Getting Around
London's legendary Tube network remains the
quickest and easiest way to get around the city, though it is best
avoided during rush hour. The famous red buses are a more pleasant,
if slower, way to get around. One-, three-, and seven-day
Travelcards are good options for tourists; they can be used on
buses and the underground and can be bought at any newsagent.
Oyster cards, a reusable, discounted, pay-as-you-go option, are now
available to overseas visitors, but they must be purchased
beforehand online or from overseas travel agents. The ubiquitous
black cabs are excellent but very expensive; minicabs are cheaper
but must be ordered in advance. Illegal minicabs tout for business
around London's theatres and nightspots; they are often the only
option late at night but should not be taken by single women or
those who don't know the way home. London's main attractions are
fairly close to one another; many are situated along the River
Thames, and if the weather is nice, walking or taking a riverboat
are good options. Driving is not a good option in central London,
as parking is difficult to find and very expensive, and those who
park illegally are faced with steep fines at best. A 'congestion
charge' is also payable by those driving into central London from
Monday to Friday between 7am and 6.30pm. However, driving is the
only option for those wanting to explore the countryside. Car
rental companies require the driver to be over 25, have a full
driving license, and hold a credit card. For more information,
visit www.tfl.gov.uk
