Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 26 - Q&A How to Move to the UK, Layover Travel, When To Go, and More!
Release Date: 07/19/2024
Anglotopia Podcast
In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, host Jonathan Thomas discusses two significant topics: the release of a new book titled 'British Monarchy: A Complete Guide to Britain's Kings and Queens' and the introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for travelers to the UK. The book compiles a decade's worth of articles on British monarchs, while the ETA represents a major change in travel requirements for visitors, emphasizing the need for pre-travel authorization to enter the UK. Links Takeaways The new ETA is a significant change for travelers to the UK. ...
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Following on from last week’s history of Thornbury Castle, this week in Part Two, we take a tour around the castle in person. In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, we take listeners on a captivating tour of Thornbury Castle in Gloucestershire, guided by local historian Tony Cherry. The conversation delves into the rich history of the castle, its architectural features, and the life of Edward Stafford, the 3rd Duke of Buckingham, who built the castle during the Tudor period. The episode highlights the blend of fortification and luxury in the castle's design, reflecting Stafford's...
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In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, host Jonathan Thomas speaks with historian Adrian Tinniswood about his latest book, ‘The Power and the Glory,’ which explores the golden age of British country houses from 1870 to 1914. They discuss the evolution of these estates, the impact of new money and technology, the changing roles of servants, and the societal scandals that characterized this fascinating period in British history. In this conversation, Jonathan Thomas and Adrian discuss the evolution of the British aristocracy, focusing on the influence of figures like the Rothschilds and...
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In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, historian and author Katherine Carter offers a fascinating look into her new book, Churchill's Citadel, which examines Winston Churchill's pivotal “wilderness years” of the 1930s. Katherine shares her lifelong passion for history and her journey to becoming Chartwell’s curator, diving into how this beloved Kent home became Churchill’s personal headquarters for intelligence gathering and diplomacy. She reveals the unique domestic life at Chartwell, with its lively gatherings, memorable overnight guests like T.E. Lawrence, and Churchill’s...
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In this captivating episode of the Anglotopia Podcast, we sit down with historian and author Sophie Shorland to discuss her new book, The Lost Queen: The Surprising Life of Catherine of Braganza. Sophie takes us through the life of this often-overlooked queen, whose marriage to Charles II played a pivotal role in shaping Anglo-Portuguese relations, Britain's cultural landscape, and the introduction of tea drinking to the UK. The conversation dives into Catherine's struggles with her childlessness, her husband's numerous affairs, and her attempts to influence both Portuguese and British...
info_outlineThis week on the Anglotopia podcast, we take a break from the guests and answer listener questions. In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, Jonathan and Jackie answer questions about Britain from their listeners. They discuss topics such as when to visit England, how to spend a layover in London, and the must-see attractions in the city. They also share their personal experiences and recommendations for exploring London, including visiting Hyde Park, the National Gallery, Trafalgar Square, and Covent Garden. They provide tips on transportation, booking in advance, and making the most of a limited time in the city. Moving to the UK as an American requires hiring a good immigration lawyer, as it is a complicated process. The easiest way to move to the UK is to marry a British citizen, but this is not a recommendation. Other options include getting a work visa for an in-demand job or going as a student. It is important to plan ahead and book attractions in advance, as well as budget for the trip. The best time to visit London is in the autumn, as it is less crowded and the weather is pleasant. Winter travel can also be enjoyable, but be prepared for damp cold.
Links
- Where Did Anglotopia Come From
- Spitalfields Life
- The Gentle Author's Tours
- An American Student Abroad Column on Anglotopia
- 101 Free Things To Do in London
- UK Visas and Immigration
Takeaways
- England is open for travel, but visitors from different countries may have different entry requirements.
- When planning a layover in London, consider the duration and location of the layover, and make sure to account for travel time to and from the airport.
- Popular attractions in London include Hyde Park, the National Gallery, Trafalgar Square, and Covent Garden.
- It is important to book in advance for attractions, restaurants, and transportation to make the most of a limited time in the city.
- Consider using public transportation, such as the Heathrow Express or the Elizabeth Line, to get around London.
- Take advantage of services like left luggage at the airport or bookstores that offer shipping to avoid carrying heavy bags during a layover.
- Explore different neighborhoods and try iconic experiences, such as afternoon tea or visiting historic hotels, to get a well-rounded London experience.
- Consider taking guided tours or exploring lesser-known areas to discover hidden gems in the city. Moving to the UK as an American requires hiring an immigration lawyer and is a complicated process.
- The easiest way to move to the UK is to marry a British citizen, but this is not recommended.
- Other options include getting a work visa for an in-demand job or going as a student.
- It is important to plan ahead and book attractions in advance, as well as budget for the trip.
- The best time to visit London is in the autumn, as it is less crowded and the weather is pleasant.
- Winter travel can also be enjoyable, but be prepared for damp cold.
Sound Bites
- "If you want to go to England, set your mind to it and start ticking off the things you need to make it happen."
- "The best way to spend a layover in London is to explore Hyde Park, visit the National Gallery, and take a walk from Trafalgar Square to the Houses of Parliament."
- "When on a layover in London, it's important to get rid of your bags first and consider using left luggage services at the airport."
- "You hire a really good immigration lawyer"
- "The easiest way for an American to move to the UK is to marry a Brit"
- "Another option is to go as a student"
Chapters
- 00:00 Layovers in London
- 03:21 Planning a Trip to the UK
- 15:11 Visiting Fortnum and Mason and Oxford Street
- 19:53 Communing with British Art at the National Gallery
- 22:05 Taking a Ride on the London Eye
- 25:38 Tips for Moving to the UK
- 42:14 Budgeting for a Trip to London
- 52:19 The Best Time to Visit London: Seasons and Weather