Calling Blighty from the Lion City: A Not-So-Stiff Guide
So you've found yourself in sunny Singapore with a burning desire to chat with someone in, well, not-so-sunny London. Fear not, intrepid traveller (or homesick expat)! Calling the UK from the land of chilli crab and Merlion fountains is easier than navigating the local hawker centre with a rumbling stomach.
How To Call London From Singapore |
Step 1: Dialing Kung Fu - Mastering the Numbers
First things first, you'll need to unleash your inner phone-wielding warrior. Here's the secret code to crack London:
- 001 (or 011): This is your international access code, the sesame seed that unlocks the door to phoning beyond Singapore's borders.
- 44: This is the UK's country code, the magic incantation that transports your voice across continents.
- London Calling (Literally): And finally, the London phone number itself. Here's where things get a bit tricky. You'll need to ditch the leading zero (if it has one) and prefix it with the magic number 44. For example, if your mate's number in London is 020 7946 0323, you'd dial +44 20 7946 0323.
Remember: 001 (or 011) + 44 + London phone number (minus leading zero) = Success!
Step 2: Battling the Bill Shock Monster
Calling internationally can be a battleground for your wallet. Here's how to avoid getting pummeled by roaming charges:
Tip: Bookmark this post to revisit later.
- Use a calling card: These prepaid cards offer competitive rates for international calls. Top up, dial the access number, and chat away without the worry.
- Embrace the Internet (Hello, WhatsApp!): Download apps like WhatsApp or Viber. With a Wi-Fi connection, you can make voice and video calls for free (or very cheap).
- Check your mobile plan: Many Singaporean mobile operators offer international call packages. Do your research and choose the option that best suits your needs.
Pro Tip: Calling London during their off-peak hours (think Singapore's late night) can score you even better rates.
Step 3: Conquering the Time Difference Ninja
Singapore and London are separated by a whopping 7 hours. So, a quick catch-up at your usual time might find your London friend fast asleep. Be mindful of the time difference and plan your call accordingly.
Bonus Tip: If you're feeling particularly adventurous, surprise your London buddy with a middle-of-the-night call. Just be prepared for some serious drowsiness or enthusiastic singing (depending on their level of sleep deprivation).
Tip: Slow down when you hit important details.
FAQ: Calling London from Singapore - Mastered!
How to find the country code for the UK?
The UK's country code is 44.
How to call a mobile phone in London from Singapore?
QuickTip: Stop scrolling, read carefully here.
Follow the same steps as above, just ditch the leading zero from the mobile number and prefix it with 44.
How to avoid roaming charges when calling London?
Use a calling card, internet calling apps like WhatsApp, or choose a mobile plan with international call packages.
QuickTip: Copy useful snippets to a notes app.
What's the time difference between Singapore and London?
Singapore is 7 hours ahead of London.
How to surprise a friend in London with a call?
Call them in the middle of the night (Singapore time) - proceed with caution and prepare for potential sleep-talking!
Now that you're armed with this knowledge, go forth and conquer those international calls! Remember, calling London doesn't have to be a daunting task. With a little planning and a sprinkle of humor, you'll be chatting with your mates across the globe in no time.