes you inside the Gothic towers to discover the fascinating history of the bridge. You can visit the original Victorian engine rooms. And from the high-level walkways you can look out across the modern city skyline and down river to Canary Wharf. A visit takes about an hour. The memories will last for very much longer.

Back to the Top

Night life Links...

Late night London - GO HERE!

Clubbing in London - GO HERE!

U.S. Department of State Consular Information on the United Kingdom.
(With additions by KGC Group marked in black)

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION: The United Kingdom is a highly developed constitutional monarchy comprising (of separate countries of) England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland; Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory. Tourist facilities are widely available.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: A passport is required. Tourists are not obliged to obtain a visa for stays of up to six months in the United Kingdom or to enter Gibraltar. Those wishing to remain longer than one month in Gibraltar should regularize their stay with Gibraltar immigration authorities.

In an effort to prevent international child abduction, many governments have initiated procedures at entry/exit points. These often include requiring documentary evidence of relationship and permission for the child’s travel from the parent(s) or legal guardian if not present. Having such documentation on hand, even if not required, may facilitate entry/departure.

SAFETY AND SECURITY: The United Kingdom is stable and modern but shares with the rest of the world an increased threat of terrorist incidents of international origin, as well as violence related to the political situation in Northern Ireland (a part of the United Kingdom.) Americans are reminded to remain vigilant with regard to their personal security and to exercise caution. In recent months, several arrests have been made in Great Britain in connection with various possible terrorist plots. The British Home Secretary has urged its citizens to be alert and vigilant by, for example, keeping an eye out for suspect packages or people acting suspiciously at subway and train stations and airports and reporting anything suspicious to the appropriate authorities by contacting the free confidential anti-terrorist telephone hotline on 0800 789 321.(Or Dial 999 for immediate assistance)

From time to time during periods of heightened threat of terrorism, the U.K. Government deems it necessary to raise levels of security activity. Heightened activity may include the use of military personnel in support of the police and law enforcement officers. The use of troops, who remain at all times under the control of the police, is part of long-standing contingency plans. Military personnel and equipment may be deployed at airports and other transportation links, or other public locations. For more information about U.K. public safety initiatives, consult the U.K. Civil Contingencies Secretariat website at http://www.ukresilience.gov.uk

CRIME: The United Kingdom and Gibraltar benefit from generally low crime rates; however crime, including violent crime, has increased over the last few years. Incidents of pickpocketing, mugging, “snatch and grab” theft of mobile phones, watches and jewelry and theft of unattended bags, especially at airports and from cars parked at restaurants, hotels and resorts.

Pickpockets target tourists, especially at historic sites, restaurants, on buses, trains and the London Underground (Tube/subway). Thieves often target unattended cars parked at tourist sites and roadside restaurants, looking for laptop computers and handheld electronic equipment. (If you carry a handbag in London, do it up and carry it upside down - if a pickpocket/thief tries to open it, the contents will fall on the floor and raise attention!)

In London, travelers should use only licensed “black taxi cabs” which can be identified by the license plate placed on the rear of the purpose made vehicle.
(You can phone an advance booking to a Licensed Private Car Services. Get a recommendation from your hotel concierge or tour operator. Unlicensed taxis or private cars posing as a taxi or minicab may offer low fares, but are often uninsured and may have unlicensed drivers. In some instances, travelers have been robbed while using these cars.
NOTE: UK 'Gypsy cabs' are illegal and often operated by criminals and/or sex offenders) SEE OUR GUIDE TO TAXIS & PRIVATE HIRE - CLICK HERE

Due to the circumstances described above, visitors should take steps to ensure the safety of their U.S. passports. Visitors in the England, Scotland, Wales and Gibraltar are not expected to produce identity documents for police authorities and thus may secure their passports in hotel safes or residences. In Northern Ireland, however, passports or other photographic I.D. should be carried at all times. The need to carry a passport to cash travelers’ checks is also minimized by an abundance of ATM’s able to access systems widely used in the U.S. And offering more favorable rates of exchange. Note: Common sense personal security measures utilized in the U.S when using ATM's should also be followed in the U.K.
NOTE: It is normal for people to line up at ATM's at peak times - but always leave a meter distance from the person at the ATM itself. Likewise if anyone gets too close whilst you are using the cash machine, consider this suspicious. Always cover your hand whilst entering your personal number - and never walk away from a machine without your card.

The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. If you are the victim of a crime while overseas, in addition to reporting to local police, contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance. The Embassy/Consulate staff can, for example, assist you to find appropriate medical care, to contact family members or friends and explain how funds could be transferred. Although the investigation and prosecution of the crime is solely the responsibility of local authorities, consular officers can help you to understand the local criminal justice process and to find an attorney if needed. (Attorneys are called solicitors in the UK)

MEDICAL FACILITIES: While medical services are widely available, free care under the National Health System is allowed only to U.K. residents and certain EU nationals. US citizens, Tourists and short-term visitors can expect charges roughly comparable to those assessed in the United States.

