Communications in London: Using Phones, Computers, Internet and Post Offices

Public Pay Phones

You'll find public telephone boxes all over London. In many phone booths, you can surf the internet and send emails and text messages, as well as making telephone calls.

Mobile Phones

Most dual and tri band mobile phones with GSM 900 or 1800 will work in Britain. Before you leave for your holiday, check with your mobile provider that the roaming function is activated on your phone.

Internet

The internet is widely available in London. You may be able to log on from your hotel room, or you can head to one of London's many internet cafés.

If you have your own laptop, you can access free wi-fi in some public places, for example cafés, hotels and train carriages.

Computers

If you're planning to bring a laptop or computer to London, you need to know about voltages.

The UK uses 240-volt electricity, while the United States and Canada use 110 volts and European countries use 220 volts.

If your appliance is dual voltage, you can switch it to work on 240 volts. Otherwise you may need to use a converter or transformer.

You might also need an adaptor to plug your computer into an electric socket.

International Dialling Codes

The international dialling code for Britain is +44.

Find the codes for other countries on the British Telecom (BT) website: www.thephonebook.bt.com

Post Offices

You'll find plenty of Post Offices in London, where you can post letters and parcels and exchange currency.

Post Offices are generally open from 9am to 5.30pm. Larger branches are often open on Saturday mornings.

If you simply want to post a letter or postcard, you can use one of London's iconic red post boxes. Stamps can be bought in Post Offices, newsagents, grocery stores and supermarkets.

Visit the Royal Mail website (www.royalmail.com) for more information.

Sending Letters Abroad

You can send mail weighing up to 2kg abroad by either airmail or surface mail. Airmail is quick and simple; surface mail is cheaper but takes longer.

All parcels sent to destinations outside the European Union are liable to examination by customs authorities.

You may need to fill out a customs declaration before you post your package. Find out more on HM Revenue & Customs website: www.hmrc.gov.uk

Sending Letters in the UK

You can send mail within Britain by either first or second class mail. First class is faster and slightly more expensive than second class.

Useful Numbers

999 – Emergency services (police, fire, ambulance, coastguard) – for genuine emergencies only

100 – Operator (for help with calls in the UK and Republic of Ireland)

155 – International Operator (for help with international calls or calls to a ship)

118 500 – Directory Enquiries (phone numbers for UK people and businesses)

118 505 – International Directory Enquiries (phone numbers for overseas people or businesses)