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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.