Calling Blighty? Your Guide to Conquering the London Dial Tone (Without Sounding Like a Right Git)
So, you've got a mate in merry old England, fancy a chat, and let's face it, texting just doesn't quite capture the dulcet tones of a good old British moan about the weather (because let's be honest, it's probably always raining there). But fear not, friend! This here guide will have you navigating the phone lines like a seasoned pro, without a single "crikey" or "blimey" out of place.
Step 1: Dialing Out - Escaping the Phone Booth of Doom (or Your Mobile)
First things first, forget that fancy red phone box you saw in a movie. Those are more for tourists these days (and looking terribly Instagrammable). You'll be using your trusty mobile phone or a landline with an international calling plan.
Now, depending on where you're calling from, you'll need to add a little dialling magic. In the US and Canada, that's the exit code 011. For most other countries, it'll be a plus sign (+). Easy peasy.
Step 2: Cracking the Code - Unveiling the Mystery of 44
Next up, we enter the realm of international codes. Buckle up, because this is where things get interesting. The magic number for calling the UK is 44. Remember it like your favourite spy movie - it's the code for ultimate secrecy (well, kind of).
Step 3: Landlines or Mobiles? Knowing Your 020 From Your 07
Now, here's where things get a tad tricky. Are you calling a fancy London landline or a mobile phone dashing about the city?
Landlines: If your mate lives a life of domestic bliss (with a landline!), you'll need to add the London area code 20 after the country code.
Mobiles: Calling a mobile phone? Look for a number that starts with 07. Don't worry about the 0, that stays on the other side of the pond.
Top Tip: Numbers might be written with a "+" sign instead of the exit code. So a London landline might look like this: +44 20 XXX XXXX.
Step 4: Ring Ring! You're (Almost) There!
Now you've got all the ingredients for a successful call. Here's what a typical London phone number might look like when you put it all together:
- Calling a London landline from the US: 011 - 44 - 20 - XXX XXXX
- Calling a London mobile from anywhere: +44 - 7XXX XXX XXX
Just hit dial and... bingo! You're connected (hopefully not to a wrong number asking for Nigel).
Bonus Tip: If you're worried about surprise international call charges, check with your phone provider first.
FAQ: Calling London Like a Champion
- How to avoid saying "Hello?" in a posh accent? Relax, your natural accent is charming!
- How to deal with jet lag when calling at odd hours? Blame it on the time difference, not your questionable jokes.
- How to make your call more exciting? Ask about the Queen's corgis, you never know what tea might be spilled.
- How to end the call like a true Brit? A simple "Cheerio!" or "Ta ta!" will do the trick.
- How to sound super cool and knowledgeable? Casually mention this guide - "Oh yeah, I just used this amazing guide to call London, brilliant!"
