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Security Alert May 17, 2024

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United Kingdom Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 26, 2023, united kingdom - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in the United Kingdom due to terrorism.

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in the United Kingdom. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

There is also a risk of isolated violence by dissident groups in Northern Ireland, focused primarily on police and military targets.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to the United Kingdom.

If you decide to travel to the United Kingdom:

Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.
Follow the instructions of local authorities.
Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and Twitter.com/Travelgov
Review the  Country Security Report  for the United Kingdom.
Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel and return to the United States.
Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Travel Advisory Levels

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International travel, immigration and repatriation during COVID-19

New system for international travel

Eight countries will move from the red list on 22 September and the rules for international travel to England will change on 4 October 2021.

new clearer travel system: red list and rest of world
simpler, cheaper rules for fully vaccinated travellers coming from non-red list countries – fully vaccinated passengers will be able to replace day 2 PCR tests with cheaper lateral flow tests – from the end of October – and no longer need to take pre-departure tests (PDTs)
8 destinations removed from red list including Turkey and Pakistan
government recognises full vaccinations from a further 17 countries and territories including Japan and Singapore

Read the rules for travel to England from 4 October 2021 .

The Transport Secretary, Grant Shapps, has today (17 September 2021) announced a simplified system for international travel in light of the success of the UK ’s domestic vaccine rollout, providing greater stability for industry and passengers.

The current traffic light system will be replaced by a single red list of countries and territories which will continue to be crucial in order to protect public health, and simplified travel measures for arrivals from the rest of the world from Monday 4 October at 4am.

Testing requirements will also be reduced for eligible fully vaccinated travellers, who will no longer need to take a PDT when travelling to England from Monday 4 October 4am.

From the end of October, eligible fully vaccinated passengers and those with an approved vaccine from a select group of non-red countries will be able to replace their day 2 test with a cheaper lateral flow test, reducing the cost of tests on arrival into England. The government wants to introduce this by the end of October, aiming to have it in place for when people return from half-term breaks.

Anyone testing positive will need to isolate and take a confirmatory PCR test, at no additional cost to the traveller, which would be genomically sequenced to help identify new variants.

Testing for unvaccinated passengers from non-red countries will include pre-departure tests, day 2 and day 8 PCR tests. Test to release remains an option to reduce self-isolation period.

From 4 October, England will welcome fully vaccinated travellers from a host of new countries – who will be treated like returning fully vaccinated UK travellers – including 17 countries and territories such as Japan and Singapore, following the success of an existing pilot with the US and Europe.

Grant Shapps Transport Secretary said:

Today’s changes mean a simpler, more straightforward system. One with less testing and lower costs, allowing more people to travel, see loved ones or conduct business around the world while providing a boost for the travel industry. Public health has always been at the heart of our international travel policy and with more than 8 in 10 adults vaccinated in the UK , we are now able to introduce a proportionate updated structure that reflects the new landscape.

Part of the third Global Travel Taskforce checkpoint review, today’s update reiterates the government’s focus on protecting its borders from the most dangerous variants and ensures continuity for industry and passengers the remainder of the year. We will look to set out a further review for the UK ’s international travel policy early in the new year to provide further certainty for the spring and summer 2022 seasons.

Conducting the final regular traffic light review before the switch to the new two-tiered system, several additional countries and territories will move off the red list – Turkey, Pakistan, the Maldives, Egypt, Sri Lanka, Oman, Bangladesh and Kenya. Changes will come into effect at 4am Wednesday 22 September.

Passengers who aren’t recognised as being fully vaccinated with authorised vaccines and certificates under England’s international travel rules, will still have to take a pre-departure test , a day 2 and day 8 PCR test and self-isolate for 10 days upon their return from a non-red list country under the new two-tiered travel programme. Test to Release will remain an option for unvaccinated passengers who wish to shorten their isolation period.

Sajid Javid Health and Social Care Secretary said:

Today we have simplified the travel rules to make them easier to understand and follow, opening up tourism and reducing the costs to go abroad. As global vaccination efforts continue to accelerate and more people gain protection from this dreadful disease, it is right that our rules and regulations keep pace.

From late October, we will also be making changes to allow passengers who change flights or international trains during their journey to follow the measures associated to their country of departure, rather than any countries they have transited through as part of their journey.

All passengers will still need to fill in a passenger locator form ahead of travel. Passengers should continue to check GOV. UK travel guidance including FCDO travel advice before, during and after travel to keep up to date in entry requirements and ensure compliance with the latest COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 regulations for the country being visited.

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If you're planning a trip to London, consider these COVID and weather advisories first

If planning a trip to London, there are COVID- and weather-related advisories you should know.
Keep reading for important details regarding mask mandates and more ahead of your visit.
Visit Insider's hub for travel guides, tips, and recommendations .

You might be packed and ready for your trip to London, but to make your visit as smooth as possible, there are a few important things to keep in mind before arriving. Keep reading for the latest details on advisories regarding COVID, weather, and more.

COVID-19 advisory

Anyone who enters the the United Kingdom must take a PCR test by the end of the second day after arrival and self-isolate until they have received a negative result. Vaccinated individuals must also complete a passenger locator form within 48 hours of arriving in the UK.

