Things London Tourists ALWAYS Overpay For 🤦🏽‍♀️| Love and London

Planning to visit London? Having helped first-time visitors to London for a long time now, there are quite a few things that I see people ALWAYS overpay for when they visit London. They make the mistake of paying too much money because they're nervous about an element of their trip, they think they are getting a good deal while they aren't actually, or they get hit by something made specifically for tourists who don't know any better...
So in this video I'm talking you through the most common things that London tourists always pay too much money for when they come to visit London for the first time. I've also included contributions from our Instagram community 😎
Related London videos to watch:
15 Mistakes London Tourists Always Make: • 15 Important Things to...
Tourist Traps to Avoid in London: • London's Worst Tourist...
Cool Areas to Visit in London (that you never heard of): • Cool Areas to Visit in...
Book Your London Hotel series: • Important Things to Kn...
Shop all of my London travel guides in the Love and London shop: shop.loveandlondon.com/
Get my FREE London 101 Guide: loveandlondon.com/london-101-guide-main?
Get my 3-Day London Itinerary, which has lots of local gems you can eat at near the touristy attractions: shop.loveandlondon.com/produc...
Free London 101 Guide for first-time London visitors: goo.gl/Eh3HP3
Your first 3 days in London, completely planned for you: shop.loveandlondon.com/produc...
Daily London-y stuff on Instagram: / loveandlondon
London resources (airport transfers, SIM cards, etc.): goo.gl/nsZZ64
How to say thanks for the free advice: loveandlondon.com/how-to-say-...
About Love and London:
I'm Jess, I've lived in London for many years, and this channel is a London travel guide for anyone visiting the city that wants to experience it like you live here. Beyond talking about the usual London attractions, I show you some of the cooler things to do in London, that most travel guides don't mention. Watch my videos and you'll feel like you've got a Londoner friend telling you the best kept secrets in the city.

[@thedallydiaries]

I've been to Tower of London every single time I've been in London and never get tired of it! One of the whole reasons I love London is for the history. To me, the price is 100% worth it.

[@loveandlondon]

That's the most important thing! That it's worth it to YOU

[@BadazzShovelhead]

100% agree I am in London all the time and the history is my favorite part. I go for work quarterly and am lucky enough to spend 3-4 weeks each time and I love it. Favorite city in the world.

[@Tulsa_Time]

Same🥰

[@bomba1367]

I love visiting the tower..I sit in the chapel and just meditate ..all the beautiful history

[@kantalarski]

I love the Tower as well.

[@coldwinters4973]

I didn’t want to stress out over transportation - so in all my trips to London, I would just WALK all the time! Very good for my health as well! 🙂

[@mrb2643]

Is it easy to navigate and from Heathrow airport to hotels in central London via tube? And can you get a sim card with data relatively easy ?

[@shalevedna]

London is the largest capital in Europe and actually is not walkable, unlike Paris or Rome. I tried and it did not work. I used buses. Paddington station has bus maps.

[@shalevedna]

I planned for 2 hours at the Tower but ended spending 5. But then I am a historian.

[@mytmyt]

Re: the Heathrow Express. Our family used the Heathrow Express last time in London, and I would definitely use it again. Only 15 minutes to Paddington. On a previous trip we took the regular tube, which took over an hour, was extremely crowded, was difficult to navigate with luggage, and of course stopped at every station. We are usually tired and cranky after getting off a trans-Atlantic flight and just want to get to our hotel as fast as possible. As I recall, we paid about 20 pounds per person for one way, but for us it was worth it.

[@bettym5148]

For me too I used Heathrow express when I went to visit London in 2019 summer and with all of the traffic in Heathrow and the taxis would’ve been way more expensive but with all my luggage it was a lot easier to take the Heathrow express and it was 20 bucks or 20 pounds I think. Extremely easy to navigate plus it was an easy way to get my oyster card before getting into the city very quick and pleasant ride not too crowded and you got to view a little bit of the outskirts of London on the way into London into Paddington which was perfect and for the hotel from Paddington station was about 10 bucks so not too bad. Plus the cabdrivers help you with some helpful hints about the city and navigating through it plus they help you with your luggage. However once you are already situated in your hotel I agree with her the tube is very easy to navigate through and once you get used to the stations it’s a nice cheap way to get around the entire city no matter what tourist attractions you want to go to and it’s very easy to deal with kind of like New York.

[@carlosyamara]

I couldn’t have said it better myself. When we visited we took the Heathrow Express and got off near Russell Square, it was a hop, skip and a jump to our hotel, great experience.

[@dantorres506]

It really depends on where you're headed. If you're heading to the Kensington area it is much better to just take the blue line.

[@lgempet2869]

My sentiments exactly! As a visitor to London & after a long transatlantic flight, I need convenience & I’m willing to pay a bit more for it (& already recognizing that I am). You don’t want to have to deal w/crowds, go searching for the right tube line w/baggage & others accompanying you. You just want to get to your hotel in Central London as quickly & w/as few complications as possible. The Heathrow Express or Gatwick Express is WELL worth it to avoid the aforementioned issues. Believe me, I compensate in MANY other ways: one, by not eating at expensive restaurants (not a “big” eater anyway), etc., etc.

