Know before you go (Britain)

Going to Britain

1.  Money
There are one hundred pence (100p) in a pound. People sometimes say 'p' instead of 'pence'. For example: 'seventy p'. Not all banks change foreign money, but we can usually find at least one bank in each town that will do so.

2.  Where to stay
Hotels are very expensive in Britain. A cheaper solution is a 'bed and breakfast' in someone's home. Information centre or tourist offices can help you to find these. There are also youth hostels and campsites in many places.

3.  Eating out
Restaurants are often expensive, and you cannot be sure that the food will be good. But Indian and Chinese restaurants usually serve good meals at lower prices. Pubs sometimes do good inexpensive food. Fast food shops - Fish and Chip shops, Hamburger shops - are cheap, but the food is not always very good.

4.  Getting around
Trains are fairly good in Britain. If you are under 24 or over 65, or if you are travelling with your family, ask about "railcards" for cheaper fares on the train. There are also coaches (long-distance buses) between some towns and cities. These are cheaper than trains. In towns and cities, there are usually buses and in London there is also an underground. But the underground is not easy to use, so you should learn about it before you use it.

5.  Medical care
If you get ill or have an accident while you are in Britain, and you must be treated before you return home, you can get free medical care. Your country may have an agreement with Britain for other medical care, too; ask at the British embassy or consulate before you leave. You may need a special paper from your country's national health service. If your country does not have an agreement with Britain, you may want to take out health insurance for your journey.