Coronavirus: UK tightens travel rules amid Omicron spread

Published 4 December 2021
Coronavirus

Man wearing mask with suitcases at Heathrow arrivals

Travellers heading to the UK will now have to take a Covid test before their departure in an effort to limit spread of the virus, the government has said.

Health Secretary Sajid Javid said the tightened requirements would come into force from 04:00 GMT on Tuesday.

Everyone aged 12 and over will be required to take a pre-departure test a maximum of 48 hours before leaving.

Currently people only need to self-isolate until they test negative within two days of arriving.

Nigeria will be added from Monday to the red list of countries from where people arriving must quarantine in a hotel for 10 days, Mr Javid also confirmed.

The health secretary said the government's strategy since the discovery of the Omicron variant had been to "buy time" to assess and to "put in place protective measures", adding: "We've always said that we would act swiftly should new data require it."

What are the UK's new travel rules?

Is Omicron more harmful than other Covid variants?

First data points to Omicron re-infection risk

The Department of Health and Social Care later said 21 Omicron cases linked to Nigerian travel had been discovered in recent days.

Mr Javid said this number was growing and Nigeria was now second only to South Africa in terms of linked cases to Omicron.

He called on people to get a booster vaccine when called to do so by the NHS, describing vaccinations as the country's "first line of defence" against coronavirus.

A further 26 Omicron cases - of which 25 were recorded in England and one in Scotland - were confirmed in the UK on Saturday.

Those cases took the total for England to 129. Scotland has so far recorded 30 cases while one case was identified in Wales, bringing the total for the UK as a whole to 160.

The Scottish and Welsh governments have confirmed they will also bring in the updated measures for travellers following the assessment of the UK Health Security Agency.

The moves come after pressure on the UK government to tighten the policy on overseas arrivals.

Last week the government's scientific advisory body Sage said pre-departure tests for those arriving in the UK would be valuable, in the leaked minutes of a meeting seen by the BBC .

Following the latest announcement Labour's shadow health secretary Wes Streeting called for further action and for the number of booster jabs given to be increased to 500,000 per day.

In a tweet he said: "Finally the health secretary accepts Labour's call for pre-departure tests, but why up to 48 hours before flight?"

by Katy Austin, BBC transport correspondent

While Labour has pushed for pre-departure testing to avoid Omicron spreading, travel businesses will see it as a significant setback - just when green shoots of recovery were emerging.

Airlines have supported the red list re-introduction and extension. But they view the introduction of blanket restrictions as unnecessary and ineffective.

There was already concern in the industry that people's confidence to travel, and to book future trips, would be knocked by the requirement to take a PCR test within 48 hours of arriving in the UK, and the need to self-isolate until a negative result.

The fear is this latest measure will provide a further deterrent.

Also, the addition of another country to the red list comes as some UK residents in South Africa are still struggling to get home, because they can't find quarantine hotel rooms available on the day their flight arrives.

Earlier this week, Downing Street said any further testing requirement would have a detrimental effect on the travel industry and those planning to go travelling.

Commenting on the announcement, British Airways' Chairman Sean Doyle said the move was "completely out of step with the rest of the world, with every other country taking a measured approach based on the science".

"Our customers will now be faced with uncertainty and chaos and yet again this a devastating blow for everyone who works in the travel industry," he added.

Airlines UK said the change was a "premature" move that would "hit industry and passengers before we see the full data" on the effect of the Omicron variant.

The trade body added: "The red list extension made complete sense - that's what it's there for - but we know from experience that blanket restrictions do not stop the importation of variants.

"It's already here. They've now changed their travel advice twice within a week. It's impossible for anyone to plan."

Travel association Abta said the re-introduction of pre-departure tests would be "a huge blow" to "an already devastated travel industry".

The group called for the government "to step up to save jobs and businesses" and for the cost of PCR tests to be reduced.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said additional caution is needed as scientists continue to work to understand the new variant.

In a tweet he said: "We appreciate this will be difficult for the travel sector as we prioritise public health and protect the progress of our world-leading vax and booster programme."

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London Travel Safety Guide for 2024

You want to visit London, the greenest city in the world , home to Big Ben, the Tate Modern, and the London Eye, but first, you need to know—how safe is this cosmopolitan capital?

The good news is that the capital is generally safe. What do you mean ‘generally’? You ask, clutching your purse.

Stick with us for the most useful safety tips, recommendations of what areas to visit and what areas to avoid, what you can expect in terms of police presence, and more. Learn just how street-smart you need to be in London to navigate potential dangers and enjoy your vacation free of worries.

Is London Safe?

London is relatively safe, especially for a big city. According to The Economist , London is the fifteenth safest city globally – much safer than other tourist hotspots like Paris , Milan, and Rome.

Here’s a quick rundown of London’s safety status:

The most common crime in London is anti-social behavior
Westminster is the most dangerous neighborhood, whereas the City of London (the administrative district) is the safest
London had a lower homicide rate than 120 of the biggest US cities
You’ll see plenty of helpful police officers around London – about 34,868 of them were spread across the capital in 2022
Public transport is safe, as long as you keep an eye on your belongings
The UK medical system is one of the largest and best both in quality and providing universal health care
The main natural and environmental concerns are storms, floods, heat waves, and bad air quality

Travel Advisory for London

According to travel advisories issued by the United States and Canada , London falls into the level 2 safety category – ‘Exercise Increased Caution’.

