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Practical info Newcastle, United Kingdom
Getting around the city
Newcastle has an excellent public transport system, with plenty of buses, trains and taxis available. It may be worth phoning ahead for a taxi at the weekend, as the city can get quite busy. Newcastle is also home to the UK's first light rapid rail transit system, the Tyne and Wear Metro, a fast and efficient means of transport that operates within the city and connects Newcastle and Gateshead. There are plenty of car rental agencies in the city, though exploring Newcastle on foot is perhaps the best way to take in all the sights and sounds. There are also several cycling paths and bike rental options.
Time
GMT (GMT +1 from last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October).
Electricity
The electrical current in the UK is 230 volts, 50Hz. Flat three-pin plugs are standard.
Currency
The currency is the British Pound (GBP), which is divided into 100 pence. ATMs are available in almost all towns and Visa, MasterCard and American Express are widely accepted; visitors with other cards should check with their credit card companies in advance. Foreign currency can be exchanged at bureaux de change and large hotels, however better exchange rates are likely to be found at banks.
Communication
The international country dialling code for the UK is +44. Mobile phone coverage is extensive, using GSM 1800 networks which may not be compatible with some dual-band US cell phones. Internet cafes are available in all major towns and cities, train stations and airports and wifi is widely available.
Emergency number
Emergencies: 999/112
Visa and health information
Newcastle International Airport
Getting to the city
The Metro system connects the airport to Newcastle Central Station, and other parts of the city, leaving every few minutes. Buses also leave regularly for the Eldon Square Bus Concourse.
Car rental
Car hire companies represented at the airport include Avis, Europcar, Hertz and Interrent.
Airport taxi's
Taxis are available outside the terminal.
Facilities
Newcastle Airport has shops, bars and restaurants. Other facilities include a bank, bureaux de change, ATMs, left luggage, baby care rooms, and a children's play area. Disabled facilities are good; those with special needs are advised to inform their airline or travel agent in advance.
Parking
The short-stay and express parking lots are located directly opposite the terminal. The medium-stay lot, just beyond, offers 15 minutes free parking for picking up or dropping off passengers. The long-term lots are located furthest from the terminal and offer the cheapest daily and weekly rates. Discounted rates are available for bookings made via the airport website.
Internet
Free wifi is available for 45 minutes in the terminal building.
