A survival guide to living in London.

RSS Feed

download movies

Get on the bus: the newbie´s guide #1

August 25th, 2010

xavieriza

In a city as big as London buses have always been the underdog, defeated by the much faster tube. But in reality, on many occasions they’ll be your best bet to get where you had planned in the shortest time. Follow these our advices on how to use buses in a clever and combat fashion. Yet, remember it´s not about choosing sides, it´s about knowing what to choose at the right time.

Boris: "Combat London said buses rule so they must rule"

Buses are not under our feet, so we can save some precious minutes without going downstairs, through barriers and down the escalators again. Many of you are probably losing time on the tube when it comes to short journeys, ignoring a bus could be certainly quicker.

Buses are zone-insensitive. By getting on the bus you can dodge a painful blow when travelling from one zone to another which is far way. You´ll recognise a good combatant by their smart use of the bus routes.

Once on the bus, it´s crucial where to stay. Get upstairs if it´s a doubledecker. It´ll be easier to know where to jump off and the experience will be more pleasant away from the baby buggies and short-trippers constantly moving around. If it´s a bendy, it´ll probably be crowded so stay away from the doors if you appreciate breathing. It´s worth struggling for ten seconds to grab a decent position for the rest of your journey. Singledecker buses run the more mellow routes and are rarely packed.

When the night comes, buses are your only chance of getting where you need. For more than six straight hours there´s no tube at all so the more you know about buses, the higher your chances to travel by night pleasantly. Almost any bus has its night version (i.e. 15>N15) following the same pattern and a lot of the most popular buses are 24hours, to your relief. Drunk, dazed and dead tired after hardcore partying, fancy some eternal wait for the bus just because you though you would never have to take one?

To Combat London, buses are just like that old friend everyone has, not most glamorous to hang out with, but alaways on our side through thick and thin.

Lidl: when price is what matters the most

August 17th, 2010

xavieriza

You may miss the wide range of organic products or delicatessen other leading supermarkets offer, but the much lower price to pay for your goods at the checkout is very reassuring in a Lidl supermarket. Still, is it worth buying there after all? Combat London gets in the ring to, as usual,help further by solving your doubts.

The march of the German colossus across Europe

With over 30 stores scattered across London, the German retail giant has established as a wise choice in terms of tight budget. Lidl has fought hard to assure outposts not only in places as grim as Limehouse or Camberwell, but also in others as well-considered as Chelsea or Bayswater, without altering at all their winning formula: whatever you sell, sell it cheaper than anyone.

Despite the feel-good rush one gets by paying at times even 1/3 less of what would be expectable at Tesco or Sainsbury’s, Lidl isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. The following are a few verified problems, with our humble tips to alleviate them.

1)The layout inside the store is sloppy and not precisely smart, with frequent bottlenecks and products in places far from anticipated. The premises also lack the luxuries other commercial spaces offer their customers, like toilets or even menial things such a basket to leave umbrellas. Lidl is a no-frills, hit-and-run powerhouse.

TIP:Travel to the store light. No umbrellas, skates, or any items impending your shopping. Carry a large rucksack on your back, filled with reusable plastic bags, since Lidl charges for bags as a deterrent for eco-assasins.

2)Being a genuine German company, the items featured shape that unequivocal Central European vibe, for good or bad. Loads of frozen ready meals and many different types of cheese and sausage, yes, but all this at the expenses of fresh fruit or assorted vegs.

TIP:Schedule Lidl for those times of your life you’re busier and unable to cook much. When it comes to ready meals and variety of cold spread, Lidl delivers the goods.

50% off on dumbells at Lidl let David dream with beating Arnie's record

3)Unfortunately, there aren’t employees inside the store apart from the security man and the cashiers, so sometimes you’ll feel helpless in finding something or asking for advice.

TIP:Be thorough planning what you want to buy beforehand (you might as well read this other entry) First time at Lidl? Allow extra time to get familiar with their particular world.

4)Apparently, there’s no way around long queues at the checkout. In fact, the tiny space left to pack all your goods pushes you to frantically bag everything, on the verge of a heart attack, but still, long lines remain.

TIP:Visit the store during the slow hours. If you can’t make it, bring a sidekick. Your partner can start queing minutes before finishing your shopping, and then you just join for the glory.

In a nutshell, those weeks you’re terribly busy or haven’t got paid, Lidl will be there welcoming you with its endless list of tasty ready meals, world’s canned but accurate foods and above anything, unbeatable prices. Don’t believe us? Check out the slideshow below and you’ll change your mind.

