Australia

Australia immediately conjures images of the Sydney Opera House, the Great Barrier Reef, big-wave surfing, miles of Outback and a rather strange, and endearing, assortment of animals. While the country’s main cities offer charm, glamour, unique festivals, a well-preserved historical heritage, fabulous beaches and fun events, it’s also a land of immense contrast and captivating nature. The nation offers something for just about everyone – from water lovers, desert wanderers and canyon climbers, to arts and culture buffs, historians, and foodies. The country’s vast size makes it almost impossible to take it all in during a single visit, but you can pick and choose a perfect holiday according to your personal preferences.


Banking and Currency

Currency 

Local currency: Australian Dollar 
Symbol: $ 
ISO code: AUD 
Subunit: Cent 
Banknotes: $5, $10, $20, $50, $100 
Coins: 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, $1, $2 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Yes 
Diner’s club: Yes 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM 
Weekends: Closed 
Public Holidays: Yes 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 


Travel, Transport and Getting Around

Air: 

Main airlines: Qantas, Virgin Australia 
International Airports: Sydney Airport, Melbourne Airport, Brisbane Airport 
Domestic Airports: Perth Airport, Adelaide Airport, Cairns Airport 

Road: 

Driving on the: Left 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Yes, in rural areas 
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: Yes 

Bus: 

Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 

Rail: 

Railway system: Yes 
Subway System: No 

Water: 

Ferries: Yes 
Water taxis: Yes 
Leisure cruises: Yes 


Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice

Food and water safety: 

Can you drink the tap water: Yes 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: 

Australian cuisine is diverse, influenced by Aboriginal, European, Asian, and Middle Eastern cultures. Highlights include seafood like barramundi and prawns, BBQ (barbecue), meat pies, Vegemite, and ANZAC biscuits.

Drinks: Australian wines, craft beers,rum and flat whites. 

Tipping: Optional, 10% if service is exceptional 


Climate and Weather

Annual rainfall: Varies by region 
Average temperature: Varies by region 

Summer: 

Average highs: 25-30°C 
Average lows: 15-20°C 

Winter: 

Average highs: 15-20°C 
Average lows: 5-10°C 

Best time to visit: 

The best time to visit Australia depends on the region. Generally, spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer mild weather and fewer crowds. 


Clothing and Dress Recommendations

Spring and Summer 

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: Yes 

Winter and Autumn 

Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes 

General 

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 


Internet Availability

Internet cafes: Yes
Accommodation options: Yes 
Restaurants: Yes 
Cafes: Yes 
Shopping malls: Yes 
Public parks: Yes 
Libraries: Yes 


Electricity and Plug Standards

Plug Type: Type I 
Voltage (V): 230V 
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50Hz 

*A Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances. 


Singapore

Located on the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula in Southeast Asia, this unique city-state consists of mainland Singapore as well as numerous smaller islands covering a total area of about 640 square kilometres. With its strong Chinese, Malay, Indian and western influences, this metropolis offers a dazzling melting pot of diverse cultures, exotic cuisine and a range of architectural styles. This multicultural population has resulted in a number of national cultural districts, such as Chinatown with its impressive Hindu shrines and temples adorned with marigold garlands. These pockets of traditional culture stand in stark contrast to the rows of glitzy state-of-the-art malls and futuristic skyscrapers. With all of this variety on offer, it is easy to see why famous natural historian William Hornaday described this remarkable city as 'the handiest and most marvellous city [he] ever saw'.


Banking and Currency

Currency 

Local currency: Singapore Dollar 
Symbol: $ 
ISO code: SGD 
Subunit: Cent 
Banknotes: $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, $100, $1000 
Coins: 5¢, 10¢, 20¢, 50¢, $1 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Yes 
Diner’s club: Yes 
Banking Hours: Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM 
Weekends: Closed 
Public Holidays: Yes (limited hours) 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 


Travel, Transport and Getting Around

Air: 

Main airlines: Singapore Airlines, Scoot, SilkAir 
International Airports: Singapore Changi Airport 
Domestic Airports: None 

Road: 

Driving on the: Left 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: No 
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: Yes 

Bus: 

Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 

Rail: 

Railway system: Yes 
Subway System: Yes 

Water: 

Ferries: Yes 
Water taxis: Yes 
Leisure cruises: Yes 


Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice

Food and water safety: 

Can you drink the tap water: Yes 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: 

Singaporean cuisine is a blend of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western influences. Signature dishes include Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, chili crab, and satay. The city-state is also renowned for its hawker centers, offering a variety of affordable and delicious street food. 
Drinks: Notable local drinks include tehtarik (pulled tea), kopi (local coffee), and sugarcane juice. 
Tipping: Not expected, but rounding up the bill is appreciated. 


