London is a safe city for tourists, according to travel advisories issued by the United States and Canada. The US State Department warns tourists about the possibility of terrorist attacks, mentioning potential targets like tourist spots, transportation hubs, markets, hotels, and more. U.S. travelers are encouraged to review the complete COVID-19 testing and quarantine rules for travel to England, including details on what to do after a positive test.
To stay safe in London, it is essential to take some precautions to avoid pickpocketing and tourist scams. Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in the United Kingdom, and they can strike suddenly and often target tourist spots and transportation hubs. London is at least as safe for tourists as any other major city in the world and safer than many. As long as you steer clear of any demonstration or obvious security operation, there is no reason to think that you will be OK.
London is a fine place to visit and likely safer than many large American cities. Most violence is in areas of deprivation and is often gang-related. However, the US State Department currently recommends US citizens exercise increased caution in the United Kingdom due to terrorism. Before traveling, it is important to do your research on where to stay and use the ePassport Gates on arrival in the UK.
In summary, London is generally a safe city for tourists, but it is essential to take precautions to avoid pickpocketing and tourist scams.
📹 New requirements for Americans traveling to Europe
The rules for Americans traveling to Europe are about to change. Beginning in 2024, more than one-billion people from over 60 …
Is London safer than Paris?
London mayor Sadiq Khan has claimed that London is a “safer city” than Berlin, Madrid, and Paris, but he admits he doesn’t want to be “complacent” as he launches his re-election bid. Khan cited research from University College London and claimed that the capital is safer than most major cities in Europe and the United States despite recent ONS figures suggesting knife crime has risen. He admitted that both as a member of parliament and as the mayor, he has met too many victims of crime.
Is the UK safe for American tourists?
The US State Department advises US citizens to exercise increased caution in the United Kingdom due to terrorism. The UK is considered a high-risk destination for travelers for polio, and the CDC has issued a Travel Alert for polio in Africa. The CDC recommends that unvaccinated, incompletely vaccinated, or with unknown vaccination statuses complete the routine polio vaccine series before any international travel. Adults who have previously completed the full routine polio vaccine series receive a single, lifetime booster dose of the vaccine.
Is London a good place for Americans to visit?
London is a safe city with a high rate of violent crime, but it also faces issues with less-serious crimes like theft. To stay safe, it is essential to be vigilant, keep your eyes and ears open, and move away from suspicious individuals. Keep your belongings secure, such as wearing your backpack in front of you, keeping one foot on a handbag strap, and not using an ATM without first checking the surroundings. Observe public transportation for safety.
Is it safe to go to London right now from the USA?
Terrorism represents a substantial global threat to UK interests and nationals, including those perceived as potential targets. The UK Counter Terrorism Policing agency provides information on the measures that can be taken to ensure personal safety abroad and to mitigate the risks associated with a potential terrorist attack. Similarly, the United States is susceptible to terrorist attacks, with perpetrators demonstrating a proclivity for such actions. It is of the utmost importance to remain aware and vigilant.
How safe is London for tourists?
In comparison to other well-known European cities, London is perceived as a relatively secure location. Due to the high level of security and popularity of these areas, they are well patrolled, thereby ensuring a comfortable and secure environment for visitors. This document serves as a reference for those seeking guidance on how to maintain personal safety during their visit to London. Furthermore, the guide provides recommendations regarding the most optimal activities to engage in during one’s visit to the city.
Is London safe to walk at night?
London, a popular tourist destination, is known for its stunning architecture and a vibrant nightlife. However, safety is a priority, especially at night. To ensure a safe journey, it is essential to plan carefully, avoid walking alone, and stay alert. Use registered taxis, be cautious on public transport, and stay away from platform edges. Be aware of traffic and use a map if needed. Most areas, including the Tube, are safe at night with proper vigilance. However, some boroughs like Hackney and Tower Hamlets have higher crime rates. Listening to instincts and avoiding unfamiliar areas can help ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
What to know before going to London as an American?