The US State Department warns tourists about the possibility of terrorist attacks, mentioning potential targets like tourist spots, transportation hubs, markets, hotels, and more. They emphasize that terrorists might strike with little or no warning.

Similarly, the Canadian travel advisory raises concerns regarding terrorism, but mostly focuses on common, petty crimes such as pickpocketing, purse snatching, and cellphone theft in certain tourist areas of London.

Keep in mind that these advisories apply to the entire United Kingdom, but as London is the capital, it’s more susceptible to some of these crimes. So yes, the higher-ups say it’s safe to visit London, but they also want you to proceed with caution and be ready for anything.

A Comprehensive Look at London Crime Rates

The most common crime in London is antisocial behavior (consumption of illegal substances, illegal raves, drinking, urinating, defecating).

In 2019, London had a lower homicide rate than 120 of the biggest U.S. cities, at just 1.9 per 100,000 residents.

Surprisingly, possession of weapons is the least common crime , which is good news and probably why violent crimes like homicides are very rare.

In terms of neighborhoods, Westminster is considered the most dangerous place area in London, followed by Camden, Newham, Southwark, and Lambeth.

Conversely, the safest neighborhood is the City of London, also known as just “the City” or “Square Mile,” followed by Kingston upon Thames, Richmond upon Thames, Sutton, and Merton. So, when you’re exploring London, gravitate towards the safer districts to decrease the chances of getting into trouble.

Here are some hard numbers to help you get a better understanding of crime stats in London.

London Crime Map

Police presence in london.

You’ll find a substantial number of helpful police officers around London. In fact, the number of police officers in London has reached an all-time high .

In 2022, there were 34,868 police officers in London, an increase of 1,065 officers since 2011. The majority, around 33,984, work for the Metropolitan Police Service, responsible for policing most parts of the UK capital. Additionally, the City of London Police, with a total of 884 police officers, maintains peace and order in the historical center of the city.

During the summer of 2023 , in response to anti-social behavior reports, more police officers moved in on parks and green spaces in London. The Metropolitan Police also has an official website where tourists and residents can report crimes and check out safety tips for their visit to London. So, you can count on a visible police presence and resources to help ensure your safety in the city.

Public Transportation Safety in London

London’s public transport is generally safe, with millions of passengers traveling daily , and very few witnessing or falling victim to crime. There’s a team of over 2,000 officers watching over the transport network, making sure things are safe for everyone.

However, while the authorities do their part, passengers should also take care of their safety. Never leave your belongings unattended during your journey. Keep bags closed, hide your phone, and sit on the first floor at night, so you’re closer to an exit in case of any concerns.

Medical Care Quality in London

The NHS (National Health Service) is the United Kingdom’s universal healthcare system. It is in charge of everything health-related in the country and is one of the largest health networks in the world, assisting approximately a million people every 36 hours . Overall, the NHS offers an excellent standard of healthcare , coming in 10th in the 2021 World Index of Health Innovation . It’s also well-respected — in the UK, people rank it as the number one thing they’re most proud of.

One thing to note: There might be a bit of a wait in the emergency room or for scheduled appointments. If you want to save some time on your limited days there, you can also consider going to private medical centers in London.

Here are some of the most well-known healthcare establishments in London:

Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children (GOSH)
The Royal Brompton & Harefield Hospitals Specialist Care
The Wellington Hospital
The London Clinic
The Cleveland Clinic
King Edward VII’s Hospital
The Portland Hospital
The Queen Square Private Hospital
The Princess Grace Hospital
The London Welbeck Hospital
The Lister Hospital
The Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital
The Harley Street Dermal Clinic
The Blackheath Hospital
London Bridge Hospital
Cromwell Hospital
Highgate Private Hospital
Priory Hospital London
St Anthony’s Hospital
The Hendon Hospital
The Weymouth Street Hospital

Is It Safe to Travel Solo in London?

London is generally a safe destination for solo travelers, thanks to its efficient public transportation system and significant police presence. However, according to Numbeo statistics , London isn’t the safest place for nighttime solo strolls, particularly in high-crime areas. So, while enjoying a solo trip in London is possible, staying vigilant is key, especially after nightfall.

Is It Safe to Travel to London as a Family?

As long as you stick to family-friendly spaces and attractions, London is among the safest cities for families. A must-visit attraction is the Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio tour—your kids will be left in awe! Even if you (rightfully) think that the movies got nowhere near the quality, heart, and charm of the books, the sets are still pretty cool.

However, just like in any destination, it’s important to be cautious . Keep an eye on your children, especially in crowded places or when using public transport. It’s also a good idea to stick together during your adventures and plan only daytime excursions—not only should your kids get a good night’s rest, but also the city is less safe at night.

Perils of Nature: The Risk of Natural Disasters in London

London doesn’t experience major natural disasters like earthquakes or hurricanes , but the capital has its own quirky weather and environmental hiccups— storms, floods, heatwaves, and low air quality.