Climate and Weather

Annual rainfall: Approximately 2340 mm 
Average temperature: 27°C 

Summer: 

Average highs: 31°C 
Average lows: 24°C 

Winter: 

Singapore has a tropical climate, so it does not experience distinct winter seasons. 

Best time to visit: 

The best time to visit Singapore is from February to April, during the dry season, to avoid heavy rainfall.


Clothing and Dress Recommendations

Spring and Summer 

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: No 

Winter and Autumn 

Singapore does not have distinct winter and autumn seasons. 

General 

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 


Internet Availability

Internet cafes: No 
Accommodation options: Yes 
Restaurants: Yes 
Cafes: Yes 
Shopping malls: Yes 
Public parks: Yes 
Libraries: Yes


Electricity and Plug Standards

Plug Type: Type G 
Voltage (V): 230V 
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50Hz 

*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances. 


India

Vast, diverse, deeply spiritual and utterly unforgettable, India is unlike anywhere else on earth – a melting pot of ethnicities and religions, a treasure trove of history and culture, and a curious mixture of chaos and serenity. Stretching across more than three million square kilometres, it encompasses a staggering array of landscapes, vistas and environs, and offers unparalleled travel experiences – from the beautiful beaches of Goa, to the compelling craziness of Kolkata, the sacred Ganges river banks of Varanasi, the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas in Kashmir and the ancient, exquisitely crafted temples dotted across the entire country. Not to mention the vibrant, friendly people, and the incredible cuisine.


Banking and Currency

Currency 

Local currency: Indian Rupee 
Symbol: ₹ 
ISO code: INR 
Subunit: Paisa 
Banknotes: ₹1, ₹2, ₹5, ₹10, ₹20, ₹50, ₹100, ₹200, ₹500, ₹2000 
Coins: ₹1, ₹2, ₹5, ₹10 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Limited acceptance 
Diner’s club: Limited acceptance 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM 
Weekends: Limited hours or closed 
Public Holidays: Yes (Varies, typically reduced hours) 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 


Travel, Transport and Getting Around

Air: 
Main airlines: Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, Vistara 
International Airports: Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM), Kempegowda International Airport (BLR), and others 
Domestic Airports: Numerous 

Road: 
Driving on the: Left 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Limited 
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: Yes 

Bus: 
Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 

Rail: 
Railway system: Extensive 
Subway System: Limited (in select cities) 

Water: 
Ferries: Limited 
Water taxis: Limited 
Leisure cruises: Limited 


Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice

Food and water safety: 
Can you drink the tap water: No 
Fresh fruit and veg: Wash thoroughly or peel 
Ice: Use commercially produced ice 
Meat: Ensure it's well-cooked 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: Indian cuisine is diverse and varies greatly by region. Highlights include dishes like biryani, curry, dosa, chaat, and tandoori specialties. Vegetarian options are plentiful. 

Drinks: Chai, lassi, sugarcane juice, and various regional beverages like coconut water. Alcoholic beverages are available, with beer and whiskey being popular choices. 

Tipping: Generally 5-10% in restaurants; tipping for other services is discretionary. 


Climate and Weather

Annual rainfall: Varies greatly by region 
Average temperature: Varies greatly by region 

Summer: 
Average highs: 25-45°C 
Average lows: 20-30°C 

Winter: 
Average highs: 10-25°C 
Average lows: 5-15°C 

Best time to visit: The best time to visit India depends on the region and your preferences. Generally, the winter months from October to March offer milder temperatures and are ideal for exploring most parts of the country. 


Clothing and Dress Recommendations

Spring and Summer 
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: No 

Winter and Autumn 
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No 

General 
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 


Internet Availability

Internet cafes: Limited 
Accommodation options: Yes 
Restaurants: Yes 
Cafes: Yes 
Shopping malls: Yes 
Public parks: Limited 
Libraries: Limited 


Electricity and Plug Standards

Plug Type: Type C, Type D, Type M 
Voltage (V): 230 
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50 

*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances. 


Oman

One of the Middle East’s mellowest and most sublime destinations, Oman has endless charms to offer the visitor: a rich heritage reflected in its ancient mosques and historical sites, incredible dive sites, beautiful sandy beaches and an exotic Arabian culture. It is set on the Arabian Peninsula, featuring a magnificent landscape of vast desert, endless coastlines and undulating dunes. Highlights include: the elegant, evocative capital of Muscat; the friendly port town of Sur; the charming mountain settlement of Misfat Al Abryeen; the prehistoric tombs bordering the Western Hajar; diving around the Daymaniyat Islands Marine Reserve; and watching hundreds of green turtles emerging from the ocean at Ras Al Jinz to lay eggs.


