Fukutomi Gazette: My Recent Visit to the United Kingdom

During my recent visit to the United Kingdom, one of the strongest impressions I had was how much the cost of living has increased. From air tickets and hotel accommodation to meals and transportation, expenses have risen significantly compared with just a few years ago.

Years ago, it was possible to stay in a decent hotel for £100 to £150 per night. Today, similar accommodation often costs between £200 and £300 per night, particularly in London and other major cities. Dining out has become equally costly. A reasonable meal in a restaurant can easily cost £50 per person, while a traditional fish and chips meal that once cost around £10 is now commonly priced at £18 to £20. Transportation expenses are also substantial. An Uber ride from Heathrow Airport to central London can exceed £100, while a traditional taxi is often even more expensive.

As a result, I have gradually changed my travel habits. Instead of relying on taxis, I now try to use the Underground whenever possible. Rather than staying in higher-priced hotels, I look for budget-friendly inns and lodges. I also try to reduce the number of restaurant meals and purchase food from supermarkets or local takeaway shops. Looking at the current cost of living, I often wonder how ordinary working-class families manage. My conclusion is that many people must cook at home, use public transportation, and carefully manage their discretionary spending.

Another noticeable change is the diversity of the population. During my stay, most Uber drivers I encountered were not native British. They were hardworking individuals from various parts of the world who have become an important part of the country’s workforce. In many hotels, restaurants, convenience stores, and retail shops, immigrants play a significant role in providing services that help keep the economy running smoothly.

Walking through central London was equally fascinating. I frequently heard conversations in many different languages, including Chinese, Japanese, Korean, French, German, Italian, Spanish, and numerous Eastern European languages. London has truly become one of the most international cities in the world, attracting people from every continent for work, study, business, and tourism.

Despite the economic challenges facing the country, the United Kingdom continues to possess extraordinary historical and cultural attractions. London alone is home to some of the world’s most famous landmarks, including the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, the Tower of London, and the British Museum. The country’s rich history, stretching from the Roman era through the British Empire and into the modern constitutional monarchy, continues to attract millions of visitors every year.

Tourism remains a vital pillar of the British economy. According to recent industry reports, tourism contributes approximately £147 billion annually to the UK economy, supports around 2.4 million jobs, and generates more than £50 billion in tax revenue. International visitors are expected to spend over £33 billion per year in the country. These figures highlight the importance of maintaining the UK’s attractiveness as a global destination, particularly at a time when economic growth remains challenging.

While the cost of living has undoubtedly increased, the United Kingdom still offers something unique: a combination of history, culture, diversity, and global influence that few countries can match. My visit reminded me that despite economic pressures, Britain remains one of the world’s most important and fascinating destinations for business travellers and tourists alike.