How to save money on a trip to the UK

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(Lifestyle Today Thursday 31 August 2017)

How to save money on a trip to the UK

When planning a trip to the United Kingdom,

consider going in January, save your splurge for breakfast and tea,

and walk as often as possible (taxis can be expensive). ILLUSTRATION: New York Times

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Published: 4:00 AM, August 31, 2017

NEW YORK — A luxury vacation to the United Kingdom is not only for the deep-pocketed set, said Nicola Butler, the owner of NoteWorthy, a London travel company specialising in upscale trips around Britain.

Furthermore, Butler added, favourable exchange rates between the pound and your home currency would make the United Kingdom a more affordable destination in general. “There are other ways to enjoy a high-end trip without paying high-end prices,” she said.

Here are Butler’s top tips.

Book with a travel adviser

There is value to be had, Butler said, by booking your trip with a travel adviser who is part of a travel network such as American Express or Virtuoso. These advisers can get you extras such as breakfast, food and beverage credits, spa credits and sizeable welcome amenities (a bottle of brand-name champagne, for instance) at your hotel for free.

An adviser who specialises in Britain will also have the connections to arrange perks such as a backstage tour of a theatre or skipping the queue to enter a popular attraction.

When in cities, rely on walking to get around

Private cars and taxis can push up the cost of your trip significantly because fuel prices in Britain are high — a day of sightseeing in London by taxi, for example, can easily run a few hundred pounds. Save money, and get some exercise at the same time, by using walking as your main mode of transportation.

Fortunately, according to Butler, many cities in the Britain such as Bath, Oxford, Glasgow and York are best explored on foot. “You’ll discover hidden treasures and appreciate your surroundings more by walking,” she said. “The money you save is a bonus.”

Splurge on breakfast and tea

Britain is famous for its hearty breakfasts and lavish afternoon teas. Enjoying either or both traditions at a luxury hotel such as Claridge’s, in London, or The Balmoral Hotel, in Edinburgh, is 50 per cent less expensive than dinner in a pricey restaurant, but offers the same sense of extravagance. “You’ll enjoy delicious food and doting service, and spend time in a luxe ambience without breaking the bank,” Butler said.

Visit lesser-known areas

Sure, London and Edinburgh are popular destinations, but they are also expensive. A getaway to a less-discovered region, such as Norfolk (home to the Queen’s country retreat, Sandringham Estate) or Sussex (home to the 14th-century Bodiam Castle), on the other hand, is more manageable on a budget.

“You can stay in lovely, locally owned hotels, eat in nice restaurants and see great sights for 30 per cent less than what the same experience would cost you in a more touristy city,” Butler said.

Consider a January trip

If chilly days do not bother you, January is the cheapest month to take a vacation to Britain. “The hotels have the lowest prices, and since tourism is usually weak, restaurants, theatres and museums offer deals to boost business,” Butler said. THE NEW YORK TIMES