Banking and Currency

Currency 

Local currency: Omani Rial 
Symbol: ر.ع. 
ISO code: OMR 
Subunit: Baisa 
Banknotes: 1, 5, 10, 20, 50 Rial 
Coins: 5, 10, 25, 50, 100 Baisa 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Yes 
Diner’s club: No 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM 
Weekends: Closed 
Public Holidays: Yes 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 


Travel, Transport and Getting Around

Air: 

Main airlines: Oman Air, SalamAir 
International Airports: Muscat International Airport 
Domestic Airports: Salalah Airport, Sohar Airport 

Road: 

Driving on the: Right 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Limited 
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: Yes 

Bus: 

Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Limited 

Rail: 

Railway system: No 
Subway System: No 

Water: 

Ferries: No 
Water taxis: Yes 
Leisure cruises: Yes 


Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice

Food and water safety: 

Can you drink the tap water: No 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: 

Omani cuisine is rich in flavors influenced by Arabic, Persian, Indian, and African cultures. Staple foods include rice, fish, and meat dishes like shuwa (slow-cooked lamb or goat). Dates and coffee hold cultural significance. Popular drinks include tea and laban (buttermilk). 
Tipping: 10% 


Climate and Weather

Annual rainfall: Varies by region 
Average temperature: 25°C 

Summer: 

Average highs: 35°C 
Average lows: 25°C 

Winter: 

Average highs: 25°C 
Average lows: 15°C 

Best time to visit: 

The best time to visit Oman is during the winter months (November to March) when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. 


Clothing and Dress Recommendations

Spring and Summer 

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: No 

Winter and Autumn 

Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No 

General 

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 


Internet Availability

Internet cafes: Limited 
Accommodation options: Yes 
Restaurants: Yes 
Cafes: Yes 
Shopping malls: Yes 
Public parks: Yes 
Libraries: Limited 


Electricity and Plug Standards

Plug Type: Type G 
Voltage (V): 240V 
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50Hz 

*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances. 


Egypt

Egypt is one of Africa’s major tourist destinations, with the main drawcards being the Red Sea, Egyptology and the Nile. The Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx and the Valley of the Kings need no introduction in the world of antiquity, the sun-soaked beaches of the Red Sea with their scuba diving are a massive attraction to those from colder climes, and a cruise on the Nile floods back memories of Cleopatra. Aside from these famous attractions, this desert country houses ancient ruins and mystical Oases, and in Cairo, ancient cultures remain, blending with the very modern. Egypt offers so much more than its world-famous pyramids. Visitors can enjoy desert trekking, scuba diving, golfing, fishing, bird watching or floating along the Red Sea.


Banking and Currency

Currency:  
Local currency: Egyptian Pound  
Symbol: LE or E€ 
ISO code: EGP 
Central bank: Central Bank of Egypt  
Subunit: Paistres 
Banknotes: LE 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 1; P50, P25 
Coins: P25, P20, P10, P5 

Banking: 
Card Transactions: Yes  
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Ye 
Diner’s club: Yes 
 
Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: Mondays - Thursdays 08h30 - 14h00 
Weekends: Sundays 08h30 - 14h00 
Public Holidays: No 
Foreign exchange services: Yes, during the day and in the evenings 18h00 - 21h00 
 


Travel, Transport and Getting Around

Air:  
Main airlines: EgyptAir 
International Airports: Cairo International Airport, Luxor International Airport, Aswan International Airport, Hurghada International Airport, Sharm El Sheikh International Airport, Marsa Alam International Airport 

Road: 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Yes 
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
Uber available: Yes 
 
Bus: 
Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 
 
Rail: 
Railway system: Yes 
Subway System: No 
 
Water: 
Ferries: Yes 
Water taxis: Yes 
Leisure cruises: Yes 


Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice

Food and water safety:  
Can you drink the tap water: No 
Fresh fruit and veg: No 
Ice: No 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: No 

Local cuisine: Blending African, Middle-Eastern and Mediterranean influences, Egyptian food is fragrant and usually quite healthy, featuring lots of vegetables and spices. Specialties include dolmades, Molokhiya, Ful Medales, bush okra stew, and many more. 

Drinks: 

Zibib - made with aniseed 

Aswanli – a dark beer made in the town of the same name  

Karkaday – red drink made with hibiscus flowers 


Tipping: 10 - 12% tip is added to the bill, however it is customary to add another 5% on top of that. 