[@Trevor.Adams640]

Best way to get around London is to walk - you get to know your way around and you see all the sights. Buses are also cheap and you also get to see the sights, but they can be slow. I once caught a bus from Waterloo to Piccadilly Circus and I could have walked it faster.

[@coldwinters4973]

My first time in London I stayed in Trafalgar Square (the Citadines had reasonably priced accommodation) - most major tourist attractions were within WALKING distance!

[@rodriguezg100]

Taking public transportation isn't as bad as people might think. I actually enjoyed taking the tube and the buses. lol I always loved hearing, "Mind the gap between the train and the platform" :D

[@mytmyt]

Agreed. On our last trip to London we really got into taking the buses. You can see so much and I felt better oriented to the city having actually travelled through it rather than under it. The tube is still great tho, especially for the longer distances.

[@mollyfinnegan9315]

Dobby is a free elf London has the best transportation system I have ever seen. It is so easy to get around. No need for a car or taxi while there. I love it

[@hubriswonk]

of course! public transportation is so much fun!

[@MyAccountForCommenting]

I'm overwhelmed by all this useful info in all these videos. 😅 One reason people stay in a recognizable American chain hotel is because they are smartly earning/using loyalty points and possibly taking advantage of the perks they get due to their preferred status as loyalists (early checkin, late checkout, room upgrades, executive lounge access, credit for dining, etc.). All this can make these hotels a better deal than off-brands with less expensive rates.

[@biancaorta7897]

We purchased The London Pass before we went to London, that was very helpful for us. We enjoyed The Tower of London and the Bridge.

[@alicedick155]

These are so informative, and you are the first I came across who addressed them.

[@nurisloga]

I agree with most things you say but I went to the Tower of London and it was amazing. I was considering going to madame tussauds this time but you convinced me not to

[@Rackelhane]

This channel is great. Thank you so much and keep up the good work.❤

[@glassescat9]

Great video! Love the audience contributions! Such a great idea!

[@loveandlondon]

Thanks for watching!! :)

[@Sarah-nd2gy]

For Afternoon tea, The Charlie & The Chocolate Factory afternoon tea experience at One Aldwych was really lovely, very novel and my friend and I thoroughly enjoyed it The Savoy, while expensive, is definitely an experience to have of you can afford it and one of the few things I would recommend taking a black cab for (again , if you can afford it). Pulling up into that cul-de-sac and having the Doorman open the door for you, waiting in the very elegant anti room before being taken in to a not at all overcrowded room with the piano playing, the excellent food and excellent service. It's probably more of a special occasion experience (we went for my Mum's 70th) but it was so worth it.

[@loveandlondon]

Yes how could I forget the One Aldwych! Great for both kids and adults. The Savoy I found nice but not quite worth the price tag.

[@CoroaEntertainment]

If a person were to buy those attractions separately, yes, I would agree that they are mostly overpriced.... but, quite a few of them can be purchased in a package deal (2, 3 or more) that almost cuts their regular individual price in half. There are also discounts available (if a person took the tube/train into London), where the train/tube ticket allows you to get a discount on some of these attractions. Imo, the only people that overpay for stuff while on vacation, are the ones that don't do thier homework before traveling. Use the web and you'll be less likely to overpay for many things while there (including savings on excursions to things like Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, etc).

[@thomasgilbert9347]

Nice video. Your information is always helpful.

[@loveandlondon]

Thanks for watching Thomas 😎

[@DenaInWyo]

I booked a car service (Blackberry, but there are several) to get from the airport to my hotel near the Tower. It was £50, pre-booked, and I felt it was well worth it. Yes, I could have done it cheaper on the tube but it was nice to have someone waiting to collect me after that flight, and it just gave me a nice hour to get myself together and look at the scenery as we drove. Definitely cheaper than a cab or uber and a nice middle ground option. Also nice not to struggle with luggage on the tube and stairs. Definitely didn't spend much on taxis though. The tube and buses are super easy to figure out with the city mapper app.

[@loveandlondon]

Yes taxi can definitely be ok! It just depends on your budget and where your hotel is located.

[@DenaInWyo]

@@loveandlondon It's not a taxi, but a car service you book ahead of time. Probably half or less the price of a taxi. They are waiting for you with a little sign when you get to the baggage claim, and blissfully lead you to a car while toting your luggage for you, then drive you to wherever you need to be.

[@Justbooksmusiccatsandapen]

Good to see you again Jess! Miss your smiling face! I hope this time finds you well.

[@loveandlondon]

Thank you! Hope you're well too :)

[@Caimille]

Thanks to you, I didn't overpay for transportation. Taking the tube from, to LHR and also in the city, was so convenient and much more affordable than taking taxis. My husband and I had afternoon tea at Fortnum and Mason and we really enjoyed it. I thought it was worth the money. We'll try Claridge's next time.