MEDICAL INSURANCE: The Department of State strongly urges Americans to consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and if it will cover emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation. U.S. medical insurance plans seldom cover health costs incurred outside the United States unless supplemental coverage is purchased. Further, U.S. Medicare and Medicaid programs do not provide payment for medical services outside the United States. However, many travel agents and private companies offer insurance plans that will cover health care expenses incurred overseas including emergency services such as medical evacuations.

When making a decision regarding health insurance, Americans should consider that many foreign doctors and hospitals require payment in cash prior to providing service and that a medical evacuation to the U.S. may cost well in excess of $50,000. Uninsured travelers who require medical care overseas often face extreme difficulties. When consulting with your insurer prior to your trip, ascertain whether payment will be made to the overseas healthcare provider or if you will be reimbursed later for expenses you incur. Some insurance policies also include coverage for psychiatric treatment and for disposition of remains in the event of death.

TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS: While in the United Kingdom, (a foreign country), U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.

Safety of Public Transportation: Excellent
Urban Road Condition/Maintenance: Excellent
Rural Road Condition/Maintenance: Excellent
Availability of Roadside Assistance: Excellent

U.K. penalties for drunk driving are stiff and often result in prison sentences. In contrast to the United States and continental Europe where traffic moves on the right hand side of the road, traffic moves on the left in the U.K. Visitors uncomfortable with or intimidated by the prospect of driving on the left-hand side of the road may wish to avail themselves of extensive bus, rail and air transport networks that are comparatively inexpensive and very extensive. Roads in the United Kingdom are generally good, but are narrow and often congested in urban areas. If you plan to drive while in the U.K., you may wish to obtain a copy of the Highway Code, available in the United Kingdom. The Automobile Association (AA) of the U.K. provides information and updates on travel and traffic-related issues on its website at http://www.the-stationary-office.co.uk.

If you intend to rent a car in the U.K., check that you are adequately insured. U.S. auto insurance is not valid in the UK and you must purchase supplemental insurance, which is generally available from most major rental agents.

Public transport in the United Kingdom is excellent and extensive. However, poor track conditions may have contributed to train derailments resulting in some fatalities. Repairs are underway and the overall safety record is excellent.

Many U.S. citizens are injured every year in pedestrian accidents in the United Kingdom, forgetting that traffic moves in the opposite direction than in the United States. Care should be taken when crossing streets.

Driving in Gibraltar is on the right-hand side of the road, as in the U.S. And Continental Europe. Persons traveling overland between Gibraltar and Spain may experience long delays in clearing Spanish border controls.

CUSTOMS REGULATIONS: British customs authorities may strictly enforce regulations regarding the import or export of certain items, including material deemed likely to incite racial hatred, firearms and personal defense items such as mace or knives. It is advisable to contact the British Embassy in Washington or one of the United Kingdom's consulates in the U.S. for specific information regarding customs requirements. Customs authorities encourage the use of an ATA (Admission Temporaire/Temporary Admission) Carnet for the temporary admission of professional equipment, commercial samples, and/or goods for exhibitions and fair purposes. ATA Carnet Headquarters, located at the U.S. Council for International Business, 1212 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10036, issues and guarantees the ATA Carnet in the United States. For additional information call 212-354-4480, send an e-mail to atacarnet@uscib.org, or visit http://www.uscib.org for details.

CRIMINAL PENALTIES: While in a foreign country, a U.S. citizen is subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in the United States and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses. Persons violating British law, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs in the United Kingdom are strict, and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines. Many pocketknives and other blades, and mace or pepper spray canisters, although legal in the U.S., are illegal in the U.K. And may be confiscated.

Air travelers to and from the United Kingdom should be aware that penalties against alcohol-related and other in-flight crimes (“air rage”) are stiff and are being enforced with prison sentences.

The U.S. Embassy is located at 24 Grosvenor Square, London W1A 1AE; Telephone: in country
020-7499-9000, from the U.S. 011-44-20-7499-9000 (24 hours); Consular Section fax: in country
020-7495-5012; from the U.S. 011-44-20-7495-5012. The embassy web site is http://www.usembassy.org.uk.

Back to the Top

KGC Group Guide to crossing London Streets.

We drive on the left, with our steering wheel on the right. That means we turn tightly on left turns and widely on right turns. When crossing look right, then left! London is full of narrow one way roads, where drivers are skilled in getting through narrow gaps and do not expect you to walk out on them. Use official Crossings only, they are every where and are for your safety. Buses drive on the kerb/sidewalk, so stand back from the road even if you are about to board a bus. They are bigger than you and they hurt!!! (Same applies on the Tube/Subway).

