Tips for enjoying an affordable vacation within the UK

Tips for enjoying an affordable vacation within the UK, with its traditional pubs, royal landmarks and rich history is a must-do for most Immigrant. However, without proper planning one can easily overspend- $6 for a cup of coffee anyone? In this guide we provide essential tips to navigate the city on your post-lockdown trip.

What are the lodging options?

London may have a costly reputation, but this is likely due to its abundance of five-star hotels – more than any other city in the world. Despite this, affordable options are available. According to Laura Citron, CEO of Visit London, better value can be found outside traditional tourist areas such as Brixton in south London for its lively restaurant and bar scene or Hackney in East London known for creativity and microbreweries. It’s important however to choose lodgings close to a Tube station for easy access into central London.

Should you have oysters or not?

The discussion centers on whether purchasing an Oyster card is a worthwhile investment for using London’s public transport system, as most individuals currently utilize their debit cards to tap onto trains and buses. Prior to making any decisions, it is recommended that you check with your bank regarding any foreign transaction fees associated with utilizing your debit card in this manner.

Furthermore, if one uses their debit card they are unable to receive discounted prices available through concessions. Opting for a Visitor Oyster Card offers various discounts including reduced admission of two pounds at select National Gallery exhibitions or buy-one-get-one-free admittance into the Foundling Museum.

Take a walk

While ticking off London’s renowned landmarks, such as Buckingham Palace, is enjoyable, exploring the city on a walking tour can be more adventurous. Citron suggests opting for unconventional tours like the popular Jack The Ripper and Shoreditch street-art tours to break away from traditional tourism.

For those looking for an affordable option in London,Try Strawberry Tours’ free guided walks( where you tip your guide afterwards) or try TrailTale- with its 20 self-guided walking trails through various parts of London!

Going to the marketplace, going to the bazaar

According to Citron, there is a wide range of food options available at affordable prices in London’s food markets. From delicious raclette and Japanese street food to fresh paella, these markets have it all.

Old Spitalfields Market situated in Shoreditch has more than 40 stalls selling delectable drinks and dishes while the famous Borough market boasts over 100 global cuisines for one to choose from.

On the other end of the spectrum, if you wish to enjoy dining at any of London’s impressive Michelin-starred restaurants – numbering sixty-six- possibilities exist where some accept walk-ins for early or late diners (5:30 PM or after 9:30PM).

Hop on your bicycle

Exploring London on a bike is an inexpensive and effortless mode of transportation, particularly with the availability of Santander Cycles – the city’s bike-sharing program. The rental fee for these bikes costs only £2, providing you with up to 30 minutes free ride time before incurring additional charges at a rate of £1.65 per half hour interval thereafter.