London experiences fairly consistent rainfall throughout the year, with an average of 11 to 15 rainy days each month. The months of November and August typically see the highest rainfall, while March and April are the sunniest.

Frequent rain sometimes brings an occasional storm. Although not as severe as hurricanes, the storms’ heavy winds and rainfall can still disrupt your plans, forcing you to reorganize activities and transportation, while causing delays. Follow the latest weather reports regarding the London area and try to plan ahead. If there’s a storm brewing, what better way to spend the day than inside one of London’s many museums?

Intense storms can lead to localized flooding, especially following heavy and prolonged rainfall. In 2021 , for instance, a month’s worth of rain fell in only one day.

This amount of rainfall can lead to evacuations, temporary closure of the London Underground stations, and even the shutdown of businesses near the River Thames. In times of floods, you can’t do much about it except be patient and avoid traveling to the flooded areas. Book rooms at a hotel that’s further from the river so you won’t run the risk of getting evacuated.

London has been experiencing more intense heat waves , similar to Barcelona , New York , and other urban areas affected by climate change. In 2023, the highest heat wave reached 91ºF (33ºC) in London. However, in July 2022, temperatures soared above 104ºF (40°C), marking it the hottest day ever recorded in the country.

The extreme heat can make London quite uncomfortable. If you’re out during the hottest hours, it’s easy to feel dizzy or, in severe cases, get a heatstroke. Drink plenty of water, use sunscreen, and take breaks in the shade to stay safe.

Air Quality Issues

The city’s large size, dense roads, and tall buildings make central London one of the most polluted places in the country. The capital tends to be the most polluted when there’s light wind, clear skies, and a lower chance of rain.

On those bad air quality days, you might experience a sore throat and a headache . Plus, you won’t have the best visibility to witness what the city has to offer. Still, you can have a great time in London when the air quality is low—just limit your adventures to indoor venues like malls, museums, restaurants, and cinemas. Track London’s air quality in real time and avoid the most affected neighborhoods.

Beware the Silent Threat: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in London

Carbon monoxide (CO) forms when fuels don’t burn properly. In homes, it could leak from faulty water heaters, furnaces, boilers, fireplaces, stoves, and ovens If CO enters your bloodstream, it stops your blood from carrying oxygen , which could lead to loss of consciousness, nausea, headache, etc., or, in severe cases, be fatal.

The UK records around 50 fatalities and hundreds of injuries every year due to carbon monoxide. In 2023, London had a carbon monoxide leak at a hotel in Kensington. It affected many people, and some had to go to the hospital.

When you’re in London, it’s a good idea to ask the hotel staff if they have carbon monoxide detectors in their rooms. These gadgets check the air quality and let you know if there’s a dangerous gas leak. For added safety, you can carry a portable carbon monoxide detector .

London Weather Patterns: What to Expect

London’s weather can be quite varied. In general, summers are short, warm, and cloud-free though still somewhat rainy. Winters are long, chilly, and often overcast.

The warm season, from June to September, sees July as the hottest month, with highs averaging 73°F (22°C) and lows averaging 59°F (15°C). The cooler period spans from November to March, with February as the coldest month, averaging 39°F (3.8°C) lows and 48°F (8.8°C) highs.

In London, the skies clear up between April and October, peaking in July, while December tends to be quite a bit cloudier. Rain showers are a year-round affair in London, with October seeing the most rain, around 2.2 inches (55.88mm), and March seeing the least, about 1.2 inches (30.48mm).

Days vary a lot in length over the year. The shortest day in 2023 is December 22, with just 7 hours and 50 minutes of daylight, while June 21 brings the longest day, with 16 hours and 39 minutes of daylight.

Monthly Average Temperatures in London

When is the best time to visit london.

The best time to visit London is typically from June to September, as the weather is fantastic, and there are lots of outdoor activities to enjoy. However, London has something to offer year-round, so you’ll have a great time no matter when you visit.

Here’s what each period has to offer:

Best Weather (June to September): Summer brings the warmest temperatures in London. July is the hottest month with the clearest skies. This is one of the busiest tourist seasons in London, so be ready for bigger crowds and higher prices.

Best Prices (January, February, March): London prices drop in the period between the winter holidays and Easter break. This is when you’ll find the best deals on hotels, flights, and city tours.

Low Crowds (January, February, March, April, and November): Around the winter holidays and Easter, the city is quieter. Perfect for checking out the hotspots without dealing with the usual crowds.