Before visiting London in 2024, it is essential to know proper Tube etiquette, avoid driving into the city, and prioritize comfort over fashion. Follow these rules when traveling on London’s Underground: get your ticket, bank card, or smartphone ready before reaching the ticket barriers, stand on the right when using escalators, let passengers off the train first, offer your seat to someone who may need it more, and don’t try to strike up conversations with the locals.
By following these tips, you can ensure a smooth and memorable trip to the UK capital. Remember to follow the rules when traveling on the Tube, stand on the right when using escalators, let passengers off the train first, offer your seat to someone who may need it more, and don’t try to strike up conversations with the locals.
By using public transport, such as the Tube, bus, or renting a bike or e-bike if in the city center, you can avoid the congestion charge of £15 a day and the separate ULEZ charge of £12. 50. Cycle maps can be downloaded online to help you navigate the city and avoid the hassle of driving into the city.
Can US residents travel to London?
The United Kingdom has a passport requirement for its citizens. It is a requirement for U. S. citizens to possess a valid passport for their stay in the United Kingdom, with the recommendation that it be valid for a minimum of six months following their return. For visits of up to 90 days, no visa is necessary.
Is London friendly to foreigners?
The UK, a country known for its multiculturalism and history as a dominant colonial power, has become a welcoming and friendly environment for foreigners. This guide provides an understanding of the UK’s society, systems, and people, as well as introductions to visas, schools, healthcare, social etiquette, climate, business, and accommodation. Post-Brexit, visa requirements for EU citizens have changed, with freedom of movement rules no longer applicable. While general visitor visas are straightforward, work permits and residency applications are less so.
📹 BIGGEST MISTAKES Americans make when visiting London 🚫
In this video Jess is taking her fellow Americans under her wing and letting you all know about the mistakes SHE made when first …
Hi folks. Please do not plug US 110 volt only electrical equipment into our power sockets unless using something called a voltage converter, not just the ubiquitous ‘adapter’. Our voltage is 230 volts. Your gadget will probably be destroyed. Even with a voltage converter be careful, our frequency is also different from yours, it is 50 cycles per second. It may not matter but then again it might. Many electronic devices and associated power supplies bricks are now dual voltage but do make sure to check yours first. Enjoy your visit, we are delighted to have you come over and visit.
These are great articles. In Sep 2023 I went to London for two weeks with my sister, then up to Edinburgh for 9 days. It was one of my best trips ever. Great weather. I am going back in Sep 2024. I hit all the top spots from the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace, Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abby, Kew Gardens and other botanical gardens. If the weather was nice we were out of doors. Loved walking along the Thames for miles too. Loved the food . Stayed in a VRBO at Globe View Apartments, across the river from the Globe Theater (got a tour of that), which means I had daily access to Borough Market. Ate many a meal out of there! Loved the British Museum, the Victoria and Albert one and the London Transport Museum. Mastered riding both the tube and the National Rail – so easy! Loved the pubs. Now that I have the lay of the land, bring my husband in Sep to enjoy all the landmarks that I enjoyed last year! Can’t wait to get back to London!
I also live in the US, but London is my home away from home and I visit every couple years. Spot on advice! I will say, though, it has been my experience that Londoners are super friendly and chatty (barring on the Tube, as she said!) I’ve made friends with strangers each time I’ve gone to London! I have seen many Americans talking loudly on the Tube complaining about Londoners or London….in front of tons of Londoners. Just don’t be that person. ☺️ Also, my other tidbits of advice for someone visiting London for the first time is: avoid the London Eye. Absolutely see the Tower of London, even if you are not super into history. Don’t freak out about the rain. Most of the times I’ve traveled to London, I end up having one half-day or one full day of rain on my trip. Just be prepared, but don’t let it worry you! ABSOLUTELY TRY ALL THE DIFFERENT FOODS! YES, do pub foods, but also try the other kinds of foods!!!! Try to explore other areas such as Chiswick, Greenwhich, etc…London is so much more than just the center of the city. 😊
As usual, as a Londoner most of my life I have to say that “Love & London” is completely accurate with her information. Ok there are variations with some subjects but it’s impossible to cover every situation. I’m still amused that some Americans still think the food here is not good. That situation changed 20+ years ago and has only got better and better. In fact I would guess that the variety of World cuisines (of high quality) is probably the greatest in the World. Yes there are plenty of junk food places but you can easily avoid those. Remember there’s so much more to this city than the obvious tourist hot spots.
