London is one of the world’s most exciting and dynamic cities. It has a long history dating back thousands of years, an emphasis on the arts and culture, a central role in world finance, a high concentration of world-leading institutions of education, critical contributions to science and technology, and an assortment of famous landmarks and places to visit.
If you plan a trip to Europe’s most visited city, London, for business, leisure, or education, you can rest assured that it is among the safest large cities in the world. But, as with any big city, it is still essential to be cautious while visiting or as a long-time resident.
Before you arrive in London, you must have photocopies of your passport and other travel documents and a copy of all essential contact details, like your embassy or consulate’s phone number. These measures will be helpful in case of any hiccup at the airport.
Tips to Stay Safe in London
Following are a few tips to help you make your stay in London a safe experience:
● Keep Emergency Services On Speed Dial
Once in the city, you can access emergency services like the police, fire, or ambulance by dialling 999 or 112. Both these numbers work the same and are free to call. Only reach out to these services if you are in a real emergency.
● Scope Out Your Place of Stay
When looking for a place to stay, it is essential to consider the hotel’s safety and security. Check customer reviews online and determine whether it has any security measures in place. You will feel a lot more secure living in a relatively safer part of the city.
● Don’t Leave Your Bags Unattended
Leaving your belongings in an open space, like the hotel lobby, is never a good idea. You should store any valuable items in the hotel safe or somewhere secure. When leaving, ensure all the doors and windows are closed.
● Don’t Smoke Londoners Away
It is important to remember that smoking in enclosed public spaces in London, like the rest of England, is prohibited. While you are allowed to smoke a cigarette outdoors, you will likely be causing harm to other people by exposing them to its dangerous secondhand smoke.
You can, however, turn to vaping as a far more healthier and socially acceptable option. Many speciality vaping shops in London sell the latest vapes and e-juices while keeping the regulations in mind. You can pick up a disposable vape like Titak 10K, which is sure to last you the entirety of your trip with its incredible flavour options. Or you can enjoy the extensive range of refillable vape.
● Don’t Show Your Pricey Accessories
Flashing expensive jewellery or carrying large amounts of cash is guaranteed to catch the attention of the wrong crowd. You are better off keeping costly items out of sight in public. However, storing them in your back pockets would not be a brilliant idea, as they are easy to target.
● Withdraw Cash Vigilantly
When using a cashpoint (known as ATMs elsewhere), ensure no one has tampered with the machine or is looking over your shoulder. Always place your hand over the keypad before entering the PIN.
● Keep Your Phone in Your Pocket
Personal theft is the most common crime in London, with mobile phones being the prime target. Keep your smartphone in your pocket, and do not wave it around in the open when not in use. Likewise, using headphones will make you oblivious to what is happening around you, so limiting their use would be great for situational awareness.
● Dodge the Pickpockets
London is full of tourists, and pickpockets are always on the lookout for newcomers to the city. You can avoid their notice by acting not like a tourist, wearing regular clothing, and always keeping all your valuables at hand. Handbags are particularly easy for them to snatch and run away, so a purse or a shoulder bag is a better option to carry the essentials.
● Stay Vigilant At Night
If you decide to hit the streets of London at night to enjoy its vibrant nightlife, take a well-lit route while walking, preferably in the company of a friend or two. While it might be tempting, don’t accept drinks from strangers and always be aware of those around you.
● Mind the Left-Hand Traffic
If you are visiting from a country with right-hand traffic, it is critical to remember that cars drive on the left in the United Kingdom. So, it is essential to stay vigilant when crossing the road as you might see vehicles coming from the ‘wrong’ direction.
● Be Prepared for London’s Moody Weather
London is notorious for its unpredictable weather, with a sunny outlook one minute and a gloomy drizzle the next. So, keeping a brolly (known as an umbrella elsewhere) in hand is always a good idea for comfort and safety.
Winding Up
Whether you travel to London to take in its sights and sounds, grow your business, see a friend, or study, this city will surely live up to all your expectations. But, owing to its large population, you can expect some common problems in London, just like in any of the world’s big cities.
You might hear a news story here and there about crime in the British capital, but these incidents are relatively rare, and you do not need to worry too much about your time there. Following these precautions will help make your trip to London safe, enjoyable, and memorable.
