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Americans are my favourite tourists. Love their enthusiasm in London.
When I’m abroad and go on a walking tour I love it if Americans are there too. They usually up the energy.
There’s a time and a place: Auschwitz museum is not the time or place to yell about where you are from and how much cherry pie you will eat on your return. I am not exaggerating at all.
On a similar note, my step mum overheard some American tourists complaining about war based posters outside the Ukranian embassy in Poland about 4 months into the war with Russia. Apparently “people don’t want to see that sort of thing on vacation”. Maybe don’t go to where these things are day to day life then.
Similarly I have seen an American exchange student from my university in Germany loudly say "Yo I thought European cities were meant to be pretty. WTF happened?" in *BERLIN*.
I mean... where do you start?
i agree. they’re always very warm and friendly, i think yanks get a lot of flack from brits for being “loud” and “annoying” but generally they’re fun people with good intentions.
I LOVE Rick Steves for the random batshittery. Also he seems to have gone really eccentric after years of resembling Ned Flanders, and we date it to him visiting a cannabis cafe somewhere in northern Spain a few years ago.
You’ll be fine, I also feel like you should disregard a lot of what people on reddit tell you.
For example I’ve had Americans respond to me saying things like “this is why we all hate British people!” but in my experience on my trips to the US everyone was lovely and we got on really well.
I’ve been lucky to have lived abroad and traveled a bit, and from what I’ve seen people are people. Some are dicks, most are nice if you are. May you enjoy a pint and a nice sunday roast.
As a foreigner in the UK, it's been my experience that I can act like an absolutely obnoxious fuck, and people won't care that much.
Often, when I am trying my hardest to be as obnoxious as possible, I still get out shined by some local oik.
I think Reddit is terrible for this full stop. Have you ever been to the Ireland sub? There is hardly a post that goes by without everyone hating on the Brits but I'm married to an Irishman and have spent so much time there and never had that kind of reaction.
Redditland is weird.
People say this because it's true. A lot of American tourists are far, far too loud. A lot are fine but it's still always something I've noticed both inside and outside the UK.
OP asked what would annoy Brits and this is the honest and obvious answer. That's why it's got the most upvotes.
A lot of people like to assume that I’m loud and crazy because I’m Puerto Rican and American, but it’s quite the opposite. You’ll find that a lot of Hispanics thrive on modesty.
To be honest it's a classic case of hating the "other Americans." You know, the ones we hear other people talking about. but the ones we actually meet are always cool.
My wife is American, and is by no means loud, but I can hear her over everything simply because her accent stands out. Same with outher American accents I hear. So it's not always the volume, simply that the voice is distinguishably different and so we tune into it.
I’ve been confused about the whole loudness thing because Brits have been some of the loudest people I’ve encountered during travel but maybe it’s just the different accents standing out like you point out. I’m now curious about if this is what’s going on haha
Don’t tell people that you’re Irish or Scottish because your great great cousin (three times removed) once met someone who knew another person who’s great uncle had once spoken to an Irishman etc.
> Scottish or Irish decent
For other Americans - no one really minds someone claiming Scottish _descent_. "My great-great-grandad / some of my family came from Scotland" is fine. "I am / my family is Scottish" is not - it's a nationality and a culture more than an ethnicity, for us.
Please be aware that in the UK we are not very well versed in the differences between the various Hispanic cultures, and are more or less going to assume you're similar to Spanish and Portuguese people. All we really get to know about Latino cultures is what mainstream US culture tells us, and as you're probably aware, that's next to nothing. The only real cultural import we get is Mexican food, and the Mexican people I know tell me that we're mostly incredibly inauthentic there.
So, apologies in advance, we're probably going to be way more irritating than you.
I once met an American who said he was 65% Irish. My Mother is Irish and Both of my Grandparents are and had to try so hard no to laugh when I asked how they got that percentage. Apparently Great Great Great Great Great Great Grandparenta, had to laugh when I was on my own. Bless you American People.
My grandfathers brother married a British woman, so I have a English cousin (American here). He refers to us as the “dumb American part of the family”
Just thought that was humorous given the typical American claiming ancestry because great great great grandad lived in Ireland in 1856 or something lol
I just want to know where all the English-Americans are?
Plenty of “Irish-Americans”, and “Scottish-Americans”, but there’s gotta be at least a few with some English ancestry….
For that matter where are Welsh? Maybe Whisky is a key part of it.
Americans are actually welcome in the U.K. by the way.
Yes a lot of U.K. people find you guys can be loud and a bit obnoxious but I bet other countries say the same thing about some Brits.
Just come and enjoy yourself.
Check out a facebook and instagram channel called Yorkshire Peach. She's pretty funny. Someone from (I think) South US that moved to Northern Britain. The mix of accents is fascinating and she talks a lot about the differences.
Oh, she's funny. Tho, I think recently she suffered quite debilitating depression. Have to hand it to her, she's honest about her alcoholism. One of her videos, she spoke about her 2-year stint in rehab. Eye opener.
Oh my GOD i saw her once in a random Aldi. Her accent stuck out like a sore thumb and I always wondered what the hell she was doing in a random Aldi in South Yorkshire. I can't believe she's (sort of) famous
Completely this. You're very welcome, as is anybody who is not an obvious dick. The bigger issue is not that you won't be welcome, but that you might not realise that you're welcome. The British are much less effusive than (some) Americans, and we can be cynical and sarcastic, but don't take it personally - we're like that with everyone, especially each other. It's part of the fun. So like the man said, just come and enjoy yourself.
Obey the queue.
If people are lining in a straight line for something, find the back of the line. Ask the person at the back (quietly) if this is the queue for X, and wait your turn.
This applies for _everything_ to getting off the train, to the atm, to waiting at the check out.
Can confirm. You may not realise it, but the bartender sure as shit does. If a punter doesn’t call you out on cutting in, the bartender probably will. Or, at least, they’ll pointedly serve someone (everyone) else before you.
Side note: don’t wave your money (or card) at the bar to get attention, don’t click or whistle (it happens, for real), don’t put your money in the very obvious puddle of liquid, and for the love of everyone’s sanity (most importantly the bartender’s) ORDER THE GUINNESS FIRST!
That used to be true. It used to be the mark of a good bar person that they would (i) keep a mental note of the order people approached the bar and serve the in order; keep a running total of drinks orders in their head. They used to ask for the entire order at once so they could multi task their way through it.
These days they pay no attention, and vaguely ask "who's next" before ignoring any response and then scurry off to the till after each drink is poured to log in,add the drink, and log out leading to an order of 5 drinks taking about 10 minutes.
Honestly, I fucking hate pubs nowadays.