[@loveandlondon]

Fab, thanks for watching!! :)

[@shantiwilliams6850]

So many gems you’re paying forward. You are a God send! Thank you for amazing tips 🙏🙏 God bless

[@loveandlondon]

You're so welcome! Thanks for watching! More gems in my guides in my shop btw: shop.loveandlondon.com

[@celestelmcdonald]

when I was in London over 12 months ago we stayed at 2 places the Beaconsfield hotel (north London and 10 minutes walk from Manor House Station) and the Ibis London Earls Court (about a 20-minute walk from Earls Court Station). The Ibis was recommended to us by a relative.

[@ceparksromanceharps]

Good tips shared in your informative video; planning a Fall trip to London. Not my first trip; however it's been many years, so I'm catching up on what has changed. Will watch more of your videos. Well done!

[@loveandlondon]

Welcome to the family Chris😎

[@JeevesTCW]

Good advice as always Jess. BTW I travel to London from Bushey (nr Watford zone 8) which costs me just under £13 a day on an Oyster card for trains/tube/buses all day, but there are better deals on Daily Travel Tickets if there are 3 of you as you pay £27 for all 3 tickets so £9 a person. Rich.

[@lindalinnell5199]

I lead students to London and always research group tickets. Often if I buy family sets of tickets we end up spending a lot less than group tickets. The Tower of London is one example. Research, research, research.

[@robinrichards4855]

Thanks for continuing to post videos. We are hoping to keep our July airline reservations. Fingers crossed.

[@loveandlondon]

Thank YOU for continuing to watch Robin!

[@sapirkandalker793]

Robin Richards I hope you will be able to go to London.

[@incubus_the_man]

I like how you leave the bloopers. I'm the exact same way when recording myself speaking on a subject.

[@lavayuki]

I live in the NW but go to London a lot for work or events, and have overpaid for afternoon tea at Sanderson only because it was alice in the wonderland, the Heathrow express because the tube takes too long but is much cheaper, and of course food/drink. I also took a taxi to Cambridge once which cost tons

[@barry3573]

Another great video Jess with good info. When I went to London I walked almost everywhere and took the tube. The people that work there are very nice and helpful. I stayed at a small boutique style hotel in Kensington and it was very nice. Can't wait to go back

[@loveandlondon]

Thanks Barry!! :)

[@amyw6808]

South Kensington is a great place for boutique hotels and nice cafes

[@lynnbrock1485]

Could you share the name of the hotel please?

[@maggie2529]

I went to London in September of 2019 and stayed in kings cross at point a hotel and my experience was amazing! I traveled by the tube and the bus and had no issues 😀 waking was my most travel...but I did a ton of research before I went! Thanks to your videos 😚 I never went to central London to get food or drinks! Stayed local and did research! It was my first solo international travel too! 🤩 it was awesome and can’t wait to go back after this mess! Bottom line....do your research 😊

[@PhoebeLam11]

Ah yes! I’ve stayed at point a hotel as well when I visited London back in May 2019, the staff were very friendly and helpful. The location of point a hotel is very convient too, it’s a 5-7 mins walk to the kings cross station. It’s not that expensive for its location and the high quality of staff , it’s definitely worth the price!! I’d definitely stay there again when I go to London next time!!

[@loveandlondon]

Glad you had such a good time Bobbie!

[@lucyeloise5783]

Great video. Travelodge is always great. Clean and cheap.

[@peterg957]

Hi Jess... I hope you are safe and well especially with this Coronavirus Pandemic on the rampage... Take care Poppet...

[@eickmeye]

We went to Sketch for tea and loved it. We let our artistic teen daughter pick some London experiences that she wanted, and one of them was tea. She and we watched a lot of KZbin videos with reviews of Sketch and traditional places. She wanted the "fun" artsy atmosphere of tea in the pink Gallery at Sketch, so we went in knowing that it would be an expensive and quirky experience. After our research, it was exactly what we expected and so the whole family had a great time and we would like to return to Sketch on our next trip to London. Sketch is not for everyone, particularly if you are a purist who wants a traditional experience, with restrooms that aren't shaped like egg pods, or, as Jess noted, if you have dietary needs that Sketch may not be able to accommodate.

[@joits]

Yeah I went to sketch a few years ago knowing full well it was going to be traditional, but I wanted the Afternoon Tea experience as well as being in a spot that would make for great photos so it was definitely worth it for the group of people I was with. Plus they had unlimited sandwich refills (not sure if that's still the case now).

[@mr51406]

Nice to see you Jess. Keep up the good work! I hope to get back to London ASAP. ⭐️☮️🇨🇦❤️🇬🇧🌈 I had afternoon tea at Tate Britain. Not bad but not an experience. If I may hypothesize: I think many people, especially Americans, are timid about taking the tube or the bus (best value!) is because most cities and towns in the US have bad or nonexistent transit systems. (It’s not a timidity New Yorkers or Montrealers for example would have.) No reason to be timid: Londoners are very friendly and love to help a stray tourist in the tube! In Montreal it’s a given that one gets around by Métro. In fact to get to the site of the Formula 1 Grand Prix race track, one MUST take the metro. So I’ve always thought of the people from Houston or Indianapolis who wouldn’t/couldn’t take transit in their daily lives taking our clean, lovely, frequent subway and telling themselves: “Why can’t we have something like this at home?” Meanwhile I suggest Geoff Marshall’s videos on the London tube for those who want extra info and secrets, so they not only take the the tube, but also enjoy it!

