London, one of the world's leading business capitals, attracts professionals from across the globe. With its rich history, diverse culture, and status as a global financial hub, London offers numerous opportunities for professional growth and networking. However, travelling for work or relocating to a new city for business can be overwhelming.

Whether you're headed to London for a business trip or setting up a new office, navigating the complexities of a bustling city can be daunting. Don’t worry—we’ve gathered the essential tips to help you master business travel in London. From finding the best places to stay and getting around efficiently to making the most of your downtime, this guide covers everything!

Skyline view of Central London, one of London's major business districts.

Navigating the City

London's Public Transportation: London’s public transportation system is renowned for its efficiency and extensive coverage. The Tube (London's underground train system) is the quickest way to get around, reaching all corners of the city. To make your journey smoother, invest in an Oyster card or use contactless payment methods, which offer discounted fares compared to paper tickets.

London red double-decker bus 148 driving past iconic landmarks in the city. — **Buses and Ride-Sharing**:

Buses offer scenic views while commuting, and taxis or ride-sharing apps like Uber provide more flexibility, though they can be pricier during peak hours.

Understanding the city's layout can save you time and stress. London is divided into several zones, with Zone 1 covering the central area where most business districts are located. Peak travel times can be hectic, typically between 7:30-9:30 AM and 5:00-7:00 PM on weekdays. If possible, schedule your meetings to avoid these periods, or plan to travel slightly earlier or later to beat the rush.

Cyclists using Santander Cycles bike-sharing scheme in central London. — **Walking and Cycling**:

Walking is often the quickest way to get around central London. Santander Cycles, the city's bike-sharing scheme, is a healthy and quick alternative for short trips.

Tip: For more details on how to get an Oyster card, visit Transport for London.

Accommodation

Choosing the right accommodation is crucial for a successful business trip. Serviced apartments are the ideal choice for business travellers because it offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. With Serviced Apartments, you get a home away from home experience, providing more space, privacy, and flexibility compared to traditional hotels. These apartments come fully furnished with equipped kitchens, high-speed Wi-Fi, and weekly housekeeping, ensuring a hassle-free stay.

Modern serviced apartment with a cozy living area and fully equipped kitchen.

Prime Locations: When choosing a Serviced Apartment, consider locations like Canary Wharf, the City of London, and South Bank, known for their central location and excellent connectivity.

Tip: Contact Sercasa today to book your stay to maximise your Business travel experience!

Staying Connected

Staying connected is crucial for business travellers, and London offers reliable Wi-Fi and mobile connectivity throughout the city. Most serviced apartments, including ours, provide high-speed internet, ensuring you can work efficiently from your apartment.

For international travellers, purchasing a local SIM card or an international mobile plan can help avoid high roaming charges. Popular network providers in the UK include EE, Vodafone, O2, and Three - these can easily be purchased at six international airports surrounding London: London City (LCY), Heathrow (LHR), Gatwick (LGW), Southend (SEN), Stansted (STN) and Luton (LTN).

eSim Options: eSIMs are a convenient alternative to physical SIM cards. They allow you to activate a cellular plan without having to insert a physical card into your phone. Many modern smartphones support eSIM technology. You can purchase and activate an eSIM plan from providers like EE, Vodafone, and O2 before or upon arrival in London.

Recommendation: ZIM is an eSIM marketplace where you can browse and purchase affordable eSIM data plans from over 190 countries.

Meeting and Workspaces

Co-working Spaces and Business Centres: Beyond Sercasa’s excellent workspaces, London has numerous co-working spaces like WeWork, Regus, and The Office Group offering hot desks, private offices, and communal areas ideal for networking.

Formal Meeting Venues: Central locations such as Covent Garden, Soho, and Shoreditch are excellent for booking conference facilities. Libraries like the British Library also offer dedicated workspaces.

Dining and Entertainment

Elegant restaurant setup perfect for business lunches and dinners. — **Business Dining**

London’s culinary scene is diverse, perfect for business lunches and dinners. Restaurants like The Ivy, Hawksmoor, and Duck & Waffle provide excellent atmospheres for business discussions

Vibrant nightlife scene in Soho, London with illuminated bars and bustling streets. — **After-Work Relaxation**

The West End offers world-class theatres, while Soho and Shoreditch are known for vibrant nightlife.

**Cultural Exploration**

Visit iconic landmarks like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, or the British Museum during your downtime.

Safety and Etiquette

General Safety Tips: London is generally safe, but stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas and at night. Keep your belongings secure, be aware of your surroundings, and use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services to ensure your safety. It's also helpful to familiarise yourself with the local emergency numbers such as 999 and 111.

Business Etiquette: Punctuality is valued. A firm handshake and maintaining eye contact reflect professionalism and confidence. Dressing smartly and respectfully for business occasions is also important, with business casual or formal attire being the norm.

Secure entry system of a serviced apartment building in London.

Recommendation:

Our serviced apartments prioritise your safety and comfort. With secure entry systems, and a responsive support team, we ensure that your stay is worry-free. We also provide detailed information about local customs and practices, helping you navigate the cultural nuances of doing business in London.

Work-Life Balance

Physical Activities: Balancing work commitments with personal well-being is essential for a successful business trip. London offers various opportunities to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Incorporate jogging in Regents Park, joining a yoga class, or using fitness facilities available in many serviced apartments to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

City Exploration: Exploring the city during your downtime can also be rewarding. Take a leisurely stroll along the South Bank, enjoy a river cruise on the Thames, or visit art galleries and museums. Engaging in these activities not only provides a break from work but also enriches your experience of the city.

The Most Crucial Tip: Selecting your home away from home. Choose Sercasa for a successful business trip. Our comprehensive services and prime locations ensure comfort and convenience. Contact us today to book your stay and experience the best of business travel in London!

Interior of a modern serviced apartment with a comfortable living area and a fully equipped kitchen. — **Ready to Experience Business Travel in London Like Never Before?**

Contact Sercasa now to book your stay and enjoy the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Visit Sercasa to learn more!

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