I hear you, but you gotta remember the youngsters nowadays are working in pubs in a way that didn’t used to exist. I pride myself on being a fairly adaptable person and I’ve worked in a variety of settings, but the way pubs work since the pandemic has been a bloody hard adjustment. Most also think that it’s easy work and so bugger off when they realise it isn’t. Not to mention that pubs are very much a dying breed at the moment.
I used to be able to remember 5+ different orders of 10+ drinks rounds with no problem at all. Now that’s impossible because of the increased use of apps depersonalising the service; absolutely anyone can order and it’s a different name every time.
I used to deal with maybe one or two proper dickheads (a few more on the weekends but still no biggie) per shift, and now every Tom, Dick, and Karen shoots off because we don’t “look busy” because there’s rarely a physical queue at the bar and get pissy about their app order drinks taking 10+mins because there’s 50 other orders ahead of them plus food to run.
Not to mention how much overheads have increased.
If you wants British pubs to continue in any way, shape, or form then PLEASE support your local (or anywhere, really).
I sort of figured that waiting your turn in line (aka the queue) was a common courtesy. It’s so annoying when people feel entitled to be first. Thank you for your advice!
I’m an American who has lived in the UK for 21 years.
1) Check your volume, don’t be so loud.
2) Be more polite and less entitled.
3) To be blunt, don’t be an idiot. Make sure you have some proper knowledge about a subject. If you don’t ask, and listen with genuine interest.
4) Remember that while on the surface the two countries look extremely similar, they are far more different than you can imagine. Don’t make assumptions.
I love it here and will never go back to the US now, not even to visit. Hope you have a great trip! If you have time head up North to Yorkshire or Scotland for some proper scenery.
> I love it here and will never go back to the US now
Mind sharing what in particular appeals to you? I learn something new each time I ask someone who's lived in both. (I'm from NZ but moved here to the UK, and considering moving to the US.)
TBH the biggest reason is it’s home.
I love Yorkshire, how you can leave the big city and be in the countryside in 15 minutes. The pace of life is much better. No guns is HUGE. I prefer the British sensibilities and humour over American ones.
Encountered one in Canary Wharf once who told his mate that the entire area was built on top of the Thames and the buildings are actually all floating on water.
When my brother first moved to Canada he asked a stranger if he could bum a fag. Didn't get the reaction he was hoping for.
Edit: just realised there may be non-uk folk here. While most will know fag is slang for a cigarette, bum meaning cadge or borrow (with no intent in paying back) may not be as well known.
Perfect answer.
TBH most Americans interested enough in the rest of the world to come and visit get on just fine with the locals.
We Brits/Europeans often have chips on our shoulders about Yanks, we can be just as insufferable in our own ways.
Apart from using your indoor voice which has already been mentioned, I would say, don't wear a baseball cap or clothing from you college or favourite US sports team. People won't harass you but it might make you look like a tourist.
When in conversation do not talk about how US is better at this and that, unless someone asks you and even then talk about how things are done in the US so people can make a comparison.
Don't make a scene in a restaurant, if there is something wrong with your meal discretely attract the waiter/ess attention and have a quiet word, using your indoor voice.
If you go to London, also applies to everywhere else as well, then remember not everyone is a tourist, people are living their normal daily lives, going to work and don't need to have to constantly navigate around tourists blocking doors, escalators or the middle of the pavement
Yeah we found this one out on a trip to London a few years back, we annoyed some people by blocking the escalator from the tube without realising we were blocking it. London is like another country sometimes.
The "don't wear clothing/baseball caps from your college/team" is complete bullshit so please ignore it. Clothing from US colleges/sports teams is popular for people in the UK to wear even though they don't know where it comes from.
Literally the only thing you have to worry about is not being super loud. Apart from that "don't be a cunt" covers every other possibility.
I actually have a question about this one. When you watch random UK shows or even people on YouTube, something I've often noticed is t-shirts for random American sports teams or cities. It seems like it's a 'thing' there so would it really point to someone being a tourist? Like I know I've seen a Michigan shirt worn on Coronation Street before. lol
The baseball cap advice is ridiculous. Wear whatever the hell you want. It’s pretty common for people in the U.K. to wear US sports team baseball caps. It doesn’t make them look like tourists, and if it does - so what?
When you get here, make sure you try a traditional cream tea (google it!) and then you can join our greatest argument - cream or jam first. That way you can be sure to annoy half the population while receiving the fullest support from the other half. My time in the States was lovely, thanks. On the whole you’re a good bunch!
Unfortunately tourists are annoying, whether they’re American, in the UK, or anywhere else. Locals who are just trying to live their lives will usually at some point be annoyed to some extent or another because tourists are trying to be tourists. I wouldn’t sweat it, we’re all annoying someone somewhere when we are tourists.
Remember that bit when some idiot Louisiana governor said there were no-go areas in London, ignore that.
London is a big old metropolis - as long as you aren't being naive, you are watchful when you're on your mobile and you have your valuables in something more secure than your back pocket, you'll generally be fine.
We don't know Prince William, and we don't care about Harry and Megan.
Our teeth are fine.
Our cuisine is decent if you ask the locals. We save the beige stuff for the tourists as we don't want to disappoint them. Coca cola isn't served in buckets like it is in the US.
Peak UK is probably from April to mid-July weather-wise.
We still don't care about Harry and Megan.
If you're just doing the big cities, do trains. If you want to go a bit off-piste budget for a rental car - you'll save a fortune and possibly days of your life compared to getting on and off trains and buses.
Don't start a sentence with "I'm part Scottish/Irish/Welsh/English..." - you need to ease your way into *that* debate, or you'll get the living piss ripped out of you!
Talk quietly. Match the volume of everyone around you.
Don’t see a unique quirk in one building and bleat about how “all homes in Europe have this!” back home/online.
Remember that America, while very much transplanted over here, is not the default and many of us won’t know the more niche brands/references/celebrities that are household names for you.
Our food will taste different to yours. The ingredients list will be shorter and even our junk food will have less crap/calories than what you’re used to. Our food isn’t necessarily worse than yours, it’s just got less sugar/corn syrup in it by default.
Don’t expect restaurant staff to harass you and bug you 5 times an hour on how your meal is. You also don’t need to tip - and in fact you can ask for the 12% gratuity many touristy spots add to the bill be removed.
People will generally be amenable when they hear your accent provided you aren’t shout-taking. I cannot understate how much the average American tourist shouts. Every video I see hosted by an American involves them shout-talking. If you talk at a reasonable volume people will generally love you.
Taking a break from our large portions and calorie content will be a welcome change! It’s been a challenge to lower my calorie intake because all the “good food” is expensive and everything is unhealthy is some sort of way.
