Ascott The Residence

General Information

Climate

Weather in London is very unpredictable and temperatures are generally mild. Warmest months are July and August with temperatures over 20°C (86°F) while in June and September, temperatures range around 18°C (60°F). Rain averages around 40mm throughout the year.

Clothing

Rain is unpredictable no matter what season so it is good to bring along a jacket or waterproof clothing wherever you go. Winter is cold so bring along clothes that can keep you warm. Cool and casual clothes are suitable for summer. Weather during spring and autumn is also unpredictable so it is good to check first before you travel.

Currency

The Currency used in London is the pound sterling (£). Travellers' cheques and major credit cards are accepted in most shops, restaurants and hotels. There is no restriction on the amount of travellers' cheques changed.

Customs

As long as one is not bringing drugs or weapons into the city, United Kingdom Customs are usually very lenient with tourists. Do note that pet animals entering the UK must have a current import licence and undertake six months quarantine at approved quarantine premises.

Electricity

Electricity is supplied at 240 volts in London.

Emergency Call Numbers

• Police / Ambulance / Fire: 999

Health

It is advisable to have medical insurance when travelling. EU citizens are entitled to free medical care from the National Health Service, but there will be a charge for citizens from other countries. Late night pharmacies, emergency doctors and hospitals are available in London.

Local Area Information

London, the capital of Britain, is where tourists start their visit to Britain. Having an area of 1,500 sq. km, London resides a population of 7 million from all walks of life.

Public Phones

Those old traditional red booths have mostly been replaced with modern, see-through booths. Coins, phonecards and credit cards are acceptable. Phonecards are available from newsagent and post offices and comes with different amount.

Shopping & Business Hours

Shopping hours are from 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Shops are now allowed to open for up to six hours on a Sunday (except Christmas Day and Easter), and there's an increasing amount of late-night shopping in larger towns, usually on Wednesdays and Thursdays, when shops stay open until about 8:00 p.m. Offices are open from 9:00 a.m. or 9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Banks are open, generally, from 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Taxes

There is a 17.5% Value Added Tax (VAT) added to most goods and restaurants. However, non-European Union citizens can claim back VAT on most goods.

There is a 17.5% VAT for the first 28 days for London properties. Afterwhich, no VAT will be charged.

Time Zone

GMT.

Tipping

Many restaurants and hotels will automatically add a 10% – 15% service charge to your bill, so always check in advance before you hand out any extra money. You are, of course, welcome to tip on top of that for exceptional service.

Visa

Depending on where you are from and the purpose of your visit, you may need a visa to enter Britain. You can contact the British Consulate in your country for detailed advice. Your local BTA (British Tourist Authority) office or travel agent should be able to advise you in the first instance.