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experience

The United Kingdom

Birthplace of Shakespeare and the Beatles, the United Kingdom is an eclectic mix of old and new. Consisting of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, this island nation is a multi-faceted destination where cities like London, Belfast and Glasgow share a space with the spectacular landscape of the Highlands, sandstone stacks and twisted woodlands.

Every place has unique characteristics and often its own language. It is an excellent opportunity for travellers to explore four destinations in one trip, each with its distinct culture, history, and breathtaking views.

London, the capital, is the focal point for all visitors. Its mixture of modern architecture, medieval turrets, castles, and multicultural character offers tourists unending possibilities. You will find equally magical cities to explore in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Once you step out of the cities, the countryside is extremely beautiful. Areas like the Lake District, Scottish Highlands and Giants Causeway in Ireland are popular destinations. Whether you explore the country on a travel tour or solo, you will be mesmerised by the postcard-perfect towns, stone villages and medieval skylines on the way.

Wherever you go, you will experience the English off-the-wall humour of this and the thousand different personalities and places that make this nation distinct.

Time zone: UTC + 1

Currency: The British pound is the local currency. It would be best to exchange your currency into pounds before you travel or withdraw cash from a local ATM upon arrival. Mastercard, Visa and American Express are widely accepted, but having some cash at hand is always a good idea.

Language: The official language spoken in the UK is English. However, Welsh is spoken in Wales and Gaelic in parts of Scotland. There are also several regional dialects spoken throughout the country.

Transportation: There are many ways to travel around the UK, depending on your preferences and budget. Buses and trains are an affordable options. You can purchase a rail pass that allows you to travel across the country or purchase individual tickets as you go. The alternative is to fly domestically or rent a car. Many tour companies also offer guided tours around the UK.

Cuisine: London is the gastronomic capital of England, offering a diverse culinary range from upscale dining, world cuisine and indie venues mixed with chain restaurants and generic coffee shops. Beyond the capital, local pubs, restaurants and cafes in towns and villages across the country serve traditional dishes, locally brewed ales and plenty of cuppas (tea).

Safety: The UK is a safe tourist destination, but it is always adviseable to take basic precautions like locking your doors and windows, keeping valuables safe and being aware of your surroundings.

Tipping: It is customary to leave 10 to 15% of the bill as a tip when eating out if no service charge is added to your bill. It is polite to tip hotel porters and round up your taxi fare for black cabs and licensed minicabs.

Social: Casual wear is widely acceptable in the UK. However, Brits expect decent manners and respect for the local culture and traditions. When meeting someone for the first time, a handshake is customary.

What to See
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The United Kingdom is a treasure trove of tourist attractions and hotspots. You can start your journey in London, the capital city, where you can explore Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, and Big Ben.

From there, head over to Stonehenge, a prehistoric monument shrouded in mystery and intrigue. For fans of literature, visiting the Lake District is a must. You can follow in the footsteps of world-famous poets such as William Wordsworth by exploring the region’s breathtaking scenery. Wales is another great destination, with its rugged coastline, green hillsides, and picturesque villages.

The Scottish Highlands are another must-see attraction, where you can explore the stunning scenery and historic castles and taste the world-renowned whiskey. Finally, no visit to the UK would be complete without experiencing the vibrant culture of Northern Ireland, including the Giant’s Causeway and the Titanic Museum.

What to Taste & Smell
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The unmistakable fragrance of Classic ‘British’ meals, such as roasts, fills the air in traditional pub kitchens, along with the aroma of simmering stews and soups made with fresh vegetables and herbs. But the range of international cuisines is unparalleled, especially in larger towns and cities.

For those seeking a more savoury scent, Indian restaurants, in particular, have overtaken those in their homeland for quality and choice. Seafood is also a staple of the UK diet, with the scent of fish and chips sprinkled with vinegar wafting from street vendors and seaside cafes.

And for those with a sweet tooth, freshly brewed tea paired with the sweet and delicate flavour of freshly baked scones or Scottish shortbread is a must.

What to Hear
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In the UK, there is a sound for every occasion, and each sound is so unique that you can almost hear where you are without looking.

In London, the clang of Big Ben marks the hour, while the flutter of pigeons marks your arrival in Trafalgar Square. Scotland welcomes you with the distinct sounds of the bagpipes, while Wales is famous for its traditional Welsh folk music and the haunting tones of the male voice choir.

But the dialects themselves have a tonality that sets each area apart from the next. Southern English dialects are often referred to as “BBC English”. In the English Midlands, including the cities of Birmingham, Leicester, and Nottingham, accents tend to be more neutral in tone. In contrast, Northern English accents are known for their distinctive twang and are often associated with cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Newcastle. In the north, expect to hear a lot of unique vocabularies, such as “wee,” often used in Scotland.

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The United Kingdom
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