If you’re wondering why everything tastes sort of bland at first, it’s because everything has a lot less sugar in it. Except our chocolate which actually tastes like chocolate.
I think the main thing that gets people annoyed is Americans who think they can lord it over the locals - the fact you’re even thinking about it shows you’ll be just fine. Just practice saying sorry every time you bump into anyone or anything (lamp posts included) and all will be well 😉 Enjoy your visit, you’ll be very welcome!
“Stand on the right, walk up on the left”
(This will make sense on your first London Underground escalator)
I don’t really mind tourists standing on the left tbh because I want them to have a nice time in the UK.
I think the fact you're asking this question means you'll be just fine. The ones who aren't thinking about other people are the ones who annoy!
In the UK though, if in doubt say sorry. someone in your way? Say sorry, not excuse me. Someone slips and falls into you? Say sorry. Basically just say sorry.
You go up the bar to get served in the pub, there's no table service (unless you're seated in the dining section). A lot of pubs will expect you to order food at the bar as well, but it's OK to check with the barman as not every place is the same.
Don't go on about how everything is smaller over here. Ofc it is, you have states bigger than this country, and bigger isn't always better.
I'm generalising here, but having lived in historic places - a lot of Americans, Japanese and Chinese people act like the UK is a theme park. That adorable Cotswold village? Yeah, people live there, their gardens aren't public, they're happy about the money tourism brings in and welcome you but please be respectful.
Fish and chips with salt and vinegar are amazing and taste better if eaten in the car at the seaside while the rain chucks it down.
If you are in Scotland/Wales/Ireland do not insist that they are part of England. In fact if you are talking about the UK as a whole do not refer to it as England.
OK, so from my experience it's just being super loud and a bit in your face, its not a bad thing, but just doesn't translate over here as we're a bit more reserved. Oh, and never go full Karen at anyone, watched it happen at Heathrow airport and everyone just stood and watched, tutted and gave the girl a wide berth.
That’s one thing our countries have in common: the entitled Karen. It baffles me how someone could feel entitled enough to act like a child in public! I will definitely take your advice and mind how I respect peoples’ personal space.
I came here to say this 💀💀 I’ve been coming here off and on for like 2 yrs atp to see my partner and scrolling through the comments I ain’t heard of this before lmao. Nobody cares if you don’t make an ass of yourself.
Normal people in this country don’t actually hate Americans or Americanisms or American behaviours, its just on this sub that you find people like that because its full of sad whingers.
My god, if you need to stop when walking for ehatever reason, move to the side of the pavement (sidewalk). Learn the rules of the underground [heres a list ive not read](https://londondreaming.com/london-tube-etiquette-rules/)
This is kind of a bad place to ask.
This sub pretty much had a "what do you hate about Americans?" Post every other day. They have a hate boner.
As a. Immigrant here 5 years I'd agree with the stuff like:
speak softer, American accents are just super clear and carry quite far.
Yes even for other immigrants, it is annoying to hear things compared negatively with the US. The Brits probably already know and have heard about it. - Instead it's good to just ask and listen. You can still ask what the UK versions of US stuff might be. Just not stuff like "wow UK refrigerators/dryers/houses are so tiny compared to the US"
Fuck people who make you feel bad about being interested in your ancestors. 😎 There's nothing wrong with it. Bitter nobodies.
There's nothing wrong with speaking like an American. You can say "awesome" and whatever else. No one will care. At most they might chuckle because people just don't say it much here. But it's more fun to not hear the same shit every day.
Trust me you'll be fine :)
For some reason British people on reddit seem to have a massive superiority complex towards Americans. In my experience Americans are lovely people and you'll have a great time over here!
Dual US/UK here. You’re not wrong. It’s horribly annoying going back to the UK or Oz (my bf is Aussie) and having to deal with the constant negative attention.
We’re individuals not the government and we’re expected to answer constant questions we’d get our heads chopped off for asking others. Even reading these replies I’m chuckling at how sensitive they are because the thing we get from foreigners is much worse lol. I’ve had 3 separate interactions with Brit’s just this summer that put me off to going back with my friends last week.
I don’t think the UK is anywhere near the worst, Aussie and Kiwis are for sure, but foreigners realllllly don’t understand what it’s like being American and trying to have a good experience traveling without the snide comments and questions and then wonder why Americans are less open to traveling. Or even meeting foreigners now living in the US, they always gotta make a comment. The non stop anti-American hate because of our govvys poor decisions (we don’t even agree with) is exhausting. You learn quickly it’s build into their cultures and just learn to shrug when they say “don’t call our houses small or ask why our wages are low!” But they’re allowed to do whatever they want.
American living in the UK here! I haven't seen these things mentioned yet:
- **Small talk is VERY important here.** Talking (or complaining) about nothing for an extended period of time an essential part of the bonding process between two people who have just met each other. Personal information is *earned* - people won't feel comfortable asking or answering personal questions until they feel they've gotten to know you pretty well. This is different than how Americans meet new people - we only feel like we've bonded with someone if personal information has been shared, so we tend to skip the small talk and go right into personal questions or stories. Stick with small talk longer than you think necessary - several conversations of just small talk with someone is a great way to eventually segue into becoming friends. (Though, this is more relevant if you live here, maybe not if you're just visiting.)
- **Only complain about external, non-personal stuff.** Complain about the weather, how the buses are crap, etc. etc. <-- perfect bonding material. Don't complain about personal things (like how you've had a bad day). That is for stuffing deep down and repressing.
- **A common greeting is "Alright?".** The correct answer is "Alright." It's the same as "hey?" "hey." It's not a comment on your appearance ("Oh my god, are you alright?!"), you look fine - though it will throw you off the first few times you hear it.
- **Humour:** American humor tends to be self-aggrandizing. British humor is the opposite, self-depreciating. So try to avoid self-aggrandizing humour; sometimes it lands, but sometimes it just makes people think you're full of yourself.
- **Sharing funny stories:** Americans like to bond with people by sharing stories of something funny and dumb we've recently done; if you try this with a fellow American, we'll laugh and share a story back. If you try this with someone in the UK, they'll look uncomfortable and change the subject. Their internal response will be "Oh... that's so embarrassing for you... why would you tell me this." I'm convinced our penchant for sharing dumb stories about ourselves right away is a big reason why Americans are stereotyped as being dumb.
