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Wales & Ireland (6N / 7D)
Overview
The United Kingdom (UK) is a sovereign country located off the northwestern coast of mainland Europe. It consists of four nations: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, with London serving as its capital. The UK is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, the North Sea, the English Channel, and the Irish Sea, giving it a unique maritime identity.
Rich in history and culture, the UK played a pivotal role in shaping modern democracy, industry, and global affairs. It was the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution and boasts a legacy of influential figures in literature, science, and politics, such as William Shakespeare, Charles Darwin, and Winston Churchill. The UK’s political system is a constitutional monarchy combined with a parliamentary democracy. The reigning monarch, currently King Charles III, serves as the head of state, while the Prime Minister leads the government. Tourism is a major draw, with iconic landmarks like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Stonehenge, and Edinburgh Castle. The UK also offers scenic landscapes, including the Scottish Highlands, Lake District, and coastal cliffs like Dover. Economically, the UK is a global financial hub with a diverse economy spanning finance, technology, manufacturing, and the creative industries. It is a member of international organizations like the United Nations and NATO, though it exited the European Union in 2020, a move known as Brexit. The UK’s multicultural society is enriched by its diverse population, offering a vibrant blend of traditions, languages, and cuisines, making it a dynamic and influential nation on the world stage.
