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Keys to the CityFacts & Fundamentals : London
London's latest population figures run just over 7 million, counting the city's 32 boroughs and the independent City of London itself. This area is approximately 610 square miles (1580 sq km). When the metropolitan area (6267 square miles, or 16,231 sq km) is factored in, the population leaps to just shy of 14 million. Weather : LondonAlthough it's not completely without basis, London's reputation for having perennially wet weather and constant pea-soup fog is largely untrue. Dampness is somewhat common, especially during the winter, but mild days are more the rule than the exception. Even so, the temperate capital's four seasons can include often-hot summers and cold winters. As a result, most folks choose to visit during spring, early summer, and fall. Winter temperatures typically reach to the low-30s Fahrenheit (-1° Celsius), and summer temperatures generally reach the mid-70s Fahrenheit (24° Celsius).
Convert temperatures to Fahrenheit. Holidays & Business Hours : London
Business hours vary, depending on what sort of establishment you're discussing. Generally, Sunday is the week's least busy day, so if it's the only time you can visit, call your intended destination beforehand so you're not disappointed. Coming & Going : London
The bulk of travelers coming into London make their approach through one of the city's two main airports. Heathrow handles the greatest number of flights from the US and is the closest airport to the city (15 miles, or 24 km, west). The 15-minute Heathrow Express is a convenient way to reach Paddington Station. Gatwick (27 miles, or 43 km, south) also accommodates a growing proportion of travelers and is easily accessible, thanks to the Gatwick Express, which connects directly to Victoria Station. Making Your Way : London
Since a good portion of tourist destinations lie in the West End, it's easily manageable by walking if you're in town for a short time. If your stay is extended, trust London's well-maintained subway system (the "Tube") and its network of buses to get around. Both are separated into zones, and fares increase as you move outward. However, most travelers stay within Zone 1, which is where the city's most sought-after attractions lie. Tube tickets are only good for the day you buy them, but travelcards offer access for a longer period of time. Maps of the various Underground routes are color-coded and are easily understood with a bit of attention. Do be aware that you'll need your ticket to exit the train as well as to enter, so keep it handy. Also, the Tube doesn't run late-night, so plan for other travel between about 11pm and 5am. News & Views : London
If you're trying to keep abreast of what's happening in London during your stay, Time Out is the most useful publication. It offers a wealth of up-to-date details on restaurants, shows, exhibitions, night clubs, and lots more. For reputable, well-reported news, look to the Guardian, the London Times, and the Daily Telegraph. Quirks & Curiosities : London
It's not really a quirk or a curiosity, but as of July 1, 2007, public smoking is prohibited throughout the UK (England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland). This includes bars, pubs, restaurants, public transportation and stations, and public areas of hotels, although hotels may permit smoking in designated guest rooms. Smoking on patios and other outdoor spaces may be permitted at some establishments. Getting Your Bearings : London
To help you get your bearings in London, don't neglect visitors' centers. They're often an invaluable resource for everything from hotels to theater tickets. The following are some of the best: Necessities - Post Offices : London
Sending or receiving mail in a foreign country can be a bit trying, at least until you figure out the system. To minimize hassles, get assistance from London's main post office: Common Courtesies : London
Although tipping is largely personal, some standards are customarily acceptable. In restaurants, for example, tipping ranges from 10% to 20%, with 15% being typical. Depending on the establishment, the tip may or may not be included on the bill, so make sure to check before you act. The same holds true with hotels, who often tuck gratuities into the tab.
![]() The anticipation, the planning, the adventure... Travel can be intoxicating. Early on, you're not concerned about contingencies or minutiae – you just want to get there and have an unforgettable time. To help your trip go smoothly, 10Best has all the essential information that makes navigating a city that much easier: local publications, holidays, public transport, and basics on everything from tipping to sightseeing passes. In short, we present you with the keys to the city.
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