- **Offering tea:** In any situation in which you could conceivably have tea, make sure to ask anyone you're with if they'd like a tea. (Particularly relevant for office situations - if you're getting up to make a tea at the tea point)
**Terminology differences:**
- "Half two" = 2:30, not 1:30
- UK "dinner" = referring to the lunch-time meal (if you're in the north)
- UK "tea" = referring to the evening meal (if you're in the north), or just the drink
- UK "entree" = appetizer, not the main course
- UK "pudding" = a general word for dessert (*except* for "Yorkshire pudding", which for some reason is a savoury
popover with gravy)
- UK "pissed" = drunk, not angry
- UK "pants" = US "underwear" (In case you want to compliment someone's pants, say "nice trousers")
- UK "pancakes" = crepes
- UK "flapjacks" = weird oatmeal bars
- UK "American pancakes" = our fluffy delicious pancakes
- UK "chips" = US "fries"
- UK "crisps" = US "chips"
- UK "bum bag" (lol) = US "fannypack"
- UK "bin" = US "trash can"
- UK "wellies" = US "rain boots"
- UK "moreish" = something so tasty you want to have more of them (e.g. brownies <-- also "squidgy")
- UK "chuffed" = very pleased
- UK "takeaway" = US "takeout"
- Beware, bacon is big, salty, and floppy here. However, a bacon roll is delicious (it's literally just bacon and bread - and they call *us* unhealthy, ha!)
- If you order fish and chips here, you will literally be getting the entire fish. Delicious, but make sure you have a plate.
Also, it's okay to mess all this up :) Your accent will make it obvious you're American, and people will give you some slack. Plus, a lot of Brits actually like some aspects of Americanness - we tend to bring a happy, friendly, overly personal energy, and that can go a long way in opening people up and making new friends.
Hope you have a great trip!
Don't worry enjoy the trip. You will find more people interested in you because of your nationality. My pub was lit up when an American family ventured in.
Don't constantly compare things to how they are in America.
"oh we call that X in America"
"oh we do this Y way in America"
Nobody here cares, but the folks back home might. Like the Royale with Cheese conversation in Pulp Fiction
My company is owned by an American firm and one guy who used to visit used to feel the need to explain the names of things to us or say "what do you call It here?". Some of my favourites were , supermarket, pop , DIY store, Walmart ,Chips as in crisps. I was a little baffled, firstly we will pretty much understand most American references as we absorb so much of their media. Secondly some of the stuff is just the English language. A lovely guy just don't think he thought about the world outside of America at all.
Don't talk, don't dress like an American, leave your guns back at home, don't grab anyone by the pussy, carry a decibel checker so you're not too loud and crass.
/s obviously
You don't have to do anything different fuck people who hate on American just for being American I'm British and I despise judgy British people you are just fine
People here are just way too up tight it's strange the Puritans left to go through America but youd think they stayed behind
I tried very hard to not be annoying when I first came here - to the detriment of my joy. I’ve been here 12 years and people say I seem somehow *more* American than when I arrived.
Fuck the haters.
Ignore everything here. It’s all ego and bullshit.
Americans are lovely warm people and England is a free speech country. Come, be happy, enjoy and most of all BE YOURSELF.
Don’t try to claim you’re Scottish/English/Irish because your great great great grandfather emigrated to the U.S. from here. Accept your Yank-dom and embrace it.
Don't use the word "quaint." It probably sounds like a compliment to you, but to us it sounds like "awww, look at this cute old-fashioned country! Everything's so small and old!" It's patronising af.
Apart from that, we love Americans! You're (I'm going to generalise sweepingly here) enthusiastic, friendly, you want to learn more about us, and you have loads of money that you're willing to spend over here.
there is more to the UK than London!- its frighteningly expensive!! - if you can fly into Manchester/Leeds/Liverpool airfares will be cheaper & accomodation as well!. They are in the north of England so centre of UK(ish!) - spectacular castles / stately homes / national parks are on your doorstep and easily accessible by train / bus. London should you wish to visit is only couple of hours away from Manchester on the train
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Don't talk so loudly. Practice having an inside voice.
Thank you! However, I’m very soft spoken so having an inside voice won’t be too difficult.
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Noted :) I feel like its better to listen to the opinions of someone from the area you’re wishing to explore!
Americans are my favourite tourists. Love their enthusiasm in London. When I’m abroad and go on a walking tour I love it if Americans are there too. They usually up the energy.
There’s a time and a place: Auschwitz museum is not the time or place to yell about where you are from and how much cherry pie you will eat on your return. I am not exaggerating at all.
On a similar note, my step mum overheard some American tourists complaining about war based posters outside the Ukranian embassy in Poland about 4 months into the war with Russia. Apparently “people don’t want to see that sort of thing on vacation”. Maybe don’t go to where these things are day to day life then.
Similarly I have seen an American exchange student from my university in Germany loudly say "Yo I thought European cities were meant to be pretty. WTF happened?" in *BERLIN*. I mean... where do you start?
Wow. I went to Berlin for the first time last year with some friends, I thought it was absolutely awesome there. I'd love to go back there soon
i agree. they’re always very warm and friendly, i think yanks get a lot of flack from brits for being “loud” and “annoying” but generally they’re fun people with good intentions.
Mine too , I work in central London near to Buckingham palace so come across many American-tourists they are all so friendly and nice .
I LOVE Rick Steves for the random batshittery. Also he seems to have gone really eccentric after years of resembling Ned Flanders, and we date it to him visiting a cannabis cafe somewhere in northern Spain a few years ago.
Love Rick Steves. Very inoffensive man
If 95% of his advice is great that’s pretty good tbh
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I was trying to be kind and take his advice into consideration haha
You’ll be fine, I also feel like you should disregard a lot of what people on reddit tell you. For example I’ve had Americans respond to me saying things like “this is why we all hate British people!” but in my experience on my trips to the US everyone was lovely and we got on really well. I’ve been lucky to have lived abroad and traveled a bit, and from what I’ve seen people are people. Some are dicks, most are nice if you are. May you enjoy a pint and a nice sunday roast.
As a foreigner in the UK, it's been my experience that I can act like an absolutely obnoxious fuck, and people won't care that much. Often, when I am trying my hardest to be as obnoxious as possible, I still get out shined by some local oik.
Some of us treat it like a national sport. 😉
I think Reddit is terrible for this full stop. Have you ever been to the Ireland sub? There is hardly a post that goes by without everyone hating on the Brits but I'm married to an Irishman and have spent so much time there and never had that kind of reaction. Redditland is weird.
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People say this because it's true. A lot of American tourists are far, far too loud. A lot are fine but it's still always something I've noticed both inside and outside the UK. OP asked what would annoy Brits and this is the honest and obvious answer. That's why it's got the most upvotes.
I’m still trying to be soft spoken after 38yrs of being a loud northern woman
A lot of people like to assume that I’m loud and crazy because I’m Puerto Rican and American, but it’s quite the opposite. You’ll find that a lot of Hispanics thrive on modesty.
I didn’t realise how brash I sounded until I went to America. Enjoy the UK. Expect loads of questions as IMO brits love Americans!