[@loveandlondon]

Thanks so much Frank! Yes definitely... I get a lot of comments from people who have never taken public transport before.

[@hubriswonk]

It would be nice to have trains in Houston and they are a few, but the idea was killed in the 80's for HOV lanes.

[@glassescat9]

When in Edinburgh we bought a hop on hop off bus pass. Mostly because we didn’t know how their transportation worked and it seemed like a good way to get round the city. It was not worth it. We ended up taking it only a couple of times and realized we could walk from our hotel to most of the places we wanted to go.

[@loveandlondon]

Yeah Edinburgh is so walkable! A lot of people seem to buy those in lieu of using public transport, without realising that there are only a couple specific routes and therefore they aren't good to use for anything beyond sightseeing while sitting down!

[@michaelmonn9308]

Been to London a few times. Can't say I've really been surprised by the costs. It's a big city and you pay accordingly. Just do plenty of research ahead of time and you'll be fine. Public transit (buses, the tube, DLR, The overground, etc.) is easy to navigate and very user friendly for tourists. Just act like you belong and nobody bothers you.

[@lavayuki]

When I went to London I just did all the free stuff except the Warner Bros Harry Potter studios, which was worth every penny tbh. I never used a taxi in London before, but am guilty of overspending on food at expensive restaurants. I paid £50 for Alice in the wonderland afternoon tea at Sanderson as well. I always get the Heathrow Express, and then the Tube. I used to use the underground Piccadilly line but it was crowded with a suitcase and took an hour

[@loveandlondon]

That's the thing about food and drink though-- if you enjoyed the tea at the Sanderson, then it's worth the money for you :)

[@lavayuki]

@@loveandlondon It was by far the best afternoon I ever had, the Alice in Wonderland themed sweets looked as good as they tasted :)

[@ahsanbasha3553]

💛 the video. I feel very comfortable around London now but still get neat little tips from you. I usually take the LHR Express when arriving in London and the Piccadilly line leaving. I never knew about the advance purchase discount though! Perfect!! Wonder how it compares to taking the new Elizabeth line.

[@loveandlondon]

Watch my video to see what the Elizabeth line is like ;) kzbin.info/www/bejne/pnqofHlroNZ9pJY&t

[@JaniceInFrance]

Love your channel…. Just found it. Would love a video on Christmas

[@jonathanwood9000]

Hi just a note about Sketch. We went for afternoon tea, my wife is vegetarian and gluten free. We paid nearly £180 and felt the service and food was very mediocre. The staff weren’t very friendly when challenging the service we received.

[@1CelloOne]

Hi, for what it's worth - we stayed at Marriott Hotel Kensington London and it was very much worth it. Free breakfast every morning because of status with rewards. Full service breakfast - it was delicious. Next time might try and stay at a B&B. I paid attention to your videos and bought an Oyster card for 7 days. Only had to add 5 British pounds, it was enough for nine days of travel. Also, the Harry Potter museum was worth every penny. We purchased all of our tickets to see everything in London, before we left the states. I also took your advice and studied the tube map - we got turned around a few times but people at the stations helped get us back on track. Thank you for doing what you do!

[@loveandlondon]

Thanks so much for watching!!

[@kimm3473]

We had to leave London early due to the pandemic and I’m already planning my trip back! Thanks for continuing to post. It is a bright spot in my day. ❤️

[@loveandlondon]

Aw you're very welcome Kim, thank you so much for continuing to watch!

[@supernatural9r406]

I ll be in London over Christmas and New Years Eve. Watching tons of ypur Videos haha . Liked and subed .

[@loveandlondon]

Thanks for watching!

[@dav264]

Great video. With regard to hotels, we had a great experience at The Ampersand Hotel in South Kensington. It's very nice and steps away from the South Kensington tube station. And you can't do much better, in terms of neighborhood, than South Kensington. It high end, without being snooty, and quiet.

[@loveandlondon]

It's a beautiful hotel. Thanks for watching!

[@deacon1771]

Go for it on showing the openings of pubs & restaurants 👍🏼👏🏼👏🏼❤️

[@loveandlondon]

Coming next week Robert!

[@deacon1771]

Love and London look forward to it 👍🏼

[@csjames69]

An absolute must when we visit London in 2022 is a visit to a pub and to drink a pint. We have identified a few in the east of London. Cheers!

[@loveandlondon]

Nice! Thanks for watching Charles.

[@ElliottJMiller]

Great videos

[@gloriabloise1618]

I know you mentioned the London eye in the one.. I was there last June and I didn't do it but def wish I did! I think next time around it ill have to do it :). Great vid!

[@loveandlondon]

Thanks for watching Gloria

[@sophieho9415]

Hi from Antwerp! Love your videos

[@loveandlondon]

I studied abroad in Antwerp!!

