Travelling in London for business

London is an undisputed major business hub of Europe. Technology, art, music, fashion, e-commerce, whatever sector it may be, trade is undoubtedly the lifeblood of the capital. Indeed, a recent report by Deloitte revealed that London hosts over 40 percent of the European headquarters of the world’s largest companies, as well as over 60 percent of preeminent businesses with a headquarters in Europe picking London as their base.

Brexit may be looming, with a forecast of troublesome trade negotiations ahead, but for now, London remains one of the most visited cities in the world for business travel. So, what are the best ways of getting around the capital for business ventures? Here’s a round-up from the team at REAL Transfers of the best ways to travel.

Tube travel

If there are two things London is known for when it comes to travel, it is never-ending traffic, and a considerable lack of affordable parking spaces. Many people decide to opt for the London Underground instead, and who can blame them.

Save money and valuable wallet space on paper tickets and buy an Oyster Card instead, which you can order online or buy at certain tube stations, and tap-into the tube with ease. It also keeps an online record of all your transport activity, which makes it easier when it comes to submitting expense receipts. Alternatively, you also have the option of using your contactless card on the tube.

If you are worried about getting to that meeting on time, why not check out Transport for London’s journey planner ahead of your plans, or, thanks to the availability of Wi-Fi at many tube stations now, you can check whilst on the train if you so wish. The journey planner also works for London buses too.

Bus travel

A cheaper alternative than travelling by tube, but can often take a longer amount of time. It is important to remember that buses in London are now cash free, so payment must be via an Oyster card, contactless card, travel card or a pass.

Want to check buses? Act like a regular commuter and download Citymapper. It is one of the best apps out there for getting around London. Just type in your destination and Citymapper immediately offers a suggested route and transport, whether it be on bus, tube, train, (even Uber) whilst taking into account any real-time disruptions. You’ll thank us for it.

London taxis

London black cabs can be a reliable and comfortable way to travel around London on business. You can find out details on how to find a licensed minicab by visiting Transport for London’s Cabwise. Mini-cabs tend to be less expensive than black cabs, but you must make sure you order one prior to getting into a mini cab for your own safety. In any case, make sure to remember to ask for the receipt which you may need for claiming expenses at a later date.

Uber

A company that has hardly been without controversy in the last few months, but Uber is still up and running, and it’s incredibly efficient at getting you around the capital. Uber allows you to digitally hail taxi drivers, and gives you an estimated fare prior to setting off too. It can often work out considerably cheaper than ordering a black cab. It is the perfect go-between public transport and luxury cars, enabling you to travel comfortably on a budget.

Luxury executive cars

If public transport isn’t for you, and you are looking to do business in style, why not look at getting a luxury executive car? Companies such as REAL transfers provide cars equipped with various features and luxuries across a range of high-end cars to ensure your journey is made and completed in pure comfort and style, no matter the time of day or destination. REAL specialises in transfers to and from all of London’s airports. With fixed prices, a complimentary meet and greet service, a large fleet of modern and well-maintained vehicles and a team of professional and experienced drivers all of whom are committed to delivering great customer service, why not give us a go!