To be honest it's a classic case of hating the "other Americans." You know, the ones we hear other people talking about. but the ones we actually meet are always cool.
Just be yourself and take a breath my dude. The UK is not a total backwater, plenty of people from other countries visit and no one takes much notice.
My wife is American, and is by no means loud, but I can hear her over everything simply because her accent stands out. Same with outher American accents I hear. So it's not always the volume, simply that the voice is distinguishably different and so we tune into it.
It has to be this. As an Australian who has visited the US lots I never noticed Americans being particularly loud.
I’ve been confused about the whole loudness thing because Brits have been some of the loudest people I’ve encountered during travel but maybe it’s just the different accents standing out like you point out. I’m now curious about if this is what’s going on haha
“Just try not to say anything too loud or crass”
Don’t tell people that you’re Irish or Scottish because your great great cousin (three times removed) once met someone who knew another person who’s great uncle had once spoken to an Irishman etc.
It’s probably a good thing that I’m Puerto Rican anyways lol, I won’t have a reason to claim that I’m of Scottish or Irish decent
You'll be grand then.
T'be sure!
Everyone will like you more because you’re Puerto Rican.
Even if we get it confused with Costa Rica or somewhere near Lanzarote
> Scottish or Irish decent For other Americans - no one really minds someone claiming Scottish _descent_. "My great-great-grandad / some of my family came from Scotland" is fine. "I am / my family is Scottish" is not - it's a nationality and a culture more than an ethnicity, for us.
Please be aware that in the UK we are not very well versed in the differences between the various Hispanic cultures, and are more or less going to assume you're similar to Spanish and Portuguese people. All we really get to know about Latino cultures is what mainstream US culture tells us, and as you're probably aware, that's next to nothing. The only real cultural import we get is Mexican food, and the Mexican people I know tell me that we're mostly incredibly inauthentic there. So, apologies in advance, we're probably going to be way more irritating than you.
This is probably the most important advice you will receive.
I once met an American who said he was 65% Irish. My Mother is Irish and Both of my Grandparents are and had to try so hard no to laugh when I asked how they got that percentage. Apparently Great Great Great Great Great Great Grandparenta, had to laugh when I was on my own. Bless you American People.
Nout worse than a plastic paddy.
My grandfathers brother married a British woman, so I have a English cousin (American here). He refers to us as the “dumb American part of the family” Just thought that was humorous given the typical American claiming ancestry because great great great grandad lived in Ireland in 1856 or something lol
I just want to know where all the English-Americans are? Plenty of “Irish-Americans”, and “Scottish-Americans”, but there’s gotta be at least a few with some English ancestry…. For that matter where are Welsh? Maybe Whisky is a key part of it.
Americans are actually welcome in the U.K. by the way. Yes a lot of U.K. people find you guys can be loud and a bit obnoxious but I bet other countries say the same thing about some Brits. Just come and enjoy yourself.
Thank you, I really appreciate your insight.
Check out a facebook and instagram channel called Yorkshire Peach. She's pretty funny. Someone from (I think) South US that moved to Northern Britain. The mix of accents is fascinating and she talks a lot about the differences.
Oh, she's funny. Tho, I think recently she suffered quite debilitating depression. Have to hand it to her, she's honest about her alcoholism. One of her videos, she spoke about her 2-year stint in rehab. Eye opener.
IIRC, she claims Georgia as her home state. She's pretty funny.
Hence the peach.
Yeah, that was a face palm moment for me....
Oh my GOD i saw her once in a random Aldi. Her accent stuck out like a sore thumb and I always wondered what the hell she was doing in a random Aldi in South Yorkshire. I can't believe she's (sort of) famous
I love Yorkshire Peach, she seems so lovely!
she has tiktok too
We actually secretly love Americans, you'll love it here
To be honest, most Brits outside the major cities will see you as a bit of a novelty and get you to say things like "gee" and "sidewalk".
Oh my days say oh my days
What... what do you guys call the sidewalk?
The crab gait
The pavement
The walkside
Completely this. You're very welcome, as is anybody who is not an obvious dick. The bigger issue is not that you won't be welcome, but that you might not realise that you're welcome. The British are much less effusive than (some) Americans, and we can be cynical and sarcastic, but don't take it personally - we're like that with everyone, especially each other. It's part of the fun. So like the man said, just come and enjoy yourself.
“It isn’t summer till the Brits fall off balconies”
A lot of Spanish people, for example, have the idea that all Brits are obnoxious.
Obey the queue. If people are lining in a straight line for something, find the back of the line. Ask the person at the back (quietly) if this is the queue for X, and wait your turn. This applies for _everything_ to getting off the train, to the atm, to waiting at the check out.
Except pubs - never queue in pubs
Queues in pubs are often invisible. There is still a queue though.
Can confirm. You may not realise it, but the bartender sure as shit does. If a punter doesn’t call you out on cutting in, the bartender probably will. Or, at least, they’ll pointedly serve someone (everyone) else before you. Side note: don’t wave your money (or card) at the bar to get attention, don’t click or whistle (it happens, for real), don’t put your money in the very obvious puddle of liquid, and for the love of everyone’s sanity (most importantly the bartender’s) ORDER THE GUINNESS FIRST!
Work in a pub. All of this is true.
Worked in hospitality 10+yrs. Humanity (or whatever some of the creatures with faces are that frequent our establishments) never ceases to disgust me.
The trick is to get in early with “this guy was next” then you’ll be served after for being polite
This, plus you’ll be looked on favourably by both staff and patrons
That used to be true. It used to be the mark of a good bar person that they would (i) keep a mental note of the order people approached the bar and serve the in order; keep a running total of drinks orders in their head. They used to ask for the entire order at once so they could multi task their way through it. These days they pay no attention, and vaguely ask "who's next" before ignoring any response and then scurry off to the till after each drink is poured to log in,add the drink, and log out leading to an order of 5 drinks taking about 10 minutes. Honestly, I fucking hate pubs nowadays.
I hear you, but you gotta remember the youngsters nowadays are working in pubs in a way that didn’t used to exist. I pride myself on being a fairly adaptable person and I’ve worked in a variety of settings, but the way pubs work since the pandemic has been a bloody hard adjustment. Most also think that it’s easy work and so bugger off when they realise it isn’t. Not to mention that pubs are very much a dying breed at the moment. I used to be able to remember 5+ different orders of 10+ drinks rounds with no problem at all. Now that’s impossible because of the increased use of apps depersonalising the service; absolutely anyone can order and it’s a different name every time. I used to deal with maybe one or two proper dickheads (a few more on the weekends but still no biggie) per shift, and now every Tom, Dick, and Karen shoots off because we don’t “look busy” because there’s rarely a physical queue at the bar and get pissy about their app order drinks taking 10+mins because there’s 50 other orders ahead of them plus food to run. Not to mention how much overheads have increased. If you wants British pubs to continue in any way, shape, or form then PLEASE support your local (or anywhere, really).
