Unlike the rest of the European Union, United Kingdom (UK) has not yet signed up to use the Euro currency (EUR). However, tourists from other EU countries should still be able to purchase items in London using Euros at large stores. Anything you buy will be subject to current exchange rates against the pound.
British currency is the pound sterling (£) which is divided into 100 pence (p). Notes are divided into denominations of £5, £10, £20 and £50, while coins come in smaller denominations of £2, £1, 50p, 20p, 10, 2p and 1p. As a general rule, it's wise to keep a good supply of change as some stores may be reluctant to accept £50 notes for smaller purchases.
For the official exchange rate of the British pound against the Euro, US dollar and other currencies click converter here.
Except for a few excepted territories, citizens of all European countries can enter Britain with just a national passport for a period of up to 3 months to satisfying UK immigration rules or indefinitely if you're from an EU Member State.
Australian, Canadian, US and New Zealand citizens can stay for a period of up to 6 months, providing they have a valid return ticket and can also demonstrate that they have sufficient funds during their stay.
UK visa requirements are more fluid for certain territories and can change according to socio-political factors in your country of origin. Contact your nearest British Embassy before travelling.
To connect to London's emergency services you'll need to dial 999.
An operator will then connect you to the service you require: ambulance, police or fire brigade. Full details of the emergency location, type of incident must be given to ensure a rapid response.
Please remember that 999 is strictly for emergencies only, operators are also able to trace prank callers.
No special health precautions or compulsory vaccinations are required for a trip to London. It's wise though to make a list before leaving (to keep on your person) giving details of your blood type, allergies and any chronic conditions for which you are receiving treatment.
Emergency treatment is provided free by the National Health Service (NHS) , although for non-EU residents, adequate medical coverage is recommended to cover the cost of subsequent medical care (and in some cases repatriation).
Residents of the EU, Commonwealth and other European countries are entitled to received free NHS treatment. Usually all that is needed is a form to confirm that reciprocal arrangements exist in your country or, failing that, proof of nationality.
The cost of insuring yourself against accident, theft, loss or delay is comparatively small. Travel agents almost always try to shift their own policies, but while most provide adequate cover and are underwritten by well-known and respected insurance companies, claim limits vary so check the extent of cover for each specific part of the policy (for example, some policies won't cover pre-existing medical conditions).
London is gradually improving as a destination for disabled travellers but the city's public transport system can still be problematic for mobility impaired users.
All licensed black cabs now carry a portable ramp to allow for easy access but comfort levels, particularly in older vehicles, can be poor.
The "Tourism For All" National Accessible Accommodation Standardhas three categories of accessibility for hotels. These are:
Category 1 - The hotel is accessible to a wheelchair user travelling independently.
Category 2 - The hotel is accessible to s wheelchair user travelling with assistance.
Category 3 - The hotel is accessible to someone with limited mobility but able to walk a few paces and up a maximum of 3 steps.
