Here, royalty and commoners coexist in harmony, traditional culture and modern technology complement each other, and intense football matches are balanced by artistic theatrical performances. This is the United Kingdom, a nation where fashion and tradition shine together. The distinct artistic style, academic atmosphere, and picturesque scenery, so different from those in China, are attracting more and more Chinese people to immigrate to the UK, hoping to achieve their dreams there. However, for new UK immigrants, upon arrival, should we familiarize ourselves with some basic common knowledge about life in the UK?
1. The UK is not in the Schengen Area. Even if you hold a UK student visa, you must apply for a Schengen visa. If you have a Schengen visa, you must still apply for a UK visa.
2. The currency used in the UK is the British Pound (GBP).
3. The country code is +44. The emergency number is 999.
4. Driving is on the left side of the road.
5. 230V British standard, three-pin plugs. 6. Language: English. Remember not to confuse the English with the Scots. You can refer to them as British.
6. The latitude is high and it is rainy. Summer temperatures will not exceed 30°C. Winter temperatures are generally above zero. The temperature difference between day and night is significant, and there is a large temperature difference when it is sunny versus raining. Pay attention to keeping warm.
7. Food prices are high, gasoline prices are high, and accommodation prices are high.
However, the UK has B&B (Bed & Breakfast) guesthouses. They provide a full English breakfast and a bedroom (some have shared bathrooms). They are especially suitable for self-driving trips. If you are not in a major city, the basic conditions for over £60 are generally acceptable.
8. Smoking is prohibited indoors.
9. Carry an English student ID or apply for an NUS international student card to receive discounts.
10. Most public museums (including the British Museum) are free.
11. Please ensure you have a basic impression of the diet before you arrive.
12. The UK is suitable for self-driving, and many companies offer one-way rentals, but please be sure to remember to drive on the left. The speed limit on highways with a central reservation is 70 mph; otherwise, it is 60 mph. For other roads, follow the road signs. In addition to self-driving, you can choose to travel by train. There is a 16-25 Railcard; those who meet the age requirements can spend £26 with their passport to get one, which is valid for one year and offers 1/3 off ticket prices. Basically, the cost of the railcard is recovered after one trip from London to Edinburgh.
13. Generally, do not expect to have a signal in the subway.
14. You can temporarily buy a Lebara or Lyca SIM card. Calling back to China costs about 0.1-0.3 RMB/minute.