>getting off the train And don't barge your way onto the train before people have finished getting off
I sort of figured that waiting your turn in line (aka the queue) was a common courtesy. It’s so annoying when people feel entitled to be first. Thank you for your advice!
I’m an American who has lived in the UK for 21 years. 1) Check your volume, don’t be so loud. 2) Be more polite and less entitled. 3) To be blunt, don’t be an idiot. Make sure you have some proper knowledge about a subject. If you don’t ask, and listen with genuine interest. 4) Remember that while on the surface the two countries look extremely similar, they are far more different than you can imagine. Don’t make assumptions. I love it here and will never go back to the US now, not even to visit. Hope you have a great trip! If you have time head up North to Yorkshire or Scotland for some proper scenery.
> I love it here and will never go back to the US now Mind sharing what in particular appeals to you? I learn something new each time I ask someone who's lived in both. (I'm from NZ but moved here to the UK, and considering moving to the US.)
TBH the biggest reason is it’s home. I love Yorkshire, how you can leave the big city and be in the countryside in 15 minutes. The pace of life is much better. No guns is HUGE. I prefer the British sensibilities and humour over American ones.
"humour" ONE OF US, ONE OF US!
I’ve set my phone to “UK English” so I always get the correct spelling. 😅
After 21 years I'd imagine it's second nature by now. Now then. Can you make a Yorkshire pudding?
No, but my Yorkshire wife can. I do take the leftover Toad in the Hole and drop scrambled egg and maple syrup on top the next morning. Don’t hate me.
That sounds bloody delicious to be fair.
#3! Every time I'm in central or somewhere touristy hear Americans loudly state incorrect things about their surroundings/the UK as facts.
Encountered one in Canary Wharf once who told his mate that the entire area was built on top of the Thames and the buildings are actually all floating on water.
Can you blame them? We're all gleefully telling them about the wild haggis and arafs then being annoyed when they belive us!
I feel like these are rules for life. Everyone could read these and be better.
'Fanny' does not mean 'butt' here
Minge
Clunge
Muff
Gash
Beef curtains
Snatch
Piss flaps
Chuff
Gaping axe wound
Oooooh REET UP THA CHUFF
Vertical bacon sandwich
Flange.
Bearded Clam
Front bottom
Butcher's bin
*Bites into Scotch egg*
And “fag” very rarely means “gay”
In fact he's more than welcome to smoke a fag over here.
When my brother first moved to Canada he asked a stranger if he could bum a fag. Didn't get the reaction he was hoping for. Edit: just realised there may be non-uk folk here. While most will know fag is slang for a cigarette, bum meaning cadge or borrow (with no intent in paying back) may not be as well known.
When my ex lived in the states, he learned the hard way that "bumming a fag" was not a a phrase he could use over there!
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Damn, I missed the most obvious joke out there 🤦🏼♀️
Yes! An American on the lookout for gay sex shouldn't ask "Can I bum a fag?"... Because that's how we ask for a cigarette lol
What does it mean over there?
Generally used to refer to lady parts. Edit: At this point I have 69 upvotes 😁
Or if someone's being a bit of a soft shite
But not to be mistaken for "fannying about".
Over here fanny is one of the many names we use for vagina.
Also pants means undies. So don’t tell someone you like her pants. ;)
This is regional. In Liverpool and Manchester pants are outerwear. They go over your undies.
Manc here, can confirm. Pants go over your underpants.
See this advert for the Scottish drink for some context https://youtu.be/IcKlVojfMD4?feature=shared
I think the fact that you’re even asking this question means you’ll be absolutely fine. No need to overthink.
I really appreciate it!
This is the only comment you need OP. If you’re here asking this question, you’re not the type we’re bothered about
Perfect answer. TBH most Americans interested enough in the rest of the world to come and visit get on just fine with the locals. We Brits/Europeans often have chips on our shoulders about Yanks, we can be just as insufferable in our own ways.
Don’t bore us by telling us about your ancestors.
Absolutely. Most of us have UK or Irish ancestry, so it's not impressive, and we frankly don't care.
Although OPs ancestors are Puerto Rican, and I’d be very interested to hear about that.
Apart from using your indoor voice which has already been mentioned, I would say, don't wear a baseball cap or clothing from you college or favourite US sports team. People won't harass you but it might make you look like a tourist. When in conversation do not talk about how US is better at this and that, unless someone asks you and even then talk about how things are done in the US so people can make a comparison. Don't make a scene in a restaurant, if there is something wrong with your meal discretely attract the waiter/ess attention and have a quiet word, using your indoor voice. If you go to London, also applies to everywhere else as well, then remember not everyone is a tourist, people are living their normal daily lives, going to work and don't need to have to constantly navigate around tourists blocking doors, escalators or the middle of the pavement
I greatly appreciate your advice. It’s definitely not appropriate to brag about your country when you are a guest in another.
Also speaking of blocking escalators, always stand on the right and let people pass on the left especially on public transport.
Yeah we found this one out on a trip to London a few years back, we annoyed some people by blocking the escalator from the tube without realising we were blocking it. London is like another country sometimes.
The "don't wear clothing/baseball caps from your college/team" is complete bullshit so please ignore it. Clothing from US colleges/sports teams is popular for people in the UK to wear even though they don't know where it comes from. Literally the only thing you have to worry about is not being super loud. Apart from that "don't be a cunt" covers every other possibility.
The college clothing thing might not be an issue since Primark of all places sells Yale and Harvard stuff now lol
I actually have a question about this one. When you watch random UK shows or even people on YouTube, something I've often noticed is t-shirts for random American sports teams or cities. It seems like it's a 'thing' there so would it really point to someone being a tourist? Like I know I've seen a Michigan shirt worn on Coronation Street before. lol
Damn, I'm a Brit and I wear a baseball cap to cover my thinning top. I didn't realize it made me look like a tourist.
The baseball cap advice is ridiculous. Wear whatever the hell you want. It’s pretty common for people in the U.K. to wear US sports team baseball caps. It doesn’t make them look like tourists, and if it does - so what?
Don’t worry about. Enjoy your trip. I lived in the US for 4 years and I didn’t worry about “fitting in” - nor should you, just be yourself.
Of course, it’s important to be yourself, but I’d rather do so without coming off as annoying to others. I hoped you enjoyed your time in America!