How to Stay Safe in London

We promised to tell you just how street-smart you need to be in London:

Use navigation apps like Citymapper to get around
Pick hotels with good reputations and positive reviews, and consider using Booking or Airbnb
Only hail black cabs on the street or consider taxi apps like MyTaxi
Check tube schedules as not all lines run 24/7
Watch out for fake charities asking for money—legitimate charity collectors in the UK carry a permit and registration number
Purchase tickets for London concerts and events from online platforms, not sellers at outside venues
Be careful how use use your phone when you walk along the pavement, as moped thieves may snatch it from you
Hit ATMs in banks or malls where there’s security around
If you catch the bus at night, choose a seat downstairs
Explore the city with a tour group rather than alone, especially at night and especially if traveling to the dodgier parts of town
Watch your drink being made
“Arm” your kids with bracelets bearing their name and your contact number
Invest in a GPS locator, like Apple AirTags, and attach them to your kids’ clothes or backpacks

Emergency Numbers

Police, fire, and ambulance: 112 or 999
Non-urgent matters: 101

London is generally safe at night. Most of central London is well-lit, and public transport runs day and night. The only places to be cautious about at night are the parks, and of course, neighborhoods with higher crime rates. Numbeo statistics suggest that it’s not entirely safe to walk alone in London at night, so keep that in mind. If you’re planning to enjoy the city’s bustling nightlife, opt for going out with a trustworthy companion or group. If that’s not possible, limit your adventures to the daytime.

London has removed all COVID-19 restrictions , so wearing a mask, submitting a negative test, or submitting proof of vaccine is no longer required. Still, it’s advisable to maintain practices like social distancing and regular handwashing. If you do get sick before your trip – from COVID or the regular flu – it’s best to postpone. Walking around with a viral infection could exacerbate your condition as well as make others sick.

London tap water is safe for drinking . British tap water is ranked among the best globally, with a staggering 99.96% quality rating by Discover Water . Plus, the Drinking Water Inspectorate frequently checks its cleanliness and drinking safety.

Double-Decker Buses, Sherlock Holmes, Black Cabs, Big Ben, Royal Guard… Here We Come!

Enjoy all that London has to offer now that it’s relatively safe – so long as you keep your wits about you.

This bustling capital is the fifteenth safest city in the world. Yet, travelers should keep an eye on petty crimes like pickpocketing and antisocial behavior.

Our concluding advice? Stay street-smart, whether you’re exploring the lively streets or the lush parks. Avoid dangerous neighborhoods and dodgy alleyways and if going out at night – stick to your group. The well-prepared police force and top-notch medical system—that you’ll hopefully never need—should keep your mind at ease!

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United Kingdom, including England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

Packing List

After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for United Kingdom, including England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

Chickenpox (Varicella)
Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
Flu (influenza)
Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see Your COVID-19 Vaccination for more information.

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Consider hepatitis A vaccination for most travelers. It is recommended for travelers who will be doing higher risk activities, such as visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where a traveler might get infected through food or water. It is recommended for travelers who plan on eating street food.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to the United Kingdom. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to the United Kingdom.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

the United Kingdom is free of dog rabies. However, rabies may still be present in wildlife species, particularly bats. CDC recommends rabies vaccination before travel only for people working directly with wildlife. These people may include veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers working with specimens from mammalian species.

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Tick-borne Encephalitis

Avoid bug bites

Learn more about tick-borne encephalitis at your destination .

Tick-borne Encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Airborne & droplet.

Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
Bite from an infected rodent
Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
Avoid rodents and areas where they live
Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in the United Kingdom, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Although the United Kingdom is an industrialized country, bug bites here can still spread diseases. Just as you would in the United States, try to avoid bug bites while spending time outside or in wooded areas.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
Consider using permethrin-treated clothing and gear if spending a lot of time outside. Do not use permethrin directly on skin.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
2-undecanone
Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in the United Kingdom include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip:

Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
If you are outside for many hours in the heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
Do not dive into shallow water.
Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if you are driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
Go to a doctor right away.
Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

Use latex condoms correctly.
Do not inject drugs.
Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance for things your regular insurance will not cover.
Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medicines you take.
Bring copies of your prescriptions for medicine and for eye glasses and contact lenses.
Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call the United Kingdom’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
Make sure there are seatbelts.
Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

Wear a seatbelt at all times.
Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
If you choose to drive a vehicle in the United Kingdom, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Traffic flows on the left side of the road in the United Kingdom.

Always pay close attention to the flow of traffic, especially when crossing the street.
LOOK RIGHT for approaching traffic.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
Follow all local laws and social customs.
Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for United Kingdom for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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Help centre
Travel advice

UK travel advice

UK travel alerts

New electronic travel authorisation (eta) for uk visitors.

Last updated: Tuesday 30 th January 2024 4:43pm (UK Time)

Please check the travel advice for all countries in your itinerary .

Entry requirements

You must check all requirements before heading to the airport.

For fully vaccinated travellers

There are currently no COVID-19 travel restrictions in place.

For non vaccinated travellers

It will be your personal choice to wear a face mask onboard. Masks remain available for anyone still wishing to wear one during the flight.

Passport and Visa

Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in the UK.

If you have a connecting flight please ensure you check the entry requirements for your final destination as many countries still have Covid-19 measures in place.

Airport guides

Belfast International Airport (BFS)

Glasgow Airport (GLA)

London Heathrow (LHR)

Manchester Airport (MAN)

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

United Kingdom travel advice

Latest updates: The Need help? section was updated.

Last updated: May 15, 2024 09:03 ET

The Government of the United Kingdom maintains a public alert system on terrorism and communicates terrorism and national emergency threat level changes online and through local media. The national terrorism and national emergency threat level is currently 3 (“substantial”) on a scale of 5. A separate threat level for Northern Ireland is currently 4 (“severe”) on a scale of 5.

