Ready...Set...Go!
What to know before you go to 
  England, Scotland, and Wales  

Travel Insurance:
Many seasoned travelers are not aware that their health insurance may not cover them outside of the country. If you need to cancel your trip due to an unforeseen emergency or serious illness, most of your trip may be non-refundable if you are not insured. In the event you become ill during your travels, finding and receiving medical care may be very frustrating without insurance. Travel insurance also covers lost baggage and worldwide emergency assistance. For a minimal amount of money, travel insurance is a must.

Visa Information:
US citizens need a valid US passport for entry into England, Scotland and Wales. Make three photo-copies of your passport. Leave one copy at home with family and carry the other separately from your original. Due to new airline regulations, a copy of your passport must also be sent to Pilgrim Tours.

Health Certificates:
None required.

Language Spoken:
English

Currency:
The currency in the United Kingdom is the Pound Sterling. Check the travel section of your newspaper or the internet for the most recent exchange rate. If possible, exchange currency at a US bank before you leave. ATM machines are available throughout the United Kingdom. However, in smaller towns ATM cards, travelers checks and credit cards may not be accepted. Please be advised that the ATM machines dispense money in BRITISH POUNDS ONLY - NOT US DOLLARS.

Voltage:
Electricity is 200 volts. You will need to bring along the necessary converters to operate any 120 volt appliances such as hair dryers, electric razors, etc.

Medication:
If you are required to take medications, you should notify the leader of your group in the event of an emergency. Ask your doctor to write an extra prescription to take with you if your medication is lost. All medication must be kept in its original container, including over-the-counter medication.

Baggage Allowance:
Due to the size of baggage compartments in touring coaches, each passenger is restricted to ONE suitcase and ONE carry-on bag (in addition to your purse, camera case or video camera). Be sure your luggage is clearly marked (using the baggage tags provided). It is wise to also insert an index card with your name, address and phone number inside of your luggage.

Airlines limit carry-on luggage to ONE piece not to exceed a 45-inch dimension as it must fit under the seat in front of you or in the overhead compartment.

Time Zone:
Five hours ahead of EST. The UK is on GMT.

Weather:
Under the influence of the mild and moist westerly flow of the North Atlantic, the UK features a climate that is moderate in nature and rarely affected by extremes.

Changeable conditions are likely throughout the year across the UK with periods of clouds and rain. Late spring and early summer typically features the best weather conditions for travelers with an increase in the length of daylight, which brings warm sunshine and milder temperatures. The total number of days featuring precipitation is generally less during this time of year, although showers may be brief yet heavy at times. There is a greater chance for thunderstorms even though severe activity is unusual for this region but not unlikely. Temperatures in the spring and summer are mild to warm even in the North where the higher latitude brings longer daylight hours. Temperatures in the 80s and even 90s (°F) are possible on occasion especially in the South. 

During the winter, not only is this region subject to frequent low clouds and fog due to the moist winds off the North Atlantic, it is also the first to greet many North Atlantic storm systems. These storm systems often wrap in moisture off of the North Atlantic to produce windy and wet conditions for many areas of the West such as Scotland, Ireland, and Northern Ireland. England is also subject to the brunt of these storm systems, although eastern sections typically do not receive as much precipitation overall since many storm systems carry the bulk of the precipitation to the north. Episodes of snow are possible throughout the entire region during the winter and early spring. Snow is usually heavy, wet, and short lived and is more likely to occur in the hills and higher elevations. The mountains of Scotland receive the greatest snowfall each year, which, when accompanied by high winds, may create blizzard-like conditions. Daytime high temperatures generally average on the cool side in the 40s and 50s (°F) throughout the region, with below freezing temperatures possible at night especially in the interior and higher elevations.

Pre-Flight:
Leave your travel information with a family member or friend, including a copy of your passport, your flight itinerary, travel itinerary, hotel names and phone numbers. In the event of an emergency, family members may contact Pilgrim Tours at 800-322-0788.

Dress comfortably for the flight, wearing clothes that allow freedom of movement and shoes that slip on and off easily.

When at the airport, never leave your luggage unattended for any length of time…no matter how short. Do not accept packages from strangers to carry on to the plane for them.

Check-in time for international flights is normally two hours prior to departure. When checking in at the airport, a valid passport is needed as proof of identification for international travelers.

Bring along a moisturizer as the air in the plane cabin is extremely dry.

In order to avoid jet-lag, avoid caffeine, alcohol and carbonated beverages. Rather, opt for natural fruit juices and water.

What to Pack:
Comfortable, casual clothing that can be layered to match the weather is a good suggestion. Planning your wardrobe around one or two colors is also helpful. You may choose to bring along one dressy outfit but it is not necessary. Be sure to include comfortable walking shoes and a lightweight jacket for mornings and evenings.

A raincoat and rain hat (or poncho) are easier to use when sightseeing than an umbrella.

Be sure to keep important items such as documents, money, medications, keys, etc. on your person or in your carry-on luggage. Never pack these items in your checked luggage. 

Do not make yourself a target by wearing expensive jewelry. A good way to conceal your money and valuables is by purchasing an inexpensive, light-weight pouch that attaches around your waist and is worn under your clothes.

Do not over-pack. Leave room in your suitcase for souvenirs.

If you are travelling with a companion, cross-pack. Put half of your items in your companion's luggage and vice-versa. This will ease the frustration of lost luggage.

Take along a small backpack. When you are touring, fill it with bottled water, tissues, and a notebook and pen. It will also come in handy for carrying souvenirs.

Don't forget these travel sized necessities: sewing kit, first-aid kit, tissues, travel clock, toiletries, notebook and pen, pre-printed address labels (for sending postcards), plastic "zip-locking" bags (for storing open bottles and containers).

Purchase your film and batteries in the US. Remember to bring along extra for your video camera.

Tipping:
A service charge is often added to the bill in hotels and restaurants. However, if it is omitted, a tip of 10-15% is customary. A usual tip for tour bus drivers is $1.00 per person, per day and a tour escort usually receives $2.00 per person, per day. Hotel maids receive $1.00 per person, per day. Tip taxi drivers at least 10-15% of the fare. This is simply a general guideline. Tips and gratuities are earned for services rendered in a courteous and professional manner.

Meals:
For meals that are not included, check with your group leader or the front desk at the hotel for suggestions (be sure to mention the price range you are interested in). Many travelers to the British Isles are not overly impressed with the food while others find it hearty and filling. In addition fish and chips, other offerings are Cornish pasties, bangers and mash, shepherd's pie and steak-and-kidney pie. London is full of wonderful ethnic cuisine from every nation that was once part of the British empire. Check out at least one Indian restaurant. 

Shopping:
Check with your group leader or the front desk at your hotel for the best shopping areas. Specify that you are interested in purchasing items that are known for their local and cultural appeal. Harrod's department store and Covent Gardens are two of the most popular places in London for shopping. Shop for silver, teas, pewter, jams, art, books, woolens, linens and clothing.

In the UK:
One important and unnerving custom to acclimate yourself to is looking to the RIGHT when crossing streets. Most cross roads in the cities are marked "Look Right". Take your time and be extremely careful at intersections. Better safe than sorry.

Take advantage of the grandest subway system in the world. The London Underground is an attraction in itself. You'll even find souvenirs of the subway (from tee-shirts to computer gizmos) in almost all of the souvenirs shops. The stations are clean, graffiti free (for the most part) and easy to maneuver.

There are two versions of the English language…the one you'll hear in America is referred to by the British as "American". This is obvious when ordering food, asking directions, etc. You'll find a slight language barrier in pronunciation and word usage. Expect more of a variation in Scotland and Wales.