Climate and Weather

Annual rainfall: 20 mm - 200 mm  
Average temperature: Coastal regions: 14°C - 30°C; Inland / desert: 7°C at night to 43°C during the day   
 
Summer:
 
Average in highs: 32°C 
Average in lows: 23 °C 

Winter: 
Average in highs: 17°C 
Average in lows: 9.5°C 
 
Best time to visit: Between February and April, or October to November, the weather is mild to warm, with stunning blue skies. Winds sweeping sand across the area can be unpleasant in summer, and in winter, rain and fog may reduce your visibility of the sights.  


Clothing and Dress Recommendations

Spring and Summer 
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: Yes 
 
Winter and Autumn
 
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Yes 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No 
 
General 
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 
 

 


Internet Availability

Internet cafes: Yes 
Accommodation options: Yes 
Restaurants: Yes 
Cafes: Yes 
Shopping malls: Yes 
Public parks: No 
Libraries: In cities  


Electricity and Plug Standards

Plug Type: C/F 
Voltage (V): 220 
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50 

*A Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances. 


Italy

It is easy to understand why Italy is one of the world’s most celebrated tourist destinations. This is a country that truly does have it all: exquisite landscapes, an abundance of art and architectural treasures, world renowned museums and a national obsession with decadent food and fine wine. Not to mention the country’s sun-kissed olive groves, glacial lakes, fiery volcanoes and snow capped peaks. Dive the clear green waters of the Mediterranean, browse the market stalls in Naples or experience the diverse wildlife inhabiting the country’s national parks. And if you find the vast range of choices overwhelming, take some advice from the locals: sit back, relax and take a moment to indulge in the “bella vita” (the good life). As they say: when in Rome!


Banking and Currency

Currency 

Local currency: Euro 
Symbol: € 
ISO code: EUR 
Subunit: Cent 
Banknotes: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, €500 
Coins: 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, €1, €2 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Yes 
Diner’s club: Yes 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 1:30 PM and 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM 
Weekends: Closed 
Public Holidays: Yes (Limited hours) 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 


Travel, Transport and Getting Around

Air: 

Main airlines: Alitalia, Ryanair, EasyJet 
International Airports: Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (Rome), Malpensa Airport (Milan), Marco Polo Airport (Venice) 
Domestic Airports: Ciampino Airport (Rome), Bergamo Airport (Milan) 

Road: 

Driving on the: Right 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: No 
Valid International Driver's License needed: No 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: Yes 

Bus: 

Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 

Rail: 

Railway system: Yes 
Subway System: Yes 

Water: 

Ferries: Yes 
Water taxis: Yes 
Leisure cruises: Yes 


Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice

Food and water safety: 

Can you drink the tap water: Yes 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: 

Italian cuisine is celebrated globally for its diversity and flavors. From pasta dishes like spaghetti carbonara and lasagna to pizzas with various toppings, Italian food delights the palate. Risotto, gnocchi, and antipasti are also popular. Italy is renowned for its wine, with varieties like Chianti and Barolo. Limoncello, grappa, and espresso are notable local drinks. 
Tipping: Not expected, but rounding up the bill is appreciated. 


Climate and Weather

Annual rainfall: Varies by region 

Average temperature: Varies by region 

Summer: 

Average highs: 25°C - 30°C 
Average lows: 15°C - 20°C 

Winter: 

Average highs: 8°C - 15°C 
Average lows: 0°C - 5°C 

Best time to visit: 

The best time to visit Italy is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and crowds are fewer. 


Clothing and Dress Recommendations

Spring and Summer 

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: No 

Winter and Autumn 

Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes 

General 

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 


Internet Availability

Internet cafes: No 
Accommodation options: Yes 
Restaurants: Yes 
Cafes: Yes 
Shopping malls: Yes 
Public parks: Yes 
Libraries: Yes 


Electricity and Plug Standards

Plug Type: Type C, Type F 
Voltage (V): 230V 
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50Hz 

*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.


United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is a constitutional monarchy offering four fascinating countries all rolled into one easily accessible and remarkably diverse island nation. Comprised of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, the UK contains more heritage, per square mile, than any other nation in the world. It is also blessed with vast, sprawling areas of picturesque countryside, long stretches of rugged coastline, and some of most the dynamic, multicultural cities in the world. With the quaint medieval villages of the Cotswolds, the impressive architecture of the Canterbury Cathedral, the endless cultural delights of London and Edinburgh, and the hauntingly beautiful landscapes of Wales and Northern Ireland, the UK offers enough variety to satisfy travellers from all walks of life. Whether you are keen to explore massive national parks such as the Yorkshire Dales or Dartmoor, the charming seaside resorts of Blackpool and Bournemouth, or the unlimited supply of wonderful British pubs, there is plenty to keep you blissfully engaged during your time in this extraordinarily diverse nation.


