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Essential Tips for Americans Visiting London: Navigating Culture, Currency, & Comfy Stays

Essential Tips for Americans Visiting London: Navigating Culture, Currency, & Comfy Stays

For Americans, London is a city that feels familiar yet entirely foreign all at once. Crossing the Atlantic to London provides a shared language for most Americans, but London has its own cultural rhythm and a historical depth that we can’t begin to imagine. And having a little insider knowledge is helpful for navigating the city smoothly. 

Whether you’re a history buff, traveling with your family, or you are traveling for business, Riverdale Travel has the details for being an American tourist in London. Let’s take a look at how to navigate the cultural differences in London, handling currency, where to stay, and some pro tips to get you through your vacation to London.

Navigating the Culture: Mind the Gap

The British are famously polite people, but their social cues are different from the high-energy “American style.” It will work to your advantage if you “mind the gap,” so to speak, and understand what locals expect of others in the city. 

1. Literally Mind the Gap 

The London Underground, also called “the Tube,” is a quick way to get around the city when going by foot is too far. But watch out for the large gap between the platform and the car. Take a big step to avoid getting stuck. 

2. Respect the Queue

Cutting or jumping in line is sure to earn you disapproval from the locals. No matter where you are, find the end of the line. 

3. Escalator Etiquette

When using the London Underground, always stand on the right and walk on the left. It’s best to avoid collisions with busy locals heading to and from work or other engagements. 

4. The Pints and Pubs 

Pubs are the most popular community hubs in London, where the pint reigns supreme. Many pubs have a lower floor and an upper floor–the lower floor is louder and lively for drinking a pint at the end of the day, while the upper floor is better for eating a quiet meal. You will also need to plan to order at the bar rather than wait for table service. 

5. Look Both Ways and Then Look Again

Another way to look too much like a tourist is not checking both directions before crossing the street. The British drive on the “opposite” side of the road from Americans, so keeping this in mind will save you a trip to the emergency room. Many of the streets have the direction to look painted on them, so you have a constant reminder. 

6. Don’t Talk about Brexit

It’s just better to avoid politics, no matter where you are in the world. Unless they bring it up, your taxi drivers and other locals likely won’t want to talk about it.

7. London is Vastly Multi-Cultural

If you walk down Oxford Street in London, you will hear many languages from around the world. Be prepared to see and hear other languages and cultures, and enjoy the experience of a mini world-tour in one place. 

Currency: Tap, Pay, and Go

In the UK, the currency is the Pound Sterling (GBP). At the time of writing, the exchange rate is 1.35 US dollars to 1 GBP. You can acquire GBP notes from your local bank or currency exchange; however, it’s not as necessary as it used to be. Many items in London stores are listed in both GBP and USD, and you can use your American credit card to pay. You will simply see an exchange rate charge on your statement after your vacation. 

Tipping

Tipping is a little different in London compared to what Americans are used to. Let’s look at when to tip and when you don’t need to. 

  • Sit-Down Restaurant: Restaurants will add a VAT Rate of 20% to your bill, and some will automatically add a service charge, around 12.5%, on your bill. Paying the service charge is always optional, so if you want to show your appreciation for service, you can pay the full amount. Otherwise, just pay the total without the service charge. 

  • When No Service Charge is Added: There is no service charge on your bill, and you want to leave more, paying a 10-15% tip is customary. However, be mindful that the service in London is not quite what you’re used to, so be prepared to set your expectations. 

  • Pubs: You don’t need to tip at pubs in London, though you’re free to give them cash at the end of the night if you choose. 

  • Nightclubs: Also not necessary, but makes a good impression. 

  • Taxi Drivers: You don’t need to tip taxi drivers, but you can always round up to the nearest Pound. If you’re taking a black cab, it is customary to tip the driver. 

  • Uber: Uber does not have a set percentage tip as it does in America, but it will offer for you to leave a few extra dollars at the end of your ride. 

  • Hotels: Tipping is not necessary unless you want to pay the bellhop for helping with your bags (typically in higher-end hotels). 

  • Tour Guides: It’s nice to tip your tour guides, as this is the best way for them to make money. They may also ask you to leave a positive review on a website like Google or Yelp, so that is a nice added touch if you had a good time.

Comfy Stays for Your Travel Style

Where you stay in London depends on what kind of trip you are taking. For example, if you are traveling for business, you may want to stay in “The City” (London’s financial district) or Canary Wharf. There, you will find high-end hotels with reliable Wi-Fi, gym facilities, and easy access to the Elizabeth Line, which can get you to Heathrow Airport in 40 minutes. 

For families, South Kensington and Bloomsbury are great places to stay because of their proximity to “fun stuff.” South Kensington puts you within walking distance of the Natural History Museum and Hyde Park.

For all-inclusive or luxury travelers, consider staying in Mayfair and St. James. The historic luxury hotels are unmatched in these areas. They provide the quintessential British experience–like Afternoon Tea, concierge-level service, and proximity to the Royal Parks. 

A Few Pro Travel Tips While in London

To make sure you’re prepared for your trip to London, here are some pro tips from Riverdale Travel’s expert consultants: 

  • Dial 999 for Emergency Services

  • Buy a Type G adapter to plug in your electronics in London

  • Walking may be faster than the Tube

  • Make sure to check out Covent Garden, Soho, Notting Hill, Exmouth Market in Clerkenwell, and Upper Street in Angel for shops, bars, and cafes

  • Don’t buy a physical ticket for the tube. Simply tap your credit card on the reader and go. 

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