1. Zebra Crossings: - use the crossings that are marked by black and white stripes. Stand on the sidewalk near the markings and wait until a car stops. Do not walk across until it is apparent that all lanes intend to stop, even if the locals do!
2. Traffic Light Crossing:- Do not cross lights unless a green man is showing!
3. Pelican Crossings: - Press the button, which lights and says 'WAIT'. Wait until you hear a beeping sound and a green man appears and only then do you cross.
Ignore the locals - they cross our roads every day! (Or worse, they maybe other tourists about to get killed!)
4. If you have to cross the road elsewhere, pay attention, our roads are fast and cars may not stop for you! Keep looking right and left as you cross - many of our cars are quiet and you may not hear them until it's too late...

Back to the Top

KGC Group Guide to catching a cab...

Description of Vehicle Hire(with driver) Services provided in London...

LICENSED TAXI (London): Hail on the street or call a operator such as 'Dial-a-cab' for one of these. Purpose built vehicle with the world's most professional taxi drivers. At school for up to 3 years to learn 'The Knowledge' of London, these guys know their stuff and are exactly what you need in a complicated City like London. Although like a fish out of water further afield, all licensed taxi drivers in the capital must have an in depth knowledge of the topography of London, 'The Knowledge'. For would be All London or 'Green Badge' holders, this means that they need to have a detailed knowledge of London within a six mile radius of Charing Cross (near Trafalgar Square). This is based on 320 routes (or 'runs') as set out in the Public Carriage Office's 'Blue Book'. They also need to know the places of interest and important landmarks.

MINICABS (UK wide): Sometimes alot cheaper than a Taxi, a minicab must be booked in advance through a licensed operator. Booking through a driver will make any insurance held VOID! They will come asap, and the driver may not always know the way to your destination without consulting a map. This is normal and minicab drivers can be seen as 'still learning'. Vehicles are not always the best on the market! Always get a fare quotation when booking.

CHAUFFEUR/PRIVATE HIRE (London): Under the same rules and regulation as MINICABS, but consider themselves to be the professional side of the Private Hire business. Chauffeurs are not always cheap, but most trading under the description of Private Hire are. Prices can vary alot between individual companies. Cars are normally a much better grade than those used by MINICAB companies. Hunt around for the best prices! These guys are the ones for Long Distance, or Airport, Cruiseport and Intercity journeys. Also they are great for day hire with a driver. Drivers in this side of the business normally have a good knowledge of London and a general knowledge of the rest of the UK. Watch out for MINICABS companies who also dabble in this business - often resulting in unreliable service or unsuitable vehicles!

To get a Licensed Taxi on the street,

1. Look for one of our famous black cab vehicles driving towards you with an orange light lit up (on the front/roof). (Not lit lamp means not working so don't even try!)
2. Stand by the kerb/sidewalks edge (Watching other traffic doesn't hit you) and raise your arm waving slightly. If you can whistle this also works sometimes.
3. Once stopped, note the driver is wearing a badge wrapped in leather around his neck, This has his driver number on it. His vehicle number is on the rear of the vehicle.
3. Tell the driver where you are going and get in, making sure the driver resets the meter. Otherwise an overcharge can occur. Nothing is to be added the fare shown on the meter!
4. Your driver is fully trained and will know everywhere in Central London, so no direction will be necessary!
5. The fares is totaled on the meter by the driver at journeys end.
6. Pay the driver. 10-15%tip is normal (if he was friendly etc.)
7. For complaints about Taxis see below.
8. It is illegal to try to evade your fare and you could be prosecuted for trying to. Make sure you have enough money to pay the driver before you begin your journey otherwise it may end at the Police station or in court!

To make an advance booking for a Minicab/Chauffeur/Private Hire...

1. Ask your hotel for a Licensed Taxi/Private Hire Operator/Minicab number or card.
2. Phone the number and give them your name, pickup point and time, destination and quantity of passengers. Also ask how long it takes and for their 'PCO' license number.
3. Always ask the fare price. (Minicab/Private Hire are not metered and do over charge occasionally).
4. Only get into a car once the driver has given you your correct name - do not prompt him and give him clues - he can always phone his office and find out!
5. Once approaching the car, check it looks ok, if not phone the office and ask for another vehicle. (Use your safety instinct not your taste in cars please).
6. Make sure you have the drivers name and if possible his driver number.
7. The driver should know the fare quoted. Pay the driver. 10-15%tip is normal (if he was friendly etc.)
8. If the driver asks for more than £1-£2 extra - question him why. If not satisfied ask him to contact his office to explain the price difference. If he still insists, pay him but take his driver number or name and complain by phone to the operator. If this doesn't get required result you can complain as below...
9. It is illegal to try to evade your fare and you could be prosecuted for trying to. Make sure you have enough money to pay the driver before you begin your journey otherwise it may end at the Police station or in court!

Complaints about Taxis and Private Hire (Minicabs).
(For minicabs, you must first complain to the operator that you booked the journey with. If this is unsatisfactory then...)
1. Have date and time of journey, operator, driver license details and a contact number.
2. Write your complaint and send to... 'Taxi Complaint' or 'Private Hire Complaint' 15 Penton Street, London N1.
3. The Public Carriage Office will investigate your complaint and reply with their findings, and action taking in regards to your complaint.

Back to the Top