[@lisastabfurth5448]

Just returned from London two weeks ago. The Cutty Sark was well worth it. A docent gave a knot tying demonstration. We felt the Royal observatory was not worth it at all. Churchills Chartwell residence in the country was worth it. My husband planned all our activities. He’s a history buff. Our Buckingham Palace tour was scheduled the Monday after the Queen died but of course it was cancelled. We also loved the Tower Hill. It was worth it for us. Again history buffs.

[@loveandlondon]

Yeah totally if that's what you're into, go for it! lots of history to explore here

[@stephenparker6362]

Hi, Jess, another really useful video. Personally I would never visit Madame Tausauds, I can not understand the point of looking at wax models of people however lifelike they are. You are right if it's not something you're interested in dont bother to visit it just because it's a famous attraction. I would never think of visiting the Tower of London. If you want to eat near the Tower you may need to apply for a mortgage. I was surprised someone said museums were expensive most of the big ones are free, If you're in Zone 1 and you have a trip of two or even three stations on the tube save your money it's almost certainly an easy walk and you'll see more of the city. Listen to Jess she knows what she is talking about. Stay safe. Looking forward to your next video soon.

[@loveandlondon]

Thanks for watching Stephen!

[@ahsanbasha3553]

Also to get an interesting slice of history that is inexpensive, i enjoyed the Old Operating Theatre museum. Interesting view of early surgeries in a cool setting

[@loveandlondon]

yes!

[@amyw6808]

Is that the one at St Thomas’s? We went there on a school trip. It was fab.

[@davidpeasley]

Oh yes, check out her guides - they are dummy proof and also spot on.

[@loveandlondon]

Thank you Dave, as always!

[@mck1029]

Another NY-er who transplanted to London here! Black cabs are great when you have tons of luggage because the interior is massive- but for any other reason I have no idea why you would take one! They’re insanely overpriced compared to the tube and Uber.

[@paulh7360]

If you need to be somewhere fast you can’t beat a black cab, the drivers have passed a test known as the knowledge of London which means they can get you anywhere without looking at a phone also you can fit 5 to 6 persons in a real taxi so if fare is split it’s actually very cheap also taxis can drive in bus lanes and use bus only roads and turn arounds, if your solo or not too wealthy go for the bus or tube 😁 I would avoid Uber in London though I see so many smashed up Prius cars around I now have a fear of Uber drivers lol.

[@timhaley8298]

I definitely over paid for some meals. I noticeably jolted when told the price of an ice cream cone while walking through Hype park. But what i spent the most on was my umbrella from James Smith &sons. I don't regret it and I researched the best souvenirs for weeks leading up to the trip. It was a great experience and absolutely loved the place. I'd love to see something in one of your videos about it.

[@loveandlondon]

That's great Tim-- I've paid a lot of money for certain things or experiences but they were worth it because of various reasons. The opposite can happen too. Just depends on the person doesn't it?

[@timhaley8298]

@@loveandlondon I agree. I think it matters a lot about what you're looking for and what type of experience is you wanting. Some people might think a two-hour walking Harry Potter tour to see the backdrop of one scene in one movie is worth it where others might think that's a huge waste of time. It's all perspective.

[@filipdostal381]

I always overpay for gifts for my family and friends.

[@davetye]

I think the Gatwick Express largely exists so that tourists don't have to worry about Southern and Thameslink trains also using the same station but going to different London termini - Victoria and London Bridge (and beyond) respectively. National rail in the UK can be very confusing.

[@sandraalberto9749]

I used Blackberry car service for airport transfer and felt it was worth it. After a long flight I didn’t want the first thing I did to be dragging my luggage around the tube. I did use public transportation a lot and thought it was awesome and easy. I had a little trouble finding the right bus stops but felt better when a Londoner told me they also made mistakes with the bus system. I loved my recent trip to London and felt that with of the information available from Jess and others that I was well prepared. Just do your research. Thanks Jess!

[@loveandlondon]

Thanks Sandra!

[@lucienbandet2568]

I visited London in 2018, and we had lunch at the Hard Rock Café. Most expensive meal ever ! Your videos are just the best, greetings from Chile

[@andrewstorm8240]

Lucien bandet was it any good

[@lucienbandet2568]

@@andrewstorm8240 yes, I liked it, it was salmon with mushy peas and smth else, but I mean, it was definitely not worth the price.

[@loveandlondon]

Thank you so much Lucien!

[@soulak9055]

I used the Heathrow Express as well and for me it was worth it, i pre paid early so got a discounted ticket, i was travelling alone and flew 24 hours from Australia and i arrived at midday so wanted to getvto my hotel asap for a shower and taking adantage of this and using tgecrest of tge day to start exploring.

[@soulak9055]

Also i only used it one way as i left via Eurostar to Paris.

[@loveandlondon]

Your ticket was cheap then, and it got you to very close to where you needed to get to!

[@immmabea]

U R RIGHT. Sketch was bad, beautiful place but bad food and service, dont go! Thanks for this video!

[@loveandlondon]

Thanks for watching!

