The United Kingdom once ruled nearly the entire world a century ago. The glory might have been lost, but people are still proud of their country and heritage. The UK consists mainly of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.The country is full of scenic locales and energetic cities. The UK is home to nearly two million heritage points. The capital city of the UK is London. A city beyond comparison, representing itself as an icon of diversity with people from different races, creeds and all walks of life blended into its culture. It is also home to many architectural marvels, such as London, or Tower, Bridge.
While York and Durham manifests the bygone era of country, Liverpool and Newcastle are modern industrial marvels. The scenic Lake District and Edinburgh attract tourists from all over the world.
Population & Languages
The population is around 61 million and the official language is English. Other regional languages spoken include Welsh, Gaelic and Irish.
Electricity
The voltage is 230-240 volts and the frequency is 50 Hz. The type of plug used is a rectangular blade.
Location
It is located in Western Europe and consists of islands, including the northern one-sixth of Ireland. It is 22 miles from the France border and linked by a under sea tunnel. The terrain is mostly rolling lowlands and low mountains.
Climate
It has a moderate climate, but lots of rain with around half of the year being overcast. The lowest temperatures never go below −15 °C (5 °F) and in summer the average maximum is 34 °C (93.2 °F). It also gets snow in winter and early spring.
Local Customs
The handshake is customary when you are meeting somebody for the first time. When visiting someone’s house, a small gift like flowers or chocolates is customary. Waiting until everyone is served before eating is also good etiquette. Tipping is usually 10-15% for hotels, restaurants and taxi drivers. Smoking and non-smoking areas are clearly designated.
Places to see
- London – Buckingham Palace, Hampton Court Palace, Kensington Palace, Whitehall Palace and the Tower of London
- Scotland - The Bannockburn Heritage Centre and Ben Lawers Mountains
- Wales - Aberdulais Falls, King Arthur's Labyrinth, Dolaucothi Gold Mines, Great Orme Mines, Portmeirion Village, Rhossili Visitor Centre, Taff Valley Activity Centre and TechinQuest
- By Air – The domestic airline is British Airways, which also connects almost all major world destinations. Most major airlines connect through London's Heathrow or Gatwick airports.
- By Sea – Since the UK is surrounded by water, it has many ports. There are many ferry services operating between Europe and the UK.
- By Rail – Trains connect ferries at Dover, Folkestone, Newhaven, Portsmouth and Weymouth, sailing for Belgium, France, Germany and Spain (you need to board at Victoria Station in London); and at Harwich, sailing for Germany, the Netherlands and Scandinavia (you need to board at Liverpool Street station). Eurostar trains connect London with Brussels and Paris through the channel tunnel, or "Chunnel."
- By Road – Vehicles can enter the UK through the channel tunnel. Cars, motorcycles, coaches, minibuses, caravans, campervans and other vehicles more than 1.85m (6.07ft) can also use the channel tunnel, as can bicycles.
- Up to 3200 cigarettes
- 400 cigarillos or 200 cigars
- 1 liter of spirits over 22%, 2 liters of wine or 32 liters of beer
- Perfume
- Gifts up to ₤145
Narcotics, firearms, ammunition, weapons, most meat and dairy products, eggs, plants, endangered species, fireworks, and alcoholic beverages that contain more than 60 per cent alcohol.
Image: FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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