An insider in London

The weakened dollar certainly affects our US friends who visit us here in Outer London (Wimbledon), but a bit of research and knowledge can reveal good deals and plenty of freebies.

Two-for-one offers on many attractions are available to those who travel by train, including those purchasing “TravelCards.” Try putting “London 2 for 1” and “London travel cards” in your search engine (I used Google). Note that the one-day “off peak” TravelCard is generally the best bet unless you want to start before 9:30 a.m. on weekdays.

A Zone 6 card covers all public transport services (train, tube, bus, tram and Docklands Light Railway) and costs around $14 (substantially less for kids). It will get you anywhere in London and out as far as Hampton Court and Heathrow.

The London 2 for 1 offer (you’ll need a form) will save around $32 at the London Zoo or Tower of London.

Bear in mind that single-journey public transport tickets are priced to deter you. Your buying some sort of pass is cost effective for both sides.

In addition, there are restaurants in the West End that will give you a half-decent meal for less than $15 if you look around a bit.

It is not possible to give details in a letter like this, but I am happy to speak to anyone considering a visit to London, offering my advice and tips. Contact me by e-mail c/o ITN, giving your home telephone number and the best times to call. (I have a great deal with my telephone company that gives me free international calls to most of the world.)

My wife, Vivien, and I enjoy having friends visit us, and we think this may be a way of helping more people. Now in our 70s, we have lived and/or worked in London for 50 years, and it’s great to share our enjoyment of our home city.

PATRICK ERRICKER, West Wimbledon, London, England