The globe acclaims London as a wonderland for its scenic landscapes, historical monuments and unlimited entertainment. A trip around the whole of London might cost a lot and if you are looking for a comfortable journey, it’s advisable to use a travel card.
The travel card is like any other prepaid card, which you can top up with cash periodically. Using this card will provide you transportation at a cheaper price. While a single fare by Train costs £4, it is just £1.50 with a travel card.
There are two types of cards available in London. The ‘Off-Peak’ card is valid only after 09.30 Monday to Friday, weekends and public holidays whereas the ‘Anytime’ card doesn’t have any travel time restrictions. Both the cards are valid on all trains, underground, Docklands Light Railway, Tramlink and bus services within zone limits.
These days, Oyster cards are the most commonly preferred travel cards used in London and are available at many places in London
Online at http://tfl.gov.uk/oyster
Tube station ticket offices
Over 2,200 Oyster ticket stops
National Rail ticket offices
8 London Travel Information Centres
By phone on 0845 330 9876
Visitors can buy any Card at London underground ticket offices and Local retail ticket points. Apart from these centres, signboards at many shops, newsagents and advertising companies indicate the sales of cards at the same price available in Underground stations.
Usually, visitors prefer using one day or three day Cards that are valid on all public transport options within set zones.
There are certain conditions involved in the usage of Cards.
If you have used the card before 9.30, then you will have to pay more. Children under 16 years of age can travel on buses for free. For children, a card worth 1 pound gives them access to all zones. It is enough if you purchase a card for zones 1 & 2 as you can use it for buses on all zones. Almost all the sightseeing areas are located in Zone 1, which can be reached easily from any London bus terminus.
Well, you have your card now. What’s next? It’s time to enjoy Covent Garden, Oxford Street, Bond Street and Regent Street to catch a sight of Selfridges, Liberty of London and House of Fraser. Especially during the Christmas season, it’s a pleasant experience to see London embellished with colours and lights.