Lidl In London

View more presentations from pelosfx.

Getting your taxes back

August 7th, 2010

xavieriza

We all should agree on paying taxes, but only to a certain extent. Nobody wants to be deducted loads of cash, but if this happen, you better get at least some back. We know a company that deals with retributions quickly, easily,and above anything, efficiently. Taxback.com can help you combatants recoup that money you’ve been unjustly deducted.

We know safer and better ways to get some cash

The mentioned agency has received a lot of praising lately, awards included, and certainly they they make a huge effort to get all that credit. Taxback only needs a ridiculous amount of documents and time to sort out your tax issues over the last 5 years. Yet, every tax year runs April to April, and you need to open a case for every of those years your money was deducted from.

Once you´re clear on that you just drop by their conveniently located office in Oxford street to be helped by their friendly and no-nonsense staff. All you need is to bring is either a P45 or a P60 and fill out 5 sheets. Don´t forget your details nor your current/former employees’.

That was just what you’ll need to kickstart the process. From that point on, you can keep adding missing information online, including the bank account you want the money to be transferred to, or check how much money you are to be given. Taxback also provides a first class customer service in form of live chat to help you all the way through.

It´s as easy as it gets. So where´s the catch? Well, they obviosly need to get paid for what they did for you, so they keep a 13% of what the Revenue decided to give you back. It can come to quite a bit of your income but consider the feelgood factor of “not paying” any money on the spot for their services.

Metro bank, or how to open a bank account in 15 minutes

August 2nd, 2010

xavieriza

Opening a bank account has always been the traditional headache to newly-arrived Londoners. While it isn’t anymore as hard as it used to be, one of the first question a soon-to-be combatant will ask is, how and where do I open a bank account in London?

Luckily for us, a new outlet has arrived, promising to revolutionise and simplify the thankless process of opening and holding a bank account.

No stupid rules. In Metro Bank, dogs and Idiots are welcome too.

Metro, the first bank to open in the UK in a century, will make a a name for itself by promising to stamp out stupid bank rules. In Metro, you will be able to walk home with an account, a debit and a credit card in 15 minutes. Sweet, huh? Also if you happen to lose your card on a wild weekend, or it gets lost in one of your grueling double shifts, head on for a new one in less than 3 minutes.

Check here for a more comprehensive reading on banks in London, and what to expect when opening a bank account.

Opening your bank account

July 31st, 2010

xavieriza

Jose: "Nothing like good old payday Fridays..."

Gone are the times when one had to struggle to open a bank account in the UK. Some of us still belong to the old school and had once to put money in shared accounts (who said “trust”?). But lately, thanks to all the combat cannon fodder, London banks saw an opportunity to expand their branches too good to be true.

In fact there’s never been an easier time to do it and quit putting away your money under the mattress or in empty cans of baked beans. So, if you want London to drain you a little less than necessary, go for once to those places that are always on the corner and filled with people(we don´t mean the pub this time):

1) Choose your future bank. One that is conveniently located, represented all over the city and big enough not to go bankrupt and leave you out in the cold. Some point out the importance of your bank having branches in your own homeland for those times you come back, too.

2)Allow the whole morning to sort out the issue. Many things you settle on that day you open an account are crucial and you don’t want to regret some or be unsure what you signed up for.

3)Tell the staff assisting you to cut the shit. You don’t need insurance if you get leg and a half chopped off or minimally care about being eligible for flashy Iphones. No one is obliged to pay fees when opening an account (like banks were doing you the favour!). You want your account as plain as it gets. Full stop.

4)The only “extra” you must require (and it’s a free one) is to have online banking. We were once sceptical but now we realised how good that is. To make transfers, wisely manage your budget and ensure you don’t go berserk spending cash, there’s nothing like it.

5)Ask for a credit card, too. Credit cards turn out to be extremely useful buying online (commissions are rarer) and spending large amounts at once your bank will be liable should anything go wrong.

6)It might be worth opening a savings account on side. We know “to save” is a verb many of us don´t use much. Still, to prove your combatness, refuse to have a card to withdraw money from that savings account. This way you can only add money or worst case scenario maintain what you’ve got already.

Bacon or sausage rolls for 1pound. Great start of the day!!

July 31st, 2010

xavieriza

<

this is when you start to resent not having bought two

As a Combater, you need to grasp quickly how important it is to have a good breakfast ,in order to stand up to your bonebreaking shifts and London parties. However, there are times when we sleep in, or are too hungover to do anything else than a coffee.

