Tips for your days in London
Being comfortable and worry-free will give you more pleasant and peaceful days in London.
It is very likely that you will leave the hotel in the morning and only return in the late afternoon. or the night, after all, "you have to make the most of it".
Here are some tips that can avoid unforeseen events and discomfort during your trips around London.
Just arrived?
Two essential things you will need as soon as you set foot in the King's Lands.
1. Plug adapter
2. Oyster Card (transport card) OR Bank Card with the “contactless” option.
Low battery?
You can charge your cell phone while having a drink, lunch or dinner. It is common for pubs and restaurants to have USB sockets and plugs near the tables, but it is important that you have your cable/charger/adapter.
4 seasons in one day
That's right, the four seasons one or more times in the same day. Remember, England is an island, so it's common to have a (cold) breeze.
On cool summer days, light coats and scarves help in the late afternoon.
In winter and on rainy days, waterproof and hooded jackets are always a great option.
Water
Always have water with you, especially in summer when the temperature can reach
at 36°C.
In pubs, ask to fill your bottle with tap water. You can ask without shame, this is very common.
London's water is drinkable.
Seasons in London
Longer days: from 4-5am to 9:30pm*
_ Spring: April/May/June
_ Summer: June/July/August
Shorter days: from 8-9am to 4pm*
_ Autumn: September/October/November
_ Winter: December/January/February/March
*hours vary depending on the season
Comfortable shoes
I always say: more than money, you will spend a lot of shoe soles in London. You will walk much further than you imagine. Sneakers are a good option, they are comfortable and go with everything.
Umbrella or raincoat?
On rainy days, usually with wind too, an umbrella will do little to help you. Consider wearing, or having in your backpack, a good raincoat, anorak or waterproof jacket with a hood.
Money or card?
Since 2020, some stores, cafes and restaurants have started to accept card payments only, but cash continues to be accepted in most places.
Always have cash with you.
Always look back
That's right, look behind you every time you get off the subway, bus, taxi or train and check if you're not forgetting anything (bag, jacket or coat, backpack, shopping, etc.).
This also applies to bars and restaurants.
Pollen
In spring, the level of pollen in the air can be very high, causing allergies and discomfort. If you are sensitive to pollen, always have your allergy medication on hand.
Medicines
Antes de viajar é aconselhável conversar com o seu médico. Muitos medicamentos comuns no Brasil exigem receita em vários países europeus e no Reino Unido (Dipirona é um exemplo).
Traga consigo os remédios de uso contínuo e/ou qualquer medicamento que possa necessitar, sempre na embalagem e acompanhados da receita médica.
Service charge and tips
Since the beginning of 2023 it has become common restaurants and bars add a service charge (between 10% It is 12.5%).
In hotels they have always been common (between 12.5% It is 15%).
Tips are not mandatory, but are always welcome.
