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London is a vast city and you can’t hope to see all of it
in one day. You can get around the city using the underground or
‘Tube’, trains, buses and taxis, as well as the over
ground rail network for destinations outside the centre, in Greater
London. The London Underground is the easiest and cheapest way to
get around. You buy tickets at the Tube stations where there are
automatic machines or, if you don’t have the right change,
go to the ticket counter.
If you want to check your route, there are always large-scale maps
in the stations. The Tube system is divided into 6 zones, but most
of the sites or shops you are likely to visit will be in zones 1
and 2. The tube is the fastest way to get around the city. Trains
run from 5.30am to midnight except on Christmas day. Lines and directions
are clearly signposted. Be sure to keep your ticket, as you will
need to use it to leave the station on reaching your destination.
The buses are slower than the Tube, but they allow you to see the
city, particularly if you sit up stairs in a double-decker, the
famous two story London bus. On most buses you show your travel
card or buy a ticket from the driver as you get on. Buses are a
good way to get around at night. Night buses display a large ‘N’
before the number, and this service runs between 11pm and 6am.
There are two types of taxis available in London, Black cabs and
Mini cabs. Black cabs are easy to recognize because of their shape.
When the taxi is free the yellow light on the roof will light up
so you can flag one down. Luggage, additional passengers and night
travel are all charged extra. Mini cabs are privately owned cars.
If you decide to take a mini cab be sure to ask the price of the
journey before you get in the car.
Taking a tour on an open toped bus is a good way to orientate yourself
and locate the major sites. Or you can see London from the river.
Starting from Westminster pier, at the foot of Big Ben, boats go
east to the tower of London; Greenwich or Millennium Dome and some
go west to Kew, Richmond and Hampton Court.
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