Okay, you’re probably not going to the royal wedding, with all its pomp and ceremony, but just before or just after the event would be a terrific time to visit London, when the capital city will be at it’s well-groomed best. I’ve lived there, and visit frequently, so here are some insider, wide-ranging tips from my own experiences and those of my London friends:

— Stay outside the center city to save big bucks — and take the tube to avoid the traffic. It’s fast and convenient

— The Oyster Card (get it when you land) covers the cost of double-decker buses. Best for viewing is the front row on the top level of the bus. Google Maps help.

— Remember, England uses military time — the 24-hour clock — for most transportation schedules. If you book a ticket for 08:30 and show up at 8:30 at night, the train will be long long gone (20:30 would be the time you wanted).  Also remember that the day-month-year format is different from ours (21 October 2018, or 21/10/18).

— Brush up: A brief history of monarchy. Basics on architecture. An idea of the geography. The internet is your best friend here, and it will help in so many ways to know the difference between Queen Anne architecture and Victorian. and which George reigned in which time period.

— Carry a wrap and an umbrella, even when it’s warm and sunny. (It might ensure the weather stays that way.)

— Stay close to the area you’re most interested in, so you can walk to sites, as traffic is horrendous and the tube is crowded at rush hours.

 — London tap water may appear cloudy at first. But don’t worry — it’s drinkable if not attractive.

— Leave time for day trips into the country: Bath, Oxford, The Cotswolds, Kensington Gardens  –all possible in a full day, by train or car.

— Don’t drive if you can help it — for so many reasons. Download the free Tube Map App which shows where all the stations are located.  You can also pick up a mini Tube map in most stations.

— The London Pass® is a sightseeing city card which gives you entry to a choice of over 80 popular tourist attractions in the city.

— Check out the Victoria & Albert museum. The V&A is the world’s most eccentric attic; such fun.

— If you can’t get further out in the English countryside, walk in close-by Hampstead Heath and visit Adam House, Keats House in adjacent Hampstead, searching out historic markers of so many artsy, literary former residents. (My former neighborhood.)

— When eating out it’s customary to leave a tip for 10-15% of the bill. But restaurants often add a service charge (usually 12.5%), so especially if you’re in a large group, check and adjust.

— Look both ways when you cross the street. Remember, people drive on the left side of the road. Sidewalks and streets are usually labeled with “Look Right” or “Look Left.” Cross only when the pedestrian walk sign is illuminated. Pedestrian walkways are indicated by large poles with a large, white/yellow light bulb on top, located on both sides of the street.

— Eat Indian. A good deal and London offers some of the most authentic Indian food in the world.

— Learn the language. That’s right, many of the words are different (“boot” is car trunk, etc.)

— Go to the theatre (yes, spelled theaTRE). And if you can, get to the Globe for a memorable Shakespearean experience the way it was in his time.

— Be patient about outspoken political opinions. You’ll hear them all, so try to remain open-minded and polite as possible. You represent the U.S. at an exceptionally difficult time. Avoid talking Brexit to keep your blood pressure down.