National threat level - British Home Office

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common. Cellphone theft is common in certain tourist areas of London. Vehicle theft and theft from parked vehicles also occurs, particularly in tourist areas and roadside rest areas. Theft is common in restaurants, pubs and bars. Never leave bags or purses hanging on the back of your chair.

Thieves work alone and in groups. They may use various techniques to distract you and steal your belongings.

They are especially active in crowded areas, such as:

tourist attractions and busy areas, including Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square and Leicester Square
airports and public transportation
patios and outdoor cafés
hotel lobbies
underground pedestrian walkways
roadside stops

Violent crime

Violent crime, such as mugging, knife crime and sexual assault occurs, particularly in larger cities. There have been incidents of passengers being sexually assaulted and robbed when riding in unlicensed taxis.

If you are the victim of a crime on the transportation system, including in a taxi, consult Transport for London to learn how to report it.

Report a crime or incident on the transportation system - Transport for London

During your trip:

ensure that your belongings, including your passport, are secure at all times
don’t keep your passport and other types of ID at the same place and carry a photocopy rather than the original
avoid showing signs of affluence
avoid carrying large sums of cash or unnecessary valuables
pay attention to your surroundings, particularly in crowded and tourist areas
be wary of unsolicited offers or advice from strangers
be vigilant in urban areas, particularly after dark
never leave personal belongings unattended in a vehicle, even in the trunk
use secure parking facilities, especially overnight

Spiked food and drinks

Snacks, beverages, gum and cigarettes may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Be wary of accepting these items from new acquaintances
Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Fraud can range from simple to sophisticated, and sometimes involve hidden electronic devices that obtain account information and personal identification numbers.

When using debit or credit cards:

pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Cybercrime occurs. Perpetrators may compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal credit card or personal information.

Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks
Avoid making purchases on unsecured websites
Use judgment when posting information on social media
Be especially careful if you are meeting people you have met online
Never click a suspicious link in an email or text message asking for your credit card details

Useful links

More about overseas fraud
Cybercrime - National Crime Agency

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place regularly. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
Follow the instructions of local authorities
Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Strikes and pressure tactics occur from time to time, in key sectors such as transport. These strikes can sometimes complicate travel and disrupt public services.

Consult local media to be aware of strikes that may affect your stay or travel plans
In the event of a transport strike, plan extra time to get to your destination

Northern Ireland

Inter-communal tensions can arise from April to August during the summer marching season. This is particularly common during the weeks leading up to July 12.

During the summer marching season:

expect possible delays and disruptions in some areas
exercise caution
follow the advice of local authorities

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Adventure tourism

Outdoor activities, such as hiking and biking, may lead to safety concerns if they are not well-organized. Weather conditions can change rapidly, even in summer.

Avalanches can occur in Scotland, especially in the Cairngorms area between December and April. Check local avalanche forecasts before you go.

If you intend to go walking, biking or hiking in remote areas:

never do so alone and do not part with your hiking companions
obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be doing it before setting out
buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
avoid venturing off marked trails
ensure that you’re adequately equipped
stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
Weather conditions - Met Office
Avalanche Forecasts - Scottish Avalanche Information Service

Road safety

Vehicles drive on the left.

Pedestrians should use caution when crossing streets and be mindful that traffic comes from the opposite direction than it does in Canada. There are many one-way streets in London and other cities. Always confirm the direction of traffic before you cross the street.

Road conditions

Roads are excellent but are often narrow and congested, especially in urban areas. Use caution when entering a traffic circle (roundabout). Rural roads may become hazardous during severe weather conditions. You should be especially careful when driving in the countryside during periods bad weather or freezing temperature. You should always slow down before approaching turns on narrow roads as curves may hide oncoming traffic.

Public transportation

Public transportation is extensive. Train and bus services connect most cities and areas of the country.

Taxis are widely available. Only use officially licensed and marked taxis or private hire vehicles.

Getting around Britain - Visit Britain
Train schedules and service alerts - National Rail
Taxis and minicabs – Transport for London

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the British authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada .

electronic_travel_authorisation_(eta)

Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

The United Kingdom has started to unroll a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) program. Canadians are not currently able to apply for an ETA.

Once the program goes into effect, you will need to apply for your ETA before you travel to or transit through the UK. You must travel on the passport used for your ETA application.

Apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) – UK Visas and Immigration

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least the expected duration of your stay in the United Kingdom. This requirement may also apply when travelling to Northern Ireland from other parts of the United Kingdom, and vice versa.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other entry requirements

UK Border officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof that you have sufficient funds to support yourself for the duration of your stay.

If you are unable to do so, or if you seek entry as a visitor but are found with items indicating that you intend to seek any type of employment (such as curriculum vitae or educational certificates), you may be denied entry and expelled from the country.

Similarly, if you seek entry as a visitor and are suspected of planning to reside in the UK for any reason, including having a UK-based partner, you may be denied entry.

If you have previously been refused entry, contact the British High Commission in Ottawa to enquire about entry clearance before making plans to visit the UK, even if a visa is normally not required.

