What to Expect When You Land in London

Landing in London can feel like stepping into organized chaos — especially if it’s your first time. The airports are huge, the signs are clear but endless, and there’s always someone rushing past you with purpose. Don’t panic. Take your time.

After immigration, you’ll notice how smooth everything is once you slow down a bit. Heathrow and Gatwick both have plenty of help desks — and honestly, the staff are used to tired travelers asking the same questions a hundred times a day.

Getting into the city? If you’re carrying light luggage, the Heathrow Express or Gatwick Express train is fast and reliable. But if you’re jet-lagged and just want peace, a pre-booked taxi or an Uber might be worth the few extra pounds.

One small tip: keep a contactless bank card or phone wallet handy. Almost everything — the Tube, buses, even small cafés — takes tap payments. It saves time and spares you from hunting for change when you’re still half-awake from your flight.

Oh, and the weather? Let’s just say it’s safer to carry an umbrella than to assume it’s “clear all day.”