United Kingdom Guide

Know Before You Go...®

The United Kingdom is a sovereign country located off the northwest coast of continental Europe. It is made up of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Each country has its own unique history, culture, and traditions, but together they form a diverse and dynamic nation. Scotland, situated in the northernmost part of the UK, is known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich heritage, and vibrant cities. From the bustling streets of London to the rugged highlands of Scotland, the United Kingdom offers a fascinating blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication.

Why United Kingdom?

The UK is home to the world's oldest amusement park, Blackgang Chine.
The UK is home to the world's smallest police station, located in Ballycastle, Northern Ireland.
The UK was the first country to issue postage stamps, in 1840.
The UK is home to the world's longest zip line, located in Wales.
The UK is home to the highest density of castles in the world.

History

A castle fit for a kingRakesh Sarhawan

Transportation on United Kingdom

Getting to United Kingdom and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

Valid Passport: Ensure it’s valid for at least 3 months beyond departure.
Visa: Check UK Ministry of Foreign Affairs for visa requirements based on nationality.
Proof of Accommodation: Have confirmation of hotel or lodging.
Proof of Funds: Be ready to show you can cover your stay (bank statements or sponsorship letter).
Return Ticket: Show onward travel plans.
Travel Insurance: Recommended for health coverage.
Arrival Form: Complete if required.
COVID-19 Documents: Check latest travel advisories and COVID-19 requirements from reliable sources.

Departure Tax

No specific departure tax in the UK for American citizens; the UK typically includes departure taxes in airline ticket prices, applying to all passengers, to fund airport services. Best to check with airline or airport website for any updates.

Driving

Drive on the left side of the road.
Adhere to speed limits: 30 mph in urban areas, 60 mph on single carriageways, 70 mph on dual carriageways and motorways.
Seat belts are mandatory for all occupants.
Use child safety seats for young passengers.
Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited unless you have a hands-free system.
Overtake on the right; keep to the left unless overtaking.
Yield to traffic on your right at roundabouts.
In case of an emergency, call 999 and familiarize yourself with emergency service numbers.
Follow specific rules for congestion charging zones in some cities, like London.
Be aware of toll roads, bridges, and tunnels with varying payment methods.
Keep left when using slip roads to enter or exit a motorway.

United Kingdom Weddings and Honeymoons

Vacationers don’t just stay in United Kingdom villas - they come to paradise to get married and celebrate their honeymoons!

See our favorite villas for weddings.

Know Before You Go...® - United Kingdom Travel Tips

Before making their way to United Kingdom villas, vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in United Kingdom even more relaxing.

Capital:

1 wordLondon

Population:

201967 million

Size:

2021unknown

Electric Current:

220/240

Official Language:

The official language spoken in the United Kingdom is English, with several regional dialects. However, there are also several minority languages spoken, such as Welsh, Scottish Gaelic, and Irish. These languages are considered secondary and are mostly sp

Currency:

The official currency of the United Kingdom is the British Pound (GBP), commonly referred to as the pound sterling. It is divided into 100 pence. The pound is one of the oldest currencies in the world and holds strong value in the global market. In addition to the pound, the Euro (EUR) is also accepted as a form of payment in some areas of the UK, particularly in regions with high tourist traffic such as London. However, it is not widely accepted and it is recommended to have pounds on hand for transactions. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in the UK, especially in urban areas. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted cards, followed by American Express and Discover. Contactless payment methods, such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, are also becoming increasingly popular. ATMs (or cash machines) can be found throughout the UK, making it convenient to withdraw pounds using a debit or credit card. However, it is important to check with your bank beforehand for po

Tipping and Taxes:

Tipping and taxes in the United Kingdom are important aspects of the country's economy and culture. Tipping, also known as gratuity, is a voluntary payment given to service providers as a way of showing appreciation for their services. Taxes, on the other hand, are compulsory payments imposed by the government on individuals and businesses to fund public services and programs. In the UK, tipping is not mandatory, but it is expected in certain service industries such as restaurants, hotels, and taxis. The general rule of thumb is to tip 10-15% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service. However, some establishments may add a service charge to the bill, which eliminates the need for an additional tip. It is important to note that tipping in cash is preferred over using a credit or debit card. Taxes in the UK are collected by Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC). The main types of taxes include income tax, value-added tax (VAT), and National Insurance contributions.

Dress Code:

The dress code in the United Kingdom is typically formal or business casual, with a focus on modesty and appropriate attire for the occasion.

Topography:

The United Kingdom has a varied topography, ranging from low-lying coastal plains and rolling hills to rugged mountains and deep valleys.

Telephone:

Country Code: +44 Area Code: 00

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