Useful Information

Currency

British currency is based on a £1 sterling unit, divided into 100 pence (p). The coins have values ranging from 1p to £2. Bank notes range from £5 (blue), £10 (brown), £20 (purple) and £50 (red). The £50 notes are uncommon, and if you're not collecting them from a bank, they should be avoided. Many retail outlets now accept Euros.

Rush Hour

The rush hours are approximately from 8am - 9.30am and 5pm - 7pm Mon - Fri. Unlike some cities, London does not become completely choked but the situation is getting so, since shopping is now a seven day a week activity.

Customs and Etiquette

The British are generally a tolerant people and is a very cosmopolitan city, so visitors are unlikely to offend by tripping up on a matter of etiquette. One important custom is 'queueing'. The British queue for everything and it is advisable to observe this custom and wait your turn in order to avoid a verbal attack.

Telephone

If you are using the phone in the london areayou do not need to dial the 020 prefix - just the last eight (8) digits. Most telephone boxes accept UK coinage from 10p upwards. You will also find 'card phones' which can be more convenient, especially for long distance and overseas. Phone cards can be bought from Post Offices or newsagents. Do not buy from street traders and check that the packet is sealed.

Banking Hours

Most banks are open from 9.30am - 4.30pm from Monday to Friday except Bank Holidays. Some branches ope on saturday mornings and 24 hr facilities are available at most airports.

Visitor Information

For details of tourist attractions or other events visit the London and Britain Visitors Centre Mon -Fri...9.30am - 6.30pm at             1 Regent St, SW1 or call 020 8846 9000. Visit London operates a comprehensive information service on London Line - 08701 566 366 - with details of the latest exhibitions, West End shows and much more. They also have an informative website at www.visitlondon.com

Transport For London

24 hour information line: 020 7222 1234

To use TFL's text service Cabwise, just text HOME to 60835 to receive one taxi number and two local, licensed mini-cab numbers sent directly to your phone. Texts are charged at 35p per inquiry plus standard network charges