Banking and Currency

Currency 

The currency of the United Kingdom is the Pound (GBP; symbol £) = 100 pence. Notes are in denominations of £50, £20, £10 and £5. Additional banknotes issued by Scottish banks (including £1 notes) are accepted in all parts of the UK, although some smaller shops outside Scotland may prefer English banknotes. Coins are in denominations of £2 and £1, and 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 pence.

Banking

Banking hours: Monday--Friday 09h30-16h30 

American Express, MasterCard and Visa are all widely accepted. Cash can be obtained from a multitude of ATMs available across the country.

Travellers' cheques are widely accepted. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take traveller's cheques in Pounds Sterling.


Travel, Transport and Getting Around

Flying between cities within the United Kingdom is both easy and accessible. British Airways operates a shuttle service from London to Edinburgh, Glasgow, Manchester and Newcastle among other cities. Other domestic operators include Flybe, EasyJet and Ryanair. Most domestic flights take between one and one and a half hours. 

There are trunk roads linking all major towns and cities in the UK. Care hire is available in towns and cities across the UK from all the major companies. Taxi’s are widely available in towns and cities. You can pick them up at taxi ranks (often outside railway stations and in city centres), hail them in the street, or book them by phone.

The UK is served by an excellent network of railways. Intercity lines provide fast services between London and major cities, and there are services to the southeast and to major cities in the Midlands, the north and south Wales and between Edinburgh and Glasgow. Some rural areas are less well-served (eg the north coast of the west country, parts of East Anglia, Northern Ireland, Northumberland and North Yorkshire, parts of inland Wales, and southern and northern Scotland), although local rail services are generally fairly comprehensive. 


Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice

Iconic cakes, splendid sandwiches and heart-warming stews all hail from the United Kingdom. Don't miss tea and cake or, for a fancy occasion, try the full-blown afternoon tea, with three-tiered plates of sandwiches, cakes and scones.

Another fine UK institution is breakfast, and although there are plenty of coffee shops selling US-style muffins and bagels, the full-on British breakfast (eggs, bacon, toast, tomatoes) served with a cup of tea can be found in cafés lovingly called “greasy spoons” or in pubs with an early licence.

In hotels, a service charge of 10 to 12% is usual, which may be added to the bill. For restaurants, 10 to 15% is standard; if this has already been added to the bill, a further tip is not required. 


Climate and Weather

There is never a bad time to visit the United Kingdom, but for the most reliable weather come during the summer months (June-August) when the days are long and warm. Temperatures have been known on occasion to nudge 30 degrees Celcius C, sometimes higher, but the threat of rain is ever present - pack waterproofs as well as the sunscreen. The southeast of England is generally sunnier and warmer than the rest of the United Kingdom, but resorts along the coast get crowded during the summer.

The United Kingdom is arguably at its most beautiful during the autumn months (September-November), when rural landscapes take on brown, red and pink hues as the leaves lose their pigment. Scotland and the north of England bear the brunt of winter (November-March), but snow occasionally blankets much of the United Kingdom bringing with it travel chaos.


Clothing and Dress Recommendations

Warm clothing is advisable at all times and is essential for any visit to the upland areas. Waterproof clothing is advised throughout the year. 


Internet Availability

Most hotels, restaurants and public buildings offer Wi-Fi, although this may be less likely in more rural areas. The City of London now has free Wi-Fi covering 95% of the Square Mile, whilst London Underground now offers Wi-Fi at stations across the network. There are internet cafés and centres in most urban areas. Some multimedia phone booths, often located at railway stations and airports, offer touchscreen access.


Electricity and Plug Standards

Electrical sockets in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland are Type G (BS-1363)  If your appliance's plug doesn't match the shape of these sockets, you will need a travel plug adapter in order to plug in. Travel plug adapters simply change the shape of your appliance's plug to match whatever type of socket you need to plug into. If it's crucial to be able to plug in no matter what, bring an adapter for all types.

Electrical sockets in the United Kingdom usually supply electricity at 240 volts AC / 50 Hz frequency. If you're plugging in an appliance that was built for this  electrical input, or an appliance that is compatible with multiple voltages, then an adapter is all you need. If your appliance isn’t compatible with 240 volts, a voltage converter will be necessary.


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