Transiting through a United Kingdom airport

If you plan to transit through a United Kingdom airport, make sure you comply with the entry requirements of your final destination. If you don’t meet the entry requirements of your final destination, you may be denied boarding or forced to wait in the UK to apply for a new passport, which can take several days.

Unplanned layovers could lead to substantial travel costs and delays. You should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance related to changes to your travel plans.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary.

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus. Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.

The flu occurs worldwide.

In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to April.
In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and October.
In the tropics, there is flu activity year round.

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional.

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife.

Polio (poliomyelitis) is an infectious disease that can be prevented by vaccination. It is caused by poliovirus type 1, 2 or 3. Circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus 2 (cVDPV2) is present in this country. Polio is spread from person to person and through contaminated food and water. Infection with the polio virus can cause paralysis and death in individuals of any age who are not immune.

Recommendations:

Be sure that your polio vaccinations are up to date before travelling. Polio is part of the routine vaccine schedule for children in Canada.
One booster dose of the polio vaccine is recommended as an adult .

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
Minimize exposure to insects
Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those:

visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

washing your hands often
avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.

Medical services and facilities

Health care is excellent. Service is available throughout the country.

You must pay for medical services provided by the National Health Service (NHS) unless:

you are ordinarily a resident of the United Kingdom
you are accessing emergency services exempted from fees

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Accessing NHS services as a visitor - National Health Service (NHS)
Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and the United Kingdom are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in the United Kingdom to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and the United Kingdom authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs, including cannabis, are severe. Convicted offenders can expect prison sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Laws on knives

It is illegal to carry, purchase, sell or enter the country with certain types of knives. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines and jail sentences.

Selling, buying and carrying knives - UK Government

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in the United Kingdom.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of the United Kingdom, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and the United Kingdom.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in the United Kingdom, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the British court.

If you are in this situation:

act as quickly as you can
contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
consult a lawyer in Canada and in the United Kingdom to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
Travelling with children
The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

London street named one of the most beautiful in the world comes with an unfortunate problem

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Multicolored vibrant row houses in Notting Hill, London, UK

From world-famous museums to energetic pubs on street corners bustling with the sound of chatter, London is famous for many things.

Now, one street has been named one of the most beautiful in the world. And no, it’s not in Elephant and Castle – but Portobello Road in West London.

Londoners are well-acquainted with the fact that, despite it genuinely being one of the most exciting cities in the world, it’s often romanticised by tourists.

Picture perfect snaps of the classic side to the Big Smoke – red buses, telephone boxes and picturesque flower markets – are often shared online with captions full of yearning.

These posts lead those of us who live here to joke ‘where’s this?’, pointing the fans towards the rain, the grey tower blocks and the overwhelming smell of weed and vapes on just about every corner.

As is often the case with many cities (read: New York and Paris, which can be similarly dishevelled and heavily romanticised, as London is), the reality is different from the expectation. That’s perhaps the case with Portobello Road, which according to Condé Nast Traveller , is one of the most beautiful streets in the world.

Crowded street at Portobello Road Market in Notting Hill, London, UK

It might be relatively colourful, and there are a handful of famous pubs dotted around the place that’ll no doubt charge you £15 for an Aperol Spritz, but is Portobello Road really all that?

Found in the Notting Hill district of Kensington and Chelsea, Portobello Road runs roughly parallel to Ladbroke Grove. Each weekend, the famous Portobello Road Market lines the streets, where visitors can purchase second-hand clothes, pastries, antiques and the like.

It wasn’t always famous. Before the Victorian Era, the street was little more than a country road that connected Portobello Farm with Kensal Green. But, as the area became more developed in the nineteenth century, and as the Hammersmith and City tube line was built, it became increasingly built up.

Nowadays, Portobello Road is frequented by thousands of people. Statistics from the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea suggest that between 100,00 and 150,000 people visit the market each Saturday, and over 17 million people travel through Notting Hill Gate station each year.

It’s known for being diverse, too, with the Notting Hill Carnival held annually on the August Bank Holiday Weekend in celebration of West London’s African-Caribbean culture spanning Notting Hill, Ladbroke Grove, Westbourne Park, Bayswater and Royal Oak.

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And, of course, who could forget the impact that Roger Michell’s classic 1999 film ‘Notting Hill,’ starring Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant, had on the local area? No doubt, it played a role in the area being romanticised as home to quaint bookshops (where a charming real-life William Thacker might be lurking) as well as colourful houses.

However, the area is increasingly touristy, which has perhaps tainted its ‘beautiful’ status, with various Reddit threads lending themselves to the debate surrounding Notting Hill and overtourism.

‘Walked through those roads with the colourful houses near Portobello Market and was honestly stunned,’ wrote @mumzspaghetti.

‘A good 100 or so people hanging about in front of people’s homes taking Instagram pics and one woman even had the audacity to open someone’s front gate to stand in front of their door for a pic?! Is it just me or have people forgotten how to act like normal f***ing human beings?’

‘It is awful for the residents, it really is. Some people have even put signs in their window requesting random people don’t enter their gardens or hang out on their front steps,’ added one of the comments.