[@gmnewlook]

Still looking forward to our 48 hours in London during our family trip to Paris in July. Will definitely use TfL for our travels in London, got a pretty good deal on the hotel which is a few minutes from Victoria station with the 24 bus and 6-7 minute walk to Pimlico Tube station. As a transit enthusiast, the London Transport Museum is a must for me and we'll be looking at other places we want to see. My wife and I and our son all love history so we'll be looking for places that will interest us that way and I have a few places already in mind. As for food, I was suggested a chippe by a local that's in a non tourist area which I'm looking forward to trying. We'll be avoiding the big chains as much as possible and try top eat like the locals. Same thing for Paris, which is what we did when we went for our honeymoon in 2007. Is there a place I think I overpaid for something? Maybe Ripley's Believe it or Not in Niagara Falls, Ontario, been there, done that.

[@hubriswonk]

I overpaid for beer because I drank too much. I recently spent 5 days in London and I found most everything reasonably priced, but I did not do all the normal tourist activities and tried to be more of a local. I was very surprised by how much a Taxi was compared to Uber! My biggest hack was #11 bus line to see the tourist sites and avoid the tour busses :) :) :) My Air BB in Notting Hill was awesome and greatly enjoyed all of the cafes, shops and of course the market.

[@laurensmith933]

Honestly just hearing you say it’s ok to mess up is nice.

[@loveandlondon]

Happens all the time, it's no big deal ;) Thanks for watching!

[@desdemonamontague6815]

I didn't overpay for anything, in part because I watched almost all of your videos prior to going to London. Research, research, research....

[@loveandlondon]

Fab!!

[@MichaelMin65]

I have stayed at hub twice and coming again in September staying there again in ST James Westminster. Best place ever. .

[@UgoArinzeh]

Some great ones in here - London transport is so fast, and when not in peak times, can be really budget-friendly, otherwise - a good walk can help you find so many of London's hidden treasures at no cost! Loved the experiencing London through food element, I adore the culture of London so became a member of the V&A museum so I can attend exhibits for a much better price, while all of the museums are actually free to visit - which is amazing!

[@TheTonyedwards1958]

I have always stayed in the Paddington area and get the heathrow express tickets 90 days in advance, The New premier inn there is very nice. but dont expect any fancy service, The don't even have phones in the room. but they are clean and modern and some have AC. I like to base there because you have a few options in getting the tube at Paddington and also Edgeware street. All walking distance and the Canal area is quite nice (have you done a video on that area )

[@loveandlondon]

We have! Watch it here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jqS0kHufm9WZkLM

[@jl453]

I bought a travelcard on my Oyster card on my recent London trip because I knew how expensive the black cabs are. Unfortunately,I didn't know the Piccadilly Line doesn't open till 6am and was stuck with a black cab to Heathrow. Had I known I would've booked a flight after 6am.

[@loveandlondon]

Next time, make sure you adjust your journey search in Google Maps for the time when you'll be traveling. It would have picked up on that!

[@jl453]

@@loveandlondon Good to know thank you :)

[@otimitla]

I find that King's Cross is a great neighborhood for better priced B&Bs and independent hotels. You're still in the London but not the touristy, overpriced part of the city. Your also near the main train hub to get to Europe or anywhere in the UK.

[@chocolatecuban]

High tea at sketch, but I was warned so I can't complain really. To all future visitors, heed my warning! Jess DON'T DO IT! lol Taxis, the tube is so easy and affordable to use. Plus it is much cleaner than American public transit ( like New York and Chicago).

[@loveandlondon]

Haha THANK YOU Ariel!

[@chocolatecuban]

@@loveandlondon It was the least I could do. Your videos were essential when I visited this past fall.

[@BrendaBeatty]

I travelled during covid so the Gatwick express was not running - so i paid regular train fare both ways-8 pounds both ways. then i had an oyster card for the rest of the trip. in 11 days I paid 30pounds total for transit. good or bad i don't know - I loved every minute, and never felt ripped off or unsafe.

[@robertaborg1873]

Thanks Jess 🙃

[@loveandlondon]

Thanks for watching Roberta!

[@wvuken111]

Jess....have you done the high tea at the Sanderson yet? We did it in March 2020. It was definitely on the HIGH end of prices. However, it was elegant, unique, and good.

[@loveandlondon]

The Mad Hatters Afternoon Tea... yes if you have my itinerary, in there I tell you how to get the tea with a free cocktail and at a discounted price :)

[@hjonpark]

Love your channel Jess. You give out great information. In regards to ground transportation, I traveled to London with my wife and kids (age 4 & 9) in 2019 and we used the black cabs & Uber exclusively. We never used the Underground or buses. Didn't even bother buying an Oyster card. Yes, we overpaid. But if you consider that there were the four of us on each ride, we didn't overpay by that much. I'm estimating we overpaid by two or three times over the cheaper alternative (Underground and buses). We planned to do it this way on purpose because in previous years when we traveled in the UK we did utilize public transportation and it was a nightmare. When traveling with kids, using public transportation is a challenge. Trying to find the right Underground or bus stop, getting to that place from where we were, trying to maneuver the baby stroller (buggy) down the step and up the steps, trying to find the right spot to get on the metro or bus, fighting with the crowd of people, trying to find a seat on the bus or metro, then to repeat all that once we get to our stop, then once we exit, then we have to find where it is we're trying to get to ultimately. So for two or three times more money, we just hail a black cab (or Uber), tell the driver where we want to go and we're there at the main entrance directly. No fighting with crowds, no lines, no stairs. Yes, we overpaid. But so worth it when you're on vacation and time is precious. You don't want to ruin your vacation by fighting with crowds and wasting time. So in short, when traveling with little children I think it's well worth the extra money to take a cab. Saves you headaches and time. My two cents

[@loveandlondon]

Thanks so much for watching Jonathan!

