United Kingdom: Travel Guide
Discover the greatness of the United Kingdom: Between History, Culture and Adventure.
Discover the greatness of the United Kingdom: Between History, Culture and Adventure.
Immerse yourself in the rich history, cultural diversity and stunning landscapes of the UK. From majestic castles to the lively streets of its cities, this destination will captivate you at every stage of your journey.
English
POUND STERLING (GBP)
67M INHABITANTS
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The UK's climate is influenced by its northern latitudes and island location. Expect changing seasons, from mild winters to moderate summers. Be prepared with appropriate clothing to take advantage of all facets of this varied climate.
Immerse yourself in the fascinating gastronomic universe of the United Kingdom, where ancestral culinary traditions blend harmoniously with daring modern experimentation. From traditional pubs serving comfort food to Michelin-starred restaurants offering innovative creations, the UK food scene is a taste experience in its own right.
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The London Underground, colloquially known as "the Tube", is one of the oldest and most iconic public transport systems in the world. It covers a wide area of the British capital, facilitating quick travel between neighborhoods and major attractions. With different colorful lines, the metro is not only efficient, but also an experience in itself, with its history and unique design.
The UK rail network is well developed, making it a popular mode of transport for traveling between cities and regions. High-speed trains connect major cities, providing a quick alternative to domestic flights. Train tickets can be booked in advance online, and services often offer conveniences such as onboard Wi-Fi.
Local and national buses are a convenient option for exploring UK towns and regions. Bus networks generally cover areas less served by other modes of transport, allowing you to discover less touristy neighborhoods and enjoy panoramic views. Buses are an economical and comfortable option for local travel.
If you want to explore the more remote parts of the UK, car hire offers maximum flexibility. Well-maintained roads take you through varied landscapes, from verdant countryside to dramatic coastlines. Be sure to familiarize yourself with local driving rules and plan for possible tolls and parking fees.
Major UK cities, such as London, offer self-service bike hire services, providing an eco-friendly and cost-effective option for getting around town. Plus, many rural areas offer scenic cycle routes, allowing you to explore the countryside at your own pace.
Find out the budget implications of your trip to the UK, from accommodation expenses to entertainment costs.
Accommodation costs in the UK vary depending on the type of accommodation and the area you are visiting. For budget options like hostels and bed and breakfasts, prices can start at around £20-50 per night. Mid-range hotels have rates ranging from £50 to £150 per night, depending on comfort level and location. High-end hotels and luxury accommodation can cost £150-400 or more per night. Vacation rental options, such as apartments and cottages, also vary in price depending on size and location. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during periods of high tourist demand, to obtain the best rates and accommodation options.
The cost of food in the UK varies depending on the type of meal and location. Eating out can cost £10-20 in budget places, and £20-40 in mid-range establishments. Fast food is around £5-10. Supermarket shopping to cook at home costs around £30-50 a week. Cafes offer drinks at around £2-4, with snacks around £2-5. Prices may vary by region, with London generally being more expensive.
Transport costs in the UK vary depending on the mode of travel and the area you are exploring. The London Underground offers single tickets from £2.40, while fares for intercity trains range from £10 to £100 or more depending on distance and class. Local buses offer single tickets at around £2-3, and car hire can cost an average of £30-60 per day for a budget car. If you prefer bikes, daily self-service bike hire passes cost around £2-5. It is advisable to compare options to find the ones that best suit your itinerary and travel budget.
Entertainment costs in the UK vary depending on the activity chosen. Tourist attractions have entry fees of £5-£20 or more. Shows and cultural events usually cost between £20 and £100. Nights out, like nightclubs, have entrance fees of £5-20. Outdoor activities like hiking can vary, while cinema tickets average between £8 and £15. Costs depend on where and what experience you are looking for.
When traveling to the UK, here is some practical information to keep in mind. The currency used is British Pounds (GBP), and credit cards are widely accepted. Don't forget to bring a suitable UK power socket, which uses 230V voltage. The public transport network, including Tubes, trains and buses, is well developed, offering various options for your displacements. Tips are not always included in bills, but tipping 10-15 % is generally appreciated. Finally, to make the most of your stay, check the opening hours of attractions and consider purchasing tourist cards or passes that may offer discounts and benefits.
UK travel insurance
Travel insurance is particularly important if you plan to travel to the UK.
