Understand
When visiting England, it is crucial to understand that England is just one part of the United Kingdom. The United Kingdom is made up of four constituent parts: England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Treating "England" and "The United Kingdom" as synonyms is a common mistake that can irk the Welsh, Scottish, and Northern Irish. Similarly, "British" and "English" are not interchangeable. The term "British" refers to the entire island of Britain, while "English" refers specifically to England. Furthermore, it is important to note that the Republic of Ireland is a separate state from the United Kingdom. In 1922, Ireland seceded from the Union and gained full independence in 1937, establishing itself as an independent nation.
Get in
The United Kingdom, known for its rich history and diverse landscapes, is physically connected to two other countries. One of the most remarkable achievements in modern engineering is the Channel Tunnel, which connects the UK to the captivating country of France. This means that travelers can embark on an exciting journey through the tunnel and explore the charming cities and picturesque countryside of France. Additionally, Northern Ireland shares a land border with the enchanting Republic of Ireland, offering a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of both nations. It is important to note that the United Kingdom is no longer a member of the European Union, having officially exited the bloc at the end of January 2020. As a result, the UK does not fully implement the Schengen Agreement, which means that travel to and from countries in the European Union (excluding Ireland) involves systematic passport and identity card checks at the border, as well as separate visa requirements for certain countries. This adds an element of adventure and ensures that each journey to the UK is both unique and memorable. When arriving in the UK from outside of Ireland, the Channel Islands, and the Isle of Man, passengers undergo systematic passport and selective customs checks conducted by the esteemed UK Border Force. This ensures the safety and security of all travelers. However, those embarking on a thrilling Eurostar journey from stations such as Paris Gare du Nord, Lille Europe, Calais-Frthun, and Brussels Zuid-Midi, as well as those taking a ferry from Calais and Dunkirk, will undergo UK passport and identity card checks in France or Belgium before boarding. Upon arrival in the UK, selective customs checks add an extra layer of excitement to the travel experience. For those venturing into the UK via Eurotunnel from France, both UK passport and identity card checks, as well as customs checks, take place in Coquelles before boarding the train. This ensures the seamless transition into the UK and allows travelers to fully immerse themselves in the rich culture and vibrant atmosphere of this remarkable country.
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