Calling Blighty? Decoding the London Dialing Mystery (and Avoiding Embarrassing Mix-Ups)
Let's face it, calling someone in London can be a bit of a head-scratcher. Between the fancy accents and the whole "adding a bunch of numbers before the actual number" business, it's enough to make you want to retreat to carrier pigeons (though with the price of birdseed these days...).
But fear not, intrepid adventurer! This guide will have you navigating the London dialing code like a seasoned pro.
The Big Kahuna: The London Area Code (020)
This eight-digit beast is the key to unlocking phone calls to London. It's like the secret password to access all the crumpets, pints, and double-decker bus rides your heart desires (well, maybe not literally, but you get the idea).
Think of it like a special handshake for London phone numbers. Except way less germy and way more useful for chatting with your mates across the pond.
But Wait, There's More! International Dialing Fun
Now, if you're calling from outside the UK, things get a tad more interesting. Here's the secret formula:
- Your Country's Exit Code: This is like the magic key that unlocks the door to international calls. It'll vary depending on where you're calling from, but for the US and Canada, it's 011.
- The UK Country Code (44): This tells the phone gods you're trying to reach merry ol' England.
- The London Area Code (020): And here's your trusty friend again! But remember, ditch the leading zero when dialing from abroad. International calls don't appreciate that kind of formality.
For example, calling a mobile phone in London from the US would look like this: 011 (exit code) + 44 (UK country code) + 7 (mobile prefix) + ######## (the rest of the number).
Remember, folks: double-check that country code! Calling Australia by mistake might lead to some very confused conversations (though, hey, maybe that's your thing).
So, Basically...
Calling London is like following a recipe: a dash of country code, a sprinkle of area code, and a whole lot of phone number. Easy peasy, right?
Now, go forth and conquer those international calls! Just try not to spend all your time chatting and forget about that important business meeting (unless that business meeting involves pints, then by all means, chat away).
FAQs
How to find the exit code for my country?
A quick Google search for "exit code + your country" should do the trick!
How to call a landline in London?
Follow the same steps as above, but the phone number might start with a different prefix (like 20 for some central London numbers).
How to save a London number on my phone?
Just enter the full number, including the country code, and your phone will sort out the rest.
How to avoid accidentally calling yourself?
Double-check that number before you hit dial! Unless you really enjoy the sound of your own voice (no judgment here).
How to sound like a Londoner while calling?
This one might be a bit trickier, but a good cup of tea and a sprinkle of "mate" in your conversation can't hurt!