[@WillDoesTransport]

Travelodge is a bit like Premier inn but a bit cheaper. Good for a budget trip.

[@elixorvideos]

I've watched several of your videos now and they're extremely helpful :) I've just noticed that you're American, or at least sound American.

[@loveandlondon]

Yup! Glad to hear it, thanks so much for watching.

[@LtNduati]

This isn't London specific, as I'm going for the first time (hard to believe tbh) in about two weeks, for my second solo trip and 8th country, but to this day, including a 4 country European travel filled year in 2018+ Montreal Canada, and 2019 (my first-ever solo trip) was to Berlin (meine lieblingsstadt "my favorite city"), and an opportune unbeknownst to me return to Paris in Feb. 2020, The biggest overpay, by a country mile and a half was my airfare to Berlin in 2016 as my first international trip as a sophomore in college, that was with my friends. We paid $967 round-trip with 1 carry-on and 1-checked bag in economy class, no seat selection until check-in 23 hours before departure from New York to Berlin on Air Berlin less than 13 months before Air Berlin went bust. I've yet to pay that much roundtrip in economy, but I'm glad it was the first, and likely the last time, I ever make that mistake again. I've flown roundtrip premium economy and oneway business for a fraction of that both pre and post pandemic

[@javinye626]

Out of curiousity, have you been to the Mail Rail attraction at the Postal Museum? Do you personally think this attraction will appeal more to locals or foreigners?

[@kayleec780]

Def the London eye!! People tried to warn me but I did it anyways

[@loveandlondon]

Oh dear!

[@Foxbat_a]

I been at afternoon tea at Ting at the Shard, cost a lot, but was worth it

[@loveandlondon]

Yes I've been too! I liked it, best with a window view though :)

[@lorettabertoli3736]

well I definitely overpaid water during my first trip to Paris during the hot summer of 2003... gosh you were lucky to find it at less than 2 euros a 1/2litre bottle and you just couldn't avoid buying it anyway because we were literally melting...

[@loveandlondon]

That's a common one... but I think it would be easier to refill bottles now!

[@chriscarlton4863]

I believe the travel cards on the tube is because they are trying to encourage paperless tickets via contactless credit or oyster card so making this much cheaper but can't completely get rid of paper tickets for those who aren't comfortable with using these cards (e.g the elderly) If you aren't looking for luxury Travelodge and premier Inn are good chains that can normally offer good value in some good locations whilst ensuring cleanliness

[@alison9313]

Vanilla milkshake at Harrod's, there was NO VANILLA in it! It's possible that plain ice cream is just CALLED vanilla there in the UK? I've found others were the same. Sad, all that vanilla going unemployed. :)

[@loveandlondon]

What's plain ice cream? lol I am confused! ;)

[@alison9313]

@@loveandlondon If you want to try some bland, white, unvanilla'd ice cream, that ice cream shop near the stuffed animals can hook you up for about 8£, pleh. :) On a serious note, I hope your friends and family are well. I didn't want to move away from NYS but now I see why it was for the best. Hope all are well!

[@edkoehn6304]

Hi. I have enjoyed the great information you bring. Do you have any suggestions on how to buy cheap tickets for the entertainments in London? Buckingham, London Eye, War Rooms, Windsor, Winston, etc??? Thank you

[@loveandlondon]

Hi Ed! Have a look at this article, we talk through an attractions pass that helps save money: loveandlondon.com/london-pass-worth/

[@Murkelmaus75]

Thank you for the information😉 can you tell me how is the best way to go from stansted airport to the city...whats the best option? Thank you so much

[@loveandlondon]

Check Citymapper or Google Maps for your options!

[@Sarah-nd2gy]

It's a good point that things are only going to be worth the money if its an experience you personally will enjoy. I often will do a quick calculator in my head of why they charge what they charge (sometimes I can understand the reasoning for the cost, other times not) and some of the things that you mentioned in my view are worth the money a) because I can see what the money goes towards and b) I get real enjoyment out of those experiences (Tower of London & Harry Potter studio tour to name but two). However just going because they are there is not a reason to spend that money. Harry Potter for example- if you are a die hard fan of the books and films, you will absolutely love it (been twice & want to go again), but if you had only a passing interest in a couple of the films then unlikely you are going to get much out of it, in which case the price for you would be fairly hefty. Also always a good idea to work out when the quietest times to go are. A lot of tourist attractions become really difficult to get anything out of when they are so overcrowded you either cant see much through the sea of people or spend the entire time in a very long queue. Queues are inevitable, but if you can pick times when there will be less people you will see more and enjoy more. Try an avoid the school summer holidays - its the one time the locals will go to these places to get their kids out of the house during the 6 week break so its the double whammy. If its sunny weather, somewhere like the South Bank is a great place to go because you can see quite a few things from that point on the river, there is often free entertainment, fairs and other events going on and there are some quite good eateries nearby. Great place to go and you dont have to break the bank

[@loveandlondon]

Thanks for your comment Sarah! Yes the Southbank is part of my 3-Day London Itinerary for those who have it. Thanks for watching

[@tan92A]

I was in London for 3 wk. I use tube everyday. Is easy especially for English speaking people. I only use Uber at the Heathrow.