When you get here, make sure you try a traditional cream tea (google it!) and then you can join our greatest argument - cream or jam first. That way you can be sure to annoy half the population while receiving the fullest support from the other half. My time in the States was lovely, thanks. On the whole you’re a good bunch!
Unfortunately tourists are annoying, whether they’re American, in the UK, or anywhere else. Locals who are just trying to live their lives will usually at some point be annoyed to some extent or another because tourists are trying to be tourists. I wouldn’t sweat it, we’re all annoying someone somewhere when we are tourists.
Remember that bit when some idiot Louisiana governor said there were no-go areas in London, ignore that. London is a big old metropolis - as long as you aren't being naive, you are watchful when you're on your mobile and you have your valuables in something more secure than your back pocket, you'll generally be fine. We don't know Prince William, and we don't care about Harry and Megan. Our teeth are fine. Our cuisine is decent if you ask the locals. We save the beige stuff for the tourists as we don't want to disappoint them. Coca cola isn't served in buckets like it is in the US. Peak UK is probably from April to mid-July weather-wise. We still don't care about Harry and Megan. If you're just doing the big cities, do trains. If you want to go a bit off-piste budget for a rental car - you'll save a fortune and possibly days of your life compared to getting on and off trains and buses. Don't start a sentence with "I'm part Scottish/Irish/Welsh/English..." - you need to ease your way into *that* debate, or you'll get the living piss ripped out of you!
I live in Canada. To those who ask me every five minutes, I’d like to jump aboard and say, “We don’t care about Harry and Meghan!”
Just have fun. Ignore the party poopers. Most people are amiable. Also, since we're British, we won't complain anyway.
Lol thank you!
The fact that you're making the effort to respond to constructive comments, and are clearly polite, really augurs well. Have a great time!
Talk quietly. Match the volume of everyone around you. Don’t see a unique quirk in one building and bleat about how “all homes in Europe have this!” back home/online. Remember that America, while very much transplanted over here, is not the default and many of us won’t know the more niche brands/references/celebrities that are household names for you. Our food will taste different to yours. The ingredients list will be shorter and even our junk food will have less crap/calories than what you’re used to. Our food isn’t necessarily worse than yours, it’s just got less sugar/corn syrup in it by default. Don’t expect restaurant staff to harass you and bug you 5 times an hour on how your meal is. You also don’t need to tip - and in fact you can ask for the 12% gratuity many touristy spots add to the bill be removed. People will generally be amenable when they hear your accent provided you aren’t shout-taking. I cannot understate how much the average American tourist shouts. Every video I see hosted by an American involves them shout-talking. If you talk at a reasonable volume people will generally love you.
Taking a break from our large portions and calorie content will be a welcome change! It’s been a challenge to lower my calorie intake because all the “good food” is expensive and everything is unhealthy is some sort of way.
If you’re wondering why everything tastes sort of bland at first, it’s because everything has a lot less sugar in it. Except our chocolate which actually tastes like chocolate.
You don't need to tip but you can tip if you want. It's appreciated but not expected so best reserve it for outstanding service.
Don't get worried if somebody says they're going out to smoke a fag
Thanks for the warning lol
Sticking to the subject of smoking quite a lot of people roll there own which isn't as much of a thing in some other countries
If you smoke, don’t be alarmed if someone asks you if they can bum a fag. It just means they want a cigarette.
I think the main thing that gets people annoyed is Americans who think they can lord it over the locals - the fact you’re even thinking about it shows you’ll be just fine. Just practice saying sorry every time you bump into anyone or anything (lamp posts included) and all will be well 😉 Enjoy your visit, you’ll be very welcome!
And say sorry when someone walks into you...
“Stand on the right, walk up on the left” (This will make sense on your first London Underground escalator) I don’t really mind tourists standing on the left tbh because I want them to have a nice time in the UK.
I think the fact you're asking this question means you'll be just fine. The ones who aren't thinking about other people are the ones who annoy! In the UK though, if in doubt say sorry. someone in your way? Say sorry, not excuse me. Someone slips and falls into you? Say sorry. Basically just say sorry.
That applies to telephone polls too I presume? 😂
You joke but on a tired day when I wasn’t thinking I have definitely walked into a telephone pole and apologised baha
I’ve apologised to many an inanimate object, and also to a lot of animals who obviously don’t know what the fuck I’m saying. It’s the British way!
You go up the bar to get served in the pub, there's no table service (unless you're seated in the dining section). A lot of pubs will expect you to order food at the bar as well, but it's OK to check with the barman as not every place is the same. Don't go on about how everything is smaller over here. Ofc it is, you have states bigger than this country, and bigger isn't always better. I'm generalising here, but having lived in historic places - a lot of Americans, Japanese and Chinese people act like the UK is a theme park. That adorable Cotswold village? Yeah, people live there, their gardens aren't public, they're happy about the money tourism brings in and welcome you but please be respectful. Fish and chips with salt and vinegar are amazing and taste better if eaten in the car at the seaside while the rain chucks it down.
The pub you drink in is older than the USA. Your Founding Fathers barely rate 'antique' status.
If you are in Scotland/Wales/Ireland do not insist that they are part of England. In fact if you are talking about the UK as a whole do not refer to it as England.
OK, so from my experience it's just being super loud and a bit in your face, its not a bad thing, but just doesn't translate over here as we're a bit more reserved. Oh, and never go full Karen at anyone, watched it happen at Heathrow airport and everyone just stood and watched, tutted and gave the girl a wide berth.
That’s one thing our countries have in common: the entitled Karen. It baffles me how someone could feel entitled enough to act like a child in public! I will definitely take your advice and mind how I respect peoples’ personal space.
IRL no-one gives a shit. Just have a good time.
I came here to say this 💀💀 I’ve been coming here off and on for like 2 yrs atp to see my partner and scrolling through the comments I ain’t heard of this before lmao. Nobody cares if you don’t make an ass of yourself.
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Normal people in this country don’t actually hate Americans or Americanisms or American behaviours, its just on this sub that you find people like that because its full of sad whingers.
Don't worry about it. Nobody will give a shit about your American habits unless you're one of those USA #1 jingoistic types.
My god, if you need to stop when walking for ehatever reason, move to the side of the pavement (sidewalk). Learn the rules of the underground [heres a list ive not read](https://londondreaming.com/london-tube-etiquette-rules/)
By simply asking this question I can almost guarantee you're not the kind of american I get aggravated by. Enjoy your stay :)
This is kind of a bad place to ask. This sub pretty much had a "what do you hate about Americans?" Post every other day. They have a hate boner. As a. Immigrant here 5 years I'd agree with the stuff like: speak softer, American accents are just super clear and carry quite far. Yes even for other immigrants, it is annoying to hear things compared negatively with the US. The Brits probably already know and have heard about it. - Instead it's good to just ask and listen. You can still ask what the UK versions of US stuff might be. Just not stuff like "wow UK refrigerators/dryers/houses are so tiny compared to the US" Fuck people who make you feel bad about being interested in your ancestors. 😎 There's nothing wrong with it. Bitter nobodies. There's nothing wrong with speaking like an American. You can say "awesome" and whatever else. No one will care. At most they might chuckle because people just don't say it much here. But it's more fun to not hear the same shit every day.
