10 london travel mistakes
There is plenty to do and see in London. Please see the 10 travel mistakes that so many travelers make when heading to England.
1. Hoping to Eat at High End Restaurants Without Reservations
London is a bustling city, and it can be challenging to be a walk-in to the popular restaurants. A lot of London's eateries offer reservations in advance, simply by emailing or using an online portal. Take advantage and schedule your time in certain areas of the city for each day.
2. Taking Taxis Instead of the Tube
Pick up an Oyster Card (reloadable Underground $$) and use this to get from place to place when you can. Don't be intimatded by the colorful Tube map that you see everywhere, the Tube is user friendly, and I can help you navigate through understand it. You'll save money by not taking Ubers/Taxis, and you will get out of the typically terrible London traffic.
3. Skipping Museums To Save Money
Quite a few museums in London are absolutely free! So even if you go in for 20 minutes, it is worth it. My favorite is the National Portrait Gallery, I visit King Henry VIII and some of his wives and head out immediately after.
4. Only Eating Fish & Chips
London is an International city. Take the time to enjoy "fresh off the boat" food from all over the world. Most travelers recommend Indian food, and I definitely enjoyed Dishoom over my last visit. But you can get just about anything you can imagine while in London.
5. Over Scheduling Yourself
This city is absolutely huge, and all of the tourist spots are spread out. So take your time and spend a half of a day in each "neighborhood". Break out your time with an afternoon break and heading back out in the evening for dinner. Make sure sure to take your time and enjoy taking your time exploring.
6. Not Knowing the Beefeaters
A visit to the Tower of London is never completed without a tour with the Beefeaters, the Yeomen Warders of Her Majesty's Royal Palace & Fortress the Tower of London. Basically they reside in the Tower of London and do a bunch of stuff, but they do the best guided tours of the Tower. They are a little sassy, and when I was 16 they called me out on not paying attention in front of an entire group. Ever since I definitely pay attention!
7. Street Crossing & What Direction to Look
Driving on the wrong side of the road can get confusing, and knowing which direction on the street to look can be even more confusing. You'll see on sidewalks throughout the city "Look Left" and "Look Right" to help direct you on how to stay safe.
London Boy!
First trip with my now husband!
8. Staying Way Outside of the City
While each neighborhood in London offers something unique, you definitely want to try to stay near the main sights. If you only have 4 days in London, it's typically worth the few extra pounds to not have to take a train into the city. Make the most of every minute you have.
9. Tipping Too Much
Taxis? 10-15% Restaurants? First check for a Service Charge. If there isn't one, 10-15%. Bartenders? You're good with not leaving a tip at all.
10. Not Checking if the London Pass is for You
You'll see advertisements for the London Pass. While it does have a decent price tag to it, it can be worth it if you plan to visit a majority of the top sights in London. I will admit using this during my last trip to London and seeing places that I had not done before (Churchill War Rooms & HMS Belfast).
If you have further questions or are planning a trip to London, feel free to reach out to me! I would love to help you plan a great trip, and above is just a snippet of information that I have to offer regarding trips to London and all over the world.