London Transport

There are several well-known methods of public transport in London, from the red double-decker buses to the black cabs. The London Underground, built in the last century, is expanding all the time and reaches practically every corner of the capital. Traveling anywhere during rush hour (8 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.) is likely to take much longer.

Taxi

Licensed London taxis are known as black cabs. If the yellow 'For Hire' sign is switched on they can be hailed on the street. Radio Taxis (+020 7272-0272) and Dial a Cab (+020 7253-5000) both run 24-hour services for black cabs.

Minicabs are a cheaper alternative, particularly at night and during weekends. Be sure to go with a reputable firm as there are many unlicensed cabs around. Addison Lee (+020 7387- 8888) is one of the largest and most reliable companies. Women traveling on their own may feel safer calling Lady Cabs (+020 7254-3501 or +020 7923-7599) or My Fare Lady (+020 7379-9130), both of which only employ women drivers.

The Underground

Traveling by 'tube' is the fastest way to get around the city. If you're planning a series of journeys, it's best to purchase a Travelcard. These are available for one day, one week, one month or for weekends (though not valid before 9:30 a.m. on weekdays). Travelcards give you unlimited travel in the zones you select and can be used on the underground, buses (except N-prefixed night buses), rail services, Docklands Light Railway and some Green Line bus services. If you plan to travel during peak times then a One-Day LT card is the most cost-effective option. Beware of on-the- spot fines of £10 for traveling without a valid ticket. For information on all of London Transport services call +020 7222-1234 or check out their website: www.londontransport.co.uk

Buses

Traveling by bus allows you to see the city rather than whisking you along beneath it. There is an extensive network of bus routes, often linking with underground services. You can check out their website: www.londontransport.co.uk

Night Buses

Night buses are the only form of public transport that runs throughout the night. They are often an entertaining way to travel and run from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. - about once an hour on most routes. Fares from central London start from £1.50.

Driving

London is faced with the same dilemma of many cities: Where to park? Fines for parking illegally are very high and you run the risk of being clamped, a sure way to waste even more time and money.

Car Hire

To hire a car you must have held a full license for at least one year. Overseas visitor's current licenses are valid in the U.K. for one year. Speed limits vary, watch out for the signs as the police are clamping down on speeding. On motorways, the speed limit is 70 mph. Most major car rental firms have branches at the airports and in the city. Try Avis (+0990 900-500; www.avis.com). You must be over 23. Chauffeur-driven cars are also available. Eurocar (BCR 1-3 Leeke Street WC1; +020 7833-4607) also require drivers to be over 23.