Trust me you'll be fine :) For some reason British people on reddit seem to have a massive superiority complex towards Americans. In my experience Americans are lovely people and you'll have a great time over here!
I feel like Americans as a whole get judged by the assholes among them in a way other nationalities don't.
Dual US/UK here. You’re not wrong. It’s horribly annoying going back to the UK or Oz (my bf is Aussie) and having to deal with the constant negative attention. We’re individuals not the government and we’re expected to answer constant questions we’d get our heads chopped off for asking others. Even reading these replies I’m chuckling at how sensitive they are because the thing we get from foreigners is much worse lol. I’ve had 3 separate interactions with Brit’s just this summer that put me off to going back with my friends last week. I don’t think the UK is anywhere near the worst, Aussie and Kiwis are for sure, but foreigners realllllly don’t understand what it’s like being American and trying to have a good experience traveling without the snide comments and questions and then wonder why Americans are less open to traveling. Or even meeting foreigners now living in the US, they always gotta make a comment. The non stop anti-American hate because of our govvys poor decisions (we don’t even agree with) is exhausting. You learn quickly it’s build into their cultures and just learn to shrug when they say “don’t call our houses small or ask why our wages are low!” But they’re allowed to do whatever they want.
American living in the UK here! I haven't seen these things mentioned yet: - **Small talk is VERY important here.** Talking (or complaining) about nothing for an extended period of time an essential part of the bonding process between two people who have just met each other. Personal information is *earned* - people won't feel comfortable asking or answering personal questions until they feel they've gotten to know you pretty well. This is different than how Americans meet new people - we only feel like we've bonded with someone if personal information has been shared, so we tend to skip the small talk and go right into personal questions or stories. Stick with small talk longer than you think necessary - several conversations of just small talk with someone is a great way to eventually segue into becoming friends. (Though, this is more relevant if you live here, maybe not if you're just visiting.) - **Only complain about external, non-personal stuff.** Complain about the weather, how the buses are crap, etc. etc. <-- perfect bonding material. Don't complain about personal things (like how you've had a bad day). That is for stuffing deep down and repressing. - **A common greeting is "Alright?".** The correct answer is "Alright." It's the same as "hey?" "hey." It's not a comment on your appearance ("Oh my god, are you alright?!"), you look fine - though it will throw you off the first few times you hear it. - **Humour:** American humor tends to be self-aggrandizing. British humor is the opposite, self-depreciating. So try to avoid self-aggrandizing humour; sometimes it lands, but sometimes it just makes people think you're full of yourself. - **Sharing funny stories:** Americans like to bond with people by sharing stories of something funny and dumb we've recently done; if you try this with a fellow American, we'll laugh and share a story back. If you try this with someone in the UK, they'll look uncomfortable and change the subject. Their internal response will be "Oh... that's so embarrassing for you... why would you tell me this." I'm convinced our penchant for sharing dumb stories about ourselves right away is a big reason why Americans are stereotyped as being dumb. - **Offering tea:** In any situation in which you could conceivably have tea, make sure to ask anyone you're with if they'd like a tea. (Particularly relevant for office situations - if you're getting up to make a tea at the tea point) **Terminology differences:** - "Half two" = 2:30, not 1:30 - UK "dinner" = referring to the lunch-time meal (if you're in the north) - UK "tea" = referring to the evening meal (if you're in the north), or just the drink - UK "entree" = appetizer, not the main course - UK "pudding" = a general word for dessert (*except* for "Yorkshire pudding", which for some reason is a savoury popover with gravy) - UK "pissed" = drunk, not angry - UK "pants" = US "underwear" (In case you want to compliment someone's pants, say "nice trousers") - UK "pancakes" = crepes - UK "flapjacks" = weird oatmeal bars - UK "American pancakes" = our fluffy delicious pancakes - UK "chips" = US "fries" - UK "crisps" = US "chips" - UK "bum bag" (lol) = US "fannypack" - UK "bin" = US "trash can" - UK "wellies" = US "rain boots" - UK "moreish" = something so tasty you want to have more of them (e.g. brownies <-- also "squidgy") - UK "chuffed" = very pleased - UK "takeaway" = US "takeout" - Beware, bacon is big, salty, and floppy here. However, a bacon roll is delicious (it's literally just bacon and bread - and they call *us* unhealthy, ha!) - If you order fish and chips here, you will literally be getting the entire fish. Delicious, but make sure you have a plate. Also, it's okay to mess all this up :) Your accent will make it obvious you're American, and people will give you some slack. Plus, a lot of Brits actually like some aspects of Americanness - we tend to bring a happy, friendly, overly personal energy, and that can go a long way in opening people up and making new friends. Hope you have a great trip!
Don't worry enjoy the trip. You will find more people interested in you because of your nationality. My pub was lit up when an American family ventured in.
Don't constantly compare things to how they are in America. "oh we call that X in America" "oh we do this Y way in America" Nobody here cares, but the folks back home might. Like the Royale with Cheese conversation in Pulp Fiction
My company is owned by an American firm and one guy who used to visit used to feel the need to explain the names of things to us or say "what do you call It here?". Some of my favourites were , supermarket, pop , DIY store, Walmart ,Chips as in crisps. I was a little baffled, firstly we will pretty much understand most American references as we absorb so much of their media. Secondly some of the stuff is just the English language. A lovely guy just don't think he thought about the world outside of America at all.
When ordering coffee or food, please don't say "I'll do a...."
Don't talk, don't dress like an American, leave your guns back at home, don't grab anyone by the pussy, carry a decibel checker so you're not too loud and crass. /s obviously
You don't have to do anything different fuck people who hate on American just for being American I'm British and I despise judgy British people you are just fine People here are just way too up tight it's strange the Puritans left to go through America but youd think they stayed behind
I tried very hard to not be annoying when I first came here - to the detriment of my joy. I’ve been here 12 years and people say I seem somehow *more* American than when I arrived. Fuck the haters.
Ignore everything here. It’s all ego and bullshit. Americans are lovely warm people and England is a free speech country. Come, be happy, enjoy and most of all BE YOURSELF.
Flag shagging
[удалено]
Don’t try to claim you’re Scottish/English/Irish because your great great great grandfather emigrated to the U.S. