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HEALTH, SAFETY and COMFORT
Electric supply in the UK: 220-240 Volts
Sockets only take standard three pin British plugs (left). Adapters can be difficult to find, so bring a suitable one with you from your own country of residence or buy one at airports, ferry ports or other major points of arrival and departure.
Electrical Appliances:
Be aware that power points for two-pin electric shavers and hairdryers are not always provided in the UK. Some electrical equipment such as power packs and battery chargers for mobile phones, laptops, cameras, videos, etc. need a special adapter.
CTIS advice: if you are unsure about any appliances you plan bringing to the UK, refer to the manufacturer's instructions or ask a qualified electrician for advice.
Drinking Water:
It is quite safe to drink water straight from the mains supply in the UK.
CTIS advice: avoid drinking water drawn from taps in bathrooms & bedrooms in properties with cold water storage tanks.
Wardrobe Worries:
Swings from seasonal hot sunshine to unreasonable cool rain (or vice versa) in a few hours are not rare. If planning to walk in the mountains, a full kit, including sturdy boots is absolutely essential. Washing is easy at launderettes throughout the UK. Pack clothes which can be easily mixed and matched: vest, t-shirt, pullover and knee-length waterproof jacket.
CTIS advice: think in layers, which can be peeled off as the temperatures rise or added when they fall.
MONEY MATTERS
Currency Exchange:
Be aware that banks and bureaux de change give widely varying rates and can also charge large commissions for exchanging travellers checks, foreign currency or using credit cards to withdraw cash. Order travellers' cheques in pounds sterling from your bank, to avoid fluctuations in exchange rates. Some businesses may accept uros, but Eurocheques cannot be used in the UK.
CTIS advice: always double-check exchange & commission rates.
Credit & Debit Cards:
Some shops, accommodation, tank stations and restaurants do not accept credit cards and some debit cards cannot be used abroad. MasterCard and Visa can be used throughout the UK, however very few small businesses accept American Express.
CTIS advice: check your card can be used abroad and always tell your bank or credit card company when you are going on holiday and where you plan to travel.
TRANSPORT
Trains:
Several train operators use the rail network in the UK. Tickets are only valid for the company running the train as indicated on the travel documentation, not the route. Miss a train and it will only be possible to take the next if it is 'a horse out of the same stable'.
CTIS advice: always reserve a seat before travelling and book tickets as far in advance as possible to take advantage of special deals. Allow plenty of time for delays and cancellations. Trains no longer wait for connecting services.
Any other questions?
If you have questions or worries about travelling to Criccieth, Wales or Britain from abroad please e-mail CTIS: we will do our best to answer or will refer you to someone else who is able or better qualified to help.
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