[@frankrodriguez977]

When I come I am taking all public transportation. I am stay 5 min from Heathrow airport. Close to the underground and buses to.

[@loveandlondon]

I wouldn't stay by Heathrow. There's nothing there and it's about 40 mins to central London on the tube.

[@lorettabertoli3736]

never say never but I think I'll never ever to to Madame Tussaud's. I've been to London many times and I never ever felt the "need" for that odd wax museum. I do like museums but Madame Tussaud's has nothing to do with London. Full stop. I went once to the Tower of London and yes, it was expensive, but you can find it just in London and I spent many hours there so it was definitely worth and I actually would like to go there again. about transportations and other things that depends on your interests and time available but this video is very helpful as usual, thanks Jess and stay safe everyone 'cause I'd like to come back to my London ASAP.♥

[@loveandlondon]

Thanks Loretta! :)

[@Rob.S-]

A pint still cost more in Toronto, even with conversion.

[@ChrisC30]

My first time in Philadelphia, I got a philly steak the first place I could find one. Worst idea. It was way over-priced, and was just nasty and unappetizing. So, I guess my over-priced tip would be if you want to get some food that a location is iconic for, do research before you go. Check out recommendations. I didn't, and lost out.

[@loveandlondon]

Yes I think that happens for people who want to try fish and chips. Thanks for watching!

[@susana.i.gonzalez9874]

I stayed near Chelsea and I will say I over paid my way back to the airport. It was £60 (80 usd) to go on the airport to the hotel and the day to fly back home I thought it would be cheaper to take the bus to the airport so the bus ended up taking us to Heathrow express. Biggest mistake ever!! It was cheaper to take the bu, but the Heathrow express tickets were 40usd extra for 2 people! One way!! So next time I’m taking the taxi to and from the airport.

[@loveandlondon]

Aw yes exactly. That's why it's good to use something like Citymapper that shows ticket prices!

[@nathalypachon2538]

SIM CARD. In the airport the cheapest one costs £30. Outside, cost just £1 and you can buy credit from £10 for the whole month.

[@marshahemmerich4875]

Is there still a discount code for the transportation course? I may be just missing it somewhere!

[@loveandlondon]

No sorry!

[@shalevedna]

Once I got a really cheap hotel close to paddy station. I ended up with bed bugs. The bathroom was so tiny I had to open the door so I can dry up.

[@loveandlondon]

Ew

[@CP-rn6sn]

Overpaid for excursion to Stonehenge/Bath. Stonehenge is not worth your time or money. You cannot get very close and the excursions are so rushed, you literally barely have time to get to the rocks, take a few pictures & get back to your bus. Bath is a long trip, but it is beautiful & serene. The drive to get there is also beautiful, as you get to see some lovely villages & landscape. If you can take a bus or train to Bath, skip Stonehenge.

[@loveandlondon]

Train to Bath is very easy :)

[@beersn0b]

Well, I had a trip planned to arrive one month from today in London and other parts of the UK. I'll likely have to cancel all two weeks of it. :-(

[@gwyneths3048]

Chris Valentine me too! it’s a tough time, but we’ll get through it

[@pamostman516]

Same here, I was suppose to fly out April 14. Finally cancelled the hotel last week after all hope is lost. But...I will visit ASAP.

[@loveandlondon]

Sad but at least you have your health! Stay well

[@Reignunlimited]

Chris Valentine ... Likely ???

[@dayana904]

hotel near Hampstead station is good choice? I will visit London in summer for one week. Thanks!

[@loveandlondon]

Hiya, all of our accommodation tips can be found here: loveandlondon.com/category/london-accommodations/

[@hannahwood5007]

Me and my hubby had such bad service in Sketch in the pink room the staff were horrible to us treated like trash forced me to have my own afternoon tea even when I can’t each much and I am gluten free and veggie . Food was so bland not worth it at all . It’s so sad and we had been about 5 times before and got amazing service but that was in the glade room if you go in the pink one well you will be robbed and conned . We was told they was going to do something and they never did we even sent a email and nope they are too up themselves.

[@helenstewart2085]

Loved the tower, but went in the middle of winter. Why do people visit London? That is the question people should ask themselves, visit what interests you. Last time the tube was down, Taxi was terrible price. This time my hotel is a £3 trip away. Right beside the one place I want to visit.

[@loveandlondon]

Yup! Always do what interests YOU the most. thanks for watching Helen!