I had to giggle when Jess talked about when Londoners ask “how are you?”…that it isn’t really a sincere question. I was in Cape Cod (Massachusetts, USA) once and bought a coaster that says “When I ask how you’re doing, just say “good”. Don’t start telling me stuff “. lol. I think this is definitely one thing that Londoners and (most) Americans have in common.
Unfortunately, I do tend to fall into the loud American category, and I definitely am trying to work on that. In my defense, I do have a 20% hearing loss in one ear… The next time I’m in London, I’m definitely going to try and take advantage of more of the local cuisine like bangers and mash and fish and chips. Regrettably I didn’t get around to those last trip, although I did fall in love with the Cornish pasty…
On the plugs, because the UK mains runs on 240 voltage, US appliances might need a step down transformer to turn that 240 into the (110?) Volts that won’t fry their American devices. (I needed to do this for my Japanese imported Sega Saturn back in the late 90s. Also needed to change the battery on my Chinese imported digital radio, but that may have been because I got it off ebay where it could have been a factory reject. Whether electronics nowadays convert automatically I’m not sure, but it’s definitely worth a Google.)
What I learn about London during this New Years Eve trip, London restaurants and shops close early and you need to have reservations if you are going to eat around the West End Theater District. After I got out of perusal the Book of Mormon, I Google restaurants in the area, most were already closed and the others were closing with in 1 hour. I was surprise by this. Evening shows start promptly at 730pm, you will have to have an early dinner if you want to eat before the show. As it was my 1st time in London, I prefer the taxis over the tube. The tube is cheaper but I was able to see the city while being driven around to my destinations.
Hi! I’m going to London for the first time for a solo trip soon. I live in Boston so I am used to walking a bit and taking the T ( our equivalent of the tube). I am going to stay in Kensington as the hotel prices were significantly lower than closer to the main attractions . However, a lot of the museums, food recommendations I have seen seem like a very long walk on google maps ( minimum 30 min sometimes 45 min or more). I’m not averse to doing some long walking, but am worried about burning myself out by overdoing the walking. The tube estimates though seem to be the equivalent of the walking time though so do you feel like that is accurate? I’m still doing research, but so far I know I’m going to end up going to a show in the west end and some of the main attractions like the parliament building etc. Do you have a feeling about whether or not walking, the tube, or the bus is better from Kensington? Have you heard if afternoon tea at town house at the Kensington is good?
Hi: Love your articles. I live in the US. In 2025 I am taking my oldest granddaughter on a graduation trip to the UK. She is a picky eater. Have you ever done a article on what restaurants to visit in London to visit with a teenager who doesn’t like a lot of food? She likes fish and chips, pasta, and pizza. Thank you.
Fun article. Our ability to talk too loud as Americans travels the world! The food culture in the UK shouldn’t be underestimated. There’s a bit of everything and most of it’s good to great. Unfortunately it feels like pub food has become burgers and chips. It’s a bit of a cliche but Asian food and especially Indian food is amazing. Including Michelin Starred Indian restaurants! It’s been six months. Need to go back…
The central London casinos did not let me in. I was dressed perfectly fine. I had no one with me. One casino said I seemed drunk. I was sober completely as I could not get in anywhere. I have no idea why they thought I was drunk at all. I was nice n polite . It made no sense. No one with me. I tried to go in with a couple n they still said no bc I didn’t have my bf w me. Shoreditch bars were good n gave me no issues