Although the country is relatively safe for tourists, it is always possible to encounter unforeseen situations such as health problems, lost or stolen luggage, or transport delays.
In such cases, travel insurance can help you resolve the issues quickly and efficiently, without having to bear high costs or additional complications.
Passeport and Visa
To travel to the UK, French citizens need a valid passport. As a member of the European Union, French nationals generally do not need a visa for short-term tourist stays (up to 6 months).
However, following Brexit, from 1 October 2021 travel requires obtaining an electronic travel authorization called 'ETIAS' (European Travel Information and Authorization System) to enter the UK. The ETIAS is a paid online formality, which must be obtained before your departure. Be sure to check up-to-date travel requirements before you depart to avoid any inconvenience upon arrival.
Health and vaccinations
For a trip to the United Kingdom, it is generally not necessary to be vaccinated against specific diseases. Sanitary conditions in the UK are good and hygiene standards are high. French travelers can access emergency medical care through the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), but it is recommended that you take out travel insurance to cover any medical and other unforeseen expenses.
Culture and customs
British culture is steeped in politeness, with courteous greetings and a tradition of tea. The monarchy is respected, and humor often tinged with sarcasm is appreciated. Each nation within the UK has its own customs, and public holidays are celebrated with enthusiasm. It is advisable to respect these traditions to live an enriching and harmonious experience during your stay.
Cash Management
When traveling to the UK, it is important to consider bank charges in order to manage your financial transactions efficiently. The easiest way and the one we recommend is to open an account Revolution Metal.
Here are the advantages of having a Revolut Metal account for your trips
Currency conversion free of charge Revolut enables instant and transparent currency conversions without hidden fees. You can load your Revolut account with your local currency and convert money to Colombian pesos (COP) at the real exchange rate, thus avoiding the costly commissions charged by traditional currency exchange offices.
Use without borders With Revolut, your account is usable worldwide. You can make online and in-store payments, withdraw cash from ATMs, and even use your Revolut card to pay for public transportation and taxis in Colombia. This saves you from carrying large amounts of cash and facilitates your daily transactions.
Security and Control Revolut offers advanced security options to protect your account. You can easily enable and disable your card in real-time through the app if needed. Additionally, the Revolut app allows you to track your expenses in real-time, set spending limits, and receive instant notifications for each transaction, giving you full control over your finances.
Budget and savings Revolut offers budgeting features that help you track your expenses during your trip. You can create budgets for different spending categories such as accommodation, food, and tourist activities. Additionally, you can round up your purchases to save money automatically in a separate savings account.
24/7 Support In case of any issues, Revolut's support team is available 24/7 to assist you. You can contact them through the app or the website for any questions or concerns related to your account or transactions.
In such cases, travel insurance can help you resolve the issues quickly and efficiently, without having to bear high costs or additional complications.
TAILOR-MADE TOUR FOR THE UNITED KINGDOM
You want to use a travel agency to go to the United Kingdom.
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The summer period, from June to August, is often considered the best time to visit England due to the milder climate and longer days. However, spring and fall also offer pleasant temperatures and fewer tourist crowds.
As a French citizen, to enter the UK you will need a valid passport and the ETIAS Electronic Travel Authorization since October 1, 2021.
You will need a valid passport and the ETIAS Electronic Travel Authorization to enter the UK as a French citizen.
England offers a great diversity of landscapes, but regions such as the Cotswolds, the Lake District, the Jurassic Coast and Cornwall are often considered to be among the most beautiful places.
For more affordable fares, consider traveling outside peak tourist season, such as spring and fall.
July and August are the hottest months in England, with average temperatures around 20-25°C.
Destinations like London, Edinburgh, Bath, York and Liverpool are ideal for a week of discovery.
The concept of "most beautiful city" is subjective, but cities like Bath, Oxford, Cambridge and Edinburgh are often considered among the most charming.
The coldest months in England are usually January and February, with average temperatures around 2-7°C.
The south and south-west coasts of England, such as Cornwall, offer pleasant beaches and swimming conditions in summer.
You can get around England using the underground, trains, buses, taxis and even car hire depending on your needs and destination.
The choice of city depends on your preferences. Cities like London, Edinburgh, Manchester, Liverpool and Bristol each offer a unique and diverse experience.
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