Thankfully, the West Cornwall Pasty, the ones with the pirate in the logo, have an outstanding offer for those days. For one pound you get a rather nice and filling bacon or sausage roll ( and a few other options) you can wolf down on your way to your job/date/social obligation. Unfortunately, it is only on until 11am.

Come show me how ye bury yer treasure, lad!

You can find the pirate in most train stations so look out for it if you usually take the train/tube in stations like Liverpool Street, Waterloo, Kings Cross, London Bridge, Paddington, Victoria or Richmond among others. After that, you’ll be converted to “piratism” so make some time to check this website and speak like one. Arrr! -

Play Ping Pong for free this summer

July 29th, 2010

xavieriza

Ping pong has that balance between sport and game that we love. It is not easy to find a ping pong table in London you can play for free, albeit exceptions exist.

But this summer you´ll be able to play ping pong for free at various locations. In fact there are going to be as many as 100 ping pong tables, all scattered throughout the city in places as varied as the British library or Westfield. Best even is some locations will run its own themed tournaments and games. Just click here to find your nearest table and the most fun tournament.

Up until the 22nd of August, there is no excuse not to head to this website and check when and where can you go try your hand at this ancient game than Chinesse and Brits claim as theirs.

Top unique free things to do in London this summer.

July 25th, 2010

xavieriza

This post needs to be thanked to our guest writer, Yuli Linssen- Kaminitz. Yuli works for EasyToBook.com, specializing in discount rates on hotels all over the world that range from simple motels all the way up to celebrated 5-star venues. For more information about hotels in London, visit their site!.

London is one of the most vibrant cities in Europe- Unlimited number of museums, more than 100 theaters, the famous royal family, numerous vintage shops and of course Katt Moss. Even though London attracts more than 27 Million tourists a year, many people from outside Europe still find it an extremely expensive destination to visit.

In order to make life easier for those of you who cannot afford to go to on a shopping spree or watch three theaters shows in a row, here are the top 6 free things to do in the city:

1. Speakers’ corner-

Don't necessarily believe them

Cumberland Gate Park Lane, North East corner of Hyde Park, London W1K 7TY, United Kingdom - 07533 098 035
Open Sun 12pm-7:30pm

Not only this attraction is free of charge, it is also worth visiting regardless! Where else would you be able to listen to extremely passionate people talking about their beliefs, ideas, conspiracy theories and rough opinions? On 1872 the parliaments have decided to allow public speaking in the north-eastern corner of London’s Hyde Park. People from all over the country gathered to raise their important issues – the main discussions were: politics, religion, the economic situation and more. Until this day- every Sunday you will be able to witness people standing on a small chair in Hyde Park and lecturing the crowd.

2. Primrose Hill-

Primrose Hill, Primrose Hill Road, Primrose Hill, NW3 3NA

The ultimate chill out

This is the perfect spot to chill out, have a pleasant picnic and watch the spectacular sunset. Located in the north side of Regent’s Park- the Primrose hill not only offers the most magnificent view of the city- the district which surrounding it is full of cozy cafes, trendy restaurants, tiny pubs and shopping streets. Start your day with getting a tan in the sun and finish it with a glass of wine- there is a chance you will come across a celebrity such as Gwen Stefani, Jude Law and Ewan McGregor- all of them are extremely fond of this place.

3. National Theatre Square-

South Bank, London, SE1 9PX

The National Theatre Square offers three different vast auditoriums which more than 20 productions are being played there per year! Even though most of the shows do cost money to enter, you would be pleasantly surprise to discover how many free performances are offered monthly.

During the whole summer and until September 26 you will be able to enjoy for free the spectacular outdoor theatre- “Watch This Space Festival”. This wonderful event includes: extraordinary circus, brilliant dancers, acrobatic performances and many more.

4. Richmond Park-

Holly Lodge TW10 5HS

Richmond Park is located in Richmond, West London. It is extremely hard to believe that such an astonishingly beautiful nature area is just 12 miles away from London! This breathtaking Royal Park is the biggest in London- it covers 2,500 acres of complete beautify and total freedom for the wild animals.

Walking there, witnessing the deer running free and listening to the sound of birds- will make you feel like you are not in the UK but in a far away country which begs description.

5. Free Movies UK-

This nonprofit website will definitely be a dream come true for the all the cinema lovers out there. The idea behind this great organisation is to allow people go to their nearest cinema in the UK and watch all films genre which have not been released yet. In case you ask yourself:”why would anyone just give away free cinema tickets?” – There is a simple explanation: movie makers believe in “word of mouth” marketing which means- you will tell your friends about this great movie you went to- and they will eventually buy a ticket to go and watch it!

