England is an English-speaking country that makes it easy to navigate the city. However, there are some other differences that you should know that will make your trip more enjoyable.
Ordering breakfast can be a challenge if you analyze some terminological differences. Ordering eggs the easy way will give you a blank look. You should ask for “lightly cooked” eggs if you want them easier. If you order ham with your eggs, you will get cold meat style ham. You must order bacon to get fried ham. Also be prepared to get baked beans with your breakfast, as well as French fries. These are the usual accompaniments with a breakfast order.
As you probably know, drivers in England drive on the opposite side of the road from Americans or from most other countries. This is a bit more complicated than one might think. If you are a pedestrian, you must look the other way before crossing. I have sounded a lot of horns when I looked the wrong way and tried to cross. In London, the correct direction to look is written on the sidewalk, which is very helpful.
London taxi drivers are a special bunch. Driving a taxi is a family tradition and many families have several generations behind the wheel. Before one can get a taxi license, one must drive around London for two years on a motorcycle learning the roads. So it goes without saying that London taxi drivers can get you anywhere you want to go and fast.
The British pound is worth twice the value of the US dollar right now. When you spend 5 pounds it is like spending 10 dollars.
Travel data:
There are more traffic fatalities on America’s highways in two weeks than in the air in 10 years.
For international travel, consider purchasing your foreign currency from a US bank before leaving for your trip. You are likely to get a better exchange rate.
Always print your boarding pass on your home computer before leaving for your trip to avoid the line at the airport ticket counter.
On your return trip, use the hotel’s business center to print your boarding pass. Boarding passes can be printed within 24 hours of scheduled departure.
Many airlines have discontinued meal service, especially for short flights. You may want to bring some snacks, like protein bars, to avoid getting hungry.
For long flights, it is always a good idea to bring a few things to occupy your mind. Books, portable DVD players, etc. Time will pass faster.
Airport security is similar around the world. Liquids must fit in a 4 oz plastic bag. You must put the plastic bag in a container at the security door. This should go without saying, but you cannot pass a knife or any other weapon through security. Remove all metal, such as coins, from your pockets. Please have your photo ID and boarding pass ready at the security checkpoint. Shoes must be detached to pass through security, do not bring bottled water or any other liquid.
