How to Easily Call London from Canada: A Complete Guide

Introduction
Understanding International Calls
Dialing Code for London
Steps to Call London from Canada
Cost of Calling London
Choosing a Phone Plan
Using VoIP Services
Case Studies
Expert Insights
FAQs

Introduction

In our increasingly connected world, making international calls has become a daily necessity for many people. Whether you have family or friends in London, or you’re conducting business across the ocean, knowing how to call London from Canada is essential. This comprehensive guide aims to simplify the process, ensuring you understand everything from dialing codes to costs and available services.

Understanding International Calls

Calling internationally can seem daunting, but it primarily involves knowing the correct format and understanding the different charges that may apply. When you dial an international number, you need to include the following:

Exit code of your country (Canada)
Country code for the destination (United Kingdom)
Area code for the city (London)
The local number you wish to reach

In Canada, the exit code is 011, and for the UK, it’s 44. Understanding these codes is crucial for making successful calls.

Dialing Code for London

London has several area codes, but the most commonly used code is 20. Thus, to call London, you would dial:

011 + 44 + 20 + Local Number

Steps to Call London from Canada

Step 1: Prepare for the Call

Before making the call, ensure you have the local number you need to reach. It’s always a good idea to double-check the number for accuracy.

Step 2: Dial the Exit Code

Start by dialing the exit code for Canada (011), which allows you to initiate an international call.

Step 3: Dial the Country Code

Next, enter the country code for the United Kingdom, which is 44.

Step 4: Dial the Area Code

After the country code, enter the area code for London, which is 20.

Step 5: Dial the Local Number

Finally, complete your call by dialing the local number you wish to reach. Your complete call sequence should look like this:

011 + 44 + 20 + Local Number

Cost of Calling London

The cost of calling London from Canada can vary based on your phone plan. Here are some general guidelines:

Traditional landline: Rates can range from $0.20 to $2.00 per minute.
Mobile phone plan: Many mobile providers offer international calling packages that can reduce costs significantly.
VoIP services: Platforms like Skype or Google Voice often provide cheaper rates, sometimes as low as $0.01 per minute.

Choosing a Phone Plan

When planning to call London frequently, consider the following options:

International calling plans: Many carriers offer specific plans that include discounted international rates.
Prepaid calling cards: These cards can be an economical option for international calls.
VoIP services: Services like Skype allow for calls over the internet, often at a fraction of traditional rates.

Using VoIP Services

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services have revolutionized international calling. Here’s how to use them:

Choose a VoIP provider (e.g., Skype, Zoom, Google Voice).
Create an account and add credits if necessary.
Make sure you have a stable internet connection.
Dial using the same format as traditional calls.

Case Studies

Here are a couple of examples of Canadians calling London:

Case Study 1: Business Calls

John runs a tech startup in Toronto and frequently calls his partners in London. He opted for a mobile plan that includes international calling, reducing his costs significantly and allowing him to stay connected.

Case Study 2: Family Calls

Mary has relatives in London and uses a prepaid calling card. This allows her to make calls without worrying about unexpected charges, ensuring she can stay in touch with family easily.

Expert Insights

Experts suggest reviewing your calling habits to determine the best plan for your needs. Regular users of international calls might benefit from a dedicated calling plan, while infrequent callers can save money using VoIP services.

FAQs

1. What is the exit code for Canada?

The exit code for Canada is 011.

2. How do I call a mobile phone in London?

Dial 011 + 44 + 7 + Local Number for mobile phones.

3. Are there cheaper ways to call London?

Yes, using VoIP services like Skype or Google Voice can significantly reduce costs.

4. What is the time difference between Canada and London?

London is typically 5 to 8 hours ahead of Canada, depending on your location in Canada.

5. Can I call London using my smartphone?

Yes, simply use the same dialing format and ensure you understand your carrier's international rates.

6. How do I avoid high charges when calling internationally?

Consider using a calling plan, prepaid card, or VoIP service to save on international call costs.

7. What number format should I use when calling London?

You should use the format: 011 + 44 + 20 + Local Number.

8. Are there any hidden fees when calling internationally?

Always check with your provider for potential hidden fees related to international calls.

9. Can I use WhatsApp to call London?

Yes, WhatsApp allows you to make calls over the internet, which can be free if you have a data connection.

10. What if I have trouble connecting?

If you encounter issues connecting, double-check the number format and ensure that your phone plan supports international calls.