6. Sunday UpMarket and the Backyard Market-

Every sunday gets very busy by Brick Lane

Ely’s Yard (entrances on Brick Lane & Hanbury Street), The Old Truman Brewery
London E1

Both of these markets are sort of hidden hotspots in the city. They are quite alternative and most of the people there are locals. The Backyard market, (open Sunday from 11am till 6pm and Saturday from 10am to 5pm) offers exceptional fashion from young, talented and upcoming designers. Even though the stalls do not offer free treats, you will surly enjoy strolling around and be inspired by the fashion forward clothes, one of a kind jewellery and the distinctive art and craft treasures. The Sunday UpMarket which is located right next to the Backyard Market is similar with its unique fashion items, funky vibe and colorfulness. The major point of distinction from its neighboring market is the famous food area: Tempting cupcakes, Turkish and Moroccan homemade delicious meals, Spanish Paellas, Sushi and many more! The best part is: free tasting is offered to everyone!

Barbican weekender, the ultimate plan for this Saturday

July 24th, 2010

xavieriza

Say you plan on being good lads and lasses, and taking it easy this weekend. Think yourself lucky because this Sunday Barbican presents the Ultimate plan, the Barbican Weekender. With music, art, theatre and cinema, Barbican weekender is a free event that will see Londoners flocking in masses. With a first-come first-in policy, planning ahead is advisable to avoid disappointment. For full details or making your own plan, head here

Surreal DIY, Level -1 / 11.30-12.30pm. A workshop of creativity; forget conventions and spend one hour working on something useless, only to perhaps ending up discovering it´s the most beautiful thing you have ever produced. But probably not.

David Lynch short films, Barbican Silk Street. Enjoy the magnificence surreal art of David Lynch, well-known for making viewers clutch to their laptops after any of his films, to check on IMDB what the hell was really going on.

The London Snorkelling Team, Freestage, 2–2.45pm. A band of sci-fi jazz. Whatever that means, we are in for some offbeat and groovy music.

Have lunch at Whitecross Market. Traditionally closed over the weekends, this market of stalls feeds burritos, curries and whatnot to hundreds of executives of the Barbican area. Not only will it be open, but hosting a party with art and performances. Grab a quick bite before coming back to the Centre.

Get lost. 15,30 to 16,00, Barbican Centre. Its not usually a good thing someone telling you to get lost. In this case, the Dot Comedy team have even set up a maze for you to do so in a labyrinth. Try to find yourself for the next crazy thing, we’re not done.

Build a house for your head, 16hh. Yes, you read right. Architectural Pentathlon is a workshop with designer Fredrik Paulsen, from the country that brought us Ikea and Spotify. In it you build cartoon structures for your head and pit against others’.

Head in the Box, Mezzanine level, 17hh. After assembling a box for your head is time to stick your head in another sort of box. In Strangeworks, you will enter a room into your unconscious, where nothing is what seems to be. You can’t however bump into an attractive person and argue you thought it was a wardrobe. We asked.

If you have some time to spare, check also the magnetic wall, where you can play with words. Try to be original, don’t put anything rude. Also, check the pop-art shop for unusual designs of everyday items. Both open until 18hh.

Where can I buy second hand books in London?

July 18th, 2010

xavieriza

Some people love books. They go with you in the tube, to bed, to the loo…and never complain! With the advent of e-books there are plenty of possibilities to enjoy reading at very low prices. But what if you still, love your paper pages, your flaps and your pencil notes and doodles?

London is good for books. Londoners read a lot, so there are a few options to consider to buy second hand books, marking down an average of 70-80% the price of original books one finds in pricey bookstores such as Waterstones or the now gone Borders.

Second to none are the outlets in Charing Cross road. Walk from Trafalgar Square all the way up to Totenham Court Road and dwell in those little cosy stores. They have books from £1 upwards. You are guaranteed to go home with a bunch of bargains.

Another great alternative are the stores at Notting Hill Station. If you love comics, this is a must-go, as some of these stores have virtually thousands of titles on all sorts of comics. We are known for walking off with more books we can possibly carry and struggle back to Combat HQ in East London.

Open daily until seven, Southbank book market has a lot of bargains to be found. Located south to the river close to Embakment, makes the layer of the cake for a romantic date . The well famous skater-biker spot next to it adds to its allure.

southbank book market

Last of all, and once again crossing the borders to the online realm, a word of praise needs to go to Amazon. As when you mockshop for clothes, feel free to browse posh libaries only to then buy the off Amazon. New and second hand books may be purchased bagging huge discounts.