subject: Avoid Common Pitfalls Near Hotels In Central London [print this page] Just like all metropolitan cities, London has its own pitfalls for the travellers. If you are planning to travel to the capital, make sure that you do not ruin your visit due to them. With growing crime, mock auctions, and street sellers the central part of the city poses potential problems to the unprepared travellers.
While staying at hotels in Central London, you may be trapped in some unusual problems. So, it is important know about few potential pitfalls and avoid them carefully. Here is a quick guide to make you aware about what kind of problems you can face while roaming on Central London streets:
Street Sellers
Street sellers are not the regular market stallholders, but people who set up a suitcase, preferably in Oxford Street, selling what they claim as branded watches and perfumes at knockdown prices. Do not buy them. These perfumes may have designer labels but the perfume inside them is of inferior quality. It is a kind of illegal street trading. Do not be fooled by them and look out for police.
City Crimes
Most tourists in Central London hardly encounter any type of crime, as the area is heavily policed and usually busy. But pick pocketing still exist. These criminals generally prey travellers visiting areas like Oxford Street, Bond Street, and Southbank. They tend to work in teams and will bump into you, pick your bag or pocket and then pass it on to their team members. Do not keep your wallet in back pocket or do not leave your handbag open. Keep your valuables like money, credit cards, and other items close to you in the front of your body. Or use bags that sit across your chest or arms.
Beggars
Two decades back, beggars were never a problem in London. But in past few years, beggar population has grown in Central London. The area around hotels in Oxford Circus has many beggars who may spoil your shopping trip in the capital. Most of them are not aggressive and it is up to you to give them money or not. It is always better to give money to some charity homes instead of encouraging these beggars on London streets.
Theatre Ticket Hypes
London is city full of theatre and drama. Visitors coming to the West End will find number of people selling tickets outside the theatres for shows. Beware of these people as they offer tickets costing 5 to 10 times more than the face value of a ticket. Touts at these theatres are expensive too. If an average top price ticket is around 60 - 70, these touts may offer them for 300 for a couple. So, it is recommended to buy tickets from theatres box office or any authorised agency.
Be careful of all these frauds in the capital and stay safe to enjoy a wonderful vacation in London.