Another person, who used to work in the area, recalled scenarios where he’d seen people doing a ‘full’ photoshoot with ‘suitcases full of clothes’ they’d brought along.

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Route between Auckland NZ and London UK via South America - Air Travel Forum

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Route between Auckland NZ and London UK via South America

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Hello everyone,

I love planning itineraries for lengthy or complex trips for people but I am really stumped with this one (I think it’s because it’s for me rather than someone else). I would appreciate any advice that you could offer.

Next year I turn 40 and I would like to do a round-the-world trip of sorts during my six week summer holiday during August, starting from London (UK). I know that I would like to visit family in Perth (Aus) and Auckland (NZ) so those are my first two destinations and would take up the first two weeks.

With the four remaining weeks, I would like to hit a few cities in South America on the route back to the UK. I have come up with two possible routes:

- Auckland to Santiago (Chile)

- Santiago to Buenos Aires (Argentina)

- Buenos Aires to Montevideo (Uruguay)

- Montevideo to Rio DJ (Brazil)

- Rio DJ to London

- Auckland to Santiago

- Santiago to La Paz (Bolivia)

- La Paz to Lima (Peru)

- Lima to Quito (Ecuador)

- Quito to Bogotá (Colombia)

- Bogotá to London

What I would like to know is:

- Are there better places/cities to travel to in South America on the route back to the UK for a similar amount of money?

A few notes: I know that there are many wonderful cities and countries in South America- this is just a whistle-stop tour of a few places on the way back to the UK. I will definitely be back to explore these places and others in more depth.

Thank you very much.

5 replies to this topic

You might want to look at RTW tickets ( good intro thread in the forum TQ) and you might be surprised at how good value they are. Better to start elsewhere in Europe than the UK on a cost basis however.

The South American stuff would give you issues with OneWorld, not sure about Star Alliance , but they are not insurmountable with ‘self booked surface sectors’.

This post has been removed at the author's request.

AKL to SCL looks complicated with both ( more so since LATAM left One World) but again there are ways around this with a bit of planning.

Would this be in economy?

You'd have to pay out of pocket for flights within South America if you chose a Oneworld RTW, but it can still offer good value. One-way economy fares from Santiago to, say, Lima, Rio or BA are all in the £50 - £100 range, so not deal breakers. The base price for a four-continent Oneworld RTW beginning in the UK is £2100; if you hopped a flight to Norway the same ticket would have a base price of £1509. (Taxes and fees would be in addition to that and would depend on your route, stopover points, and choice of airlines .)

Here's an imaginary route (one of thousands of permutations) that would be eligible. The ticket allows up to 16 flights in the space of 12 months; the imaginary route shows you starting and ending in Norway, with a long stopover back in the UK, followed by a separate trip (to Doha in this example, but could be anywhere in Europe, the Middle East or Mediterranean Africa) before ending back in Norway before the ticket turns back into a pumpkin. See the details in my old sticky thread, which is still largely current.

https://tinyurl.com/OSLPERSCL

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New train services planned between London and Greater Manchester

Six return trains a day will run between london euston and rochdale via manchester victoria, article bookmarked.

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Rochdale will have a direct London link via Manchester Victoria for the first time since 2000

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New train services between London and Greater Manchester could be launched to encourage more people to switch from road travel to rail.

Transport company FirstGroup announced its plan to run six return trains a day between London Euston and Rochdale via Manchester Victoria .

The last time Rochdale had a direct London link via the Manchester city centre station was in 2000.

Services would also call at Eccles , Newton-le-Willows and Warrington Bank Quay. The station at Eccles provides connectivity for Salford’s MediaCity area.

FirstGroup said it would use new UK-built trains powered by electricity and batteries.

It estimates the services, which could begin from 2027, would provide 1.6 million people in the North West with a “convenient and competitively priced direct rail service to London from stations that are more local to them”, helping to stimulate a shift in transport mode from coach and car travel to rail.

The services would be operated under FirstGroup’s Lumo brand, which currently runs between London King’s Cross and Edinburgh.

Lumo, which was launched in October 2021, runs on an open access basis, meaning it receives no taxpayer-funded subsidies and takes on all revenue risk.

Most train operators in England are paid a management fee, with the UK Government holding responsibility for costs and revenue.

FirstGroup also runs open access operator Hull Trains.

The company has submitted an application to the Office of Rail and Road seeking permission to launch the London-Rochdale route.

FirstGroup chief executive Graham Sutherland said: “We have extensive experience of running open access rail operations and we want to bring our successful Lumo service to this new route that connects Rochdale and London.

“We have seen the level of growth and opportunity that is possible with open access, as well as the positive effect it has on the wider market, including economic and environmental benefits.

“In addition, the new service will help to drive modal shift from road to rail between the North West and London.

“We will be working closely with stakeholders as we build our application and our case for this new service.”

This brings the number of proposed new open access rail routes in Britain to eight.

The Government is planning measures to encourage further schemes, such as providing more certainty over the duration of the application assessments, reconsidering the required balance of costs between taxpayers and operators, and ensuring all unused track access slots are made available.

Rail minister Huw Merriman told the PA news agency last month that open access services “give more choice to customers, and that crucially increases the number of passengers that we get”.

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