Just got back from our trip to London. Overall, it was a good trip and we were able to see everything on our must-see list. We did have a few glitches, especially in the beginning so I thought I would share some of my thoughts.
We arrived around the time of the tube bombing. We were out and around and didn't realize what had taken place until later. We had planned on using my husband's phone on a international plan through his work phone. Had bought a giffgaff sim for my phone. Short version, neither phone worked and by the time we realized there was a bombing incident, my mother was worried sick because we had not been able to contact her. We had to sign up for Viber to finally call her and let her know we were okay. Took three days to sort out the problem with my husband's phone, never got my giffgaff to work. In the meantime we somehow got separated from one another at a market without a plan to meet up and had some panicked moments. So my advice: have a back-up plan if you may need to contact someone in the States, and always have a plan where you will meet if you get separated.
We took two cards that did not charge international transaction fees, Sams Club Mastercard and Capital One Visa contactless. Even though I had made sure I had a pin number that would work overseas, always got a message that I had to sign. Once I found out how easy it was to use the contactless, we started using that one. (Also like Capital One better for a few other reasons, including customer service.) I had called and requested a contactless from Capital One about a month before my credit card was due to be renewed.
We stayed at a Premier Inn and were very pleased. Much like a hotel in the States, though no washcloths, which I had expected. There were no outlets in bathroom, but very good lighting. Very clean and felt very secure. Continental breakfast had wide variety of items.
Did get some of the chocolates and clotted cream fudge recommended by others on an earlier post. Bought some to bring back, but our bag did get kicked out for extra security search. Evidently others have had that experience bringing chocolates back, but not all.
We used Blackberry airport service from airport. My advice: If you have not been to London, or are not used to using public transport, use the airport transfer. Definitely worth it. If, after seeing how everything works, you can decide whether to use the airport car service or public transfer going back to airport.
A thought for those who are concerned about what to wear in London. Unless you are planning to visit an upscale establishment, just take a few rides on the tube. Okay now, are you really still concerned about what you are wearing? Wear pajamas, wear a tux, nobody is going to blink an eye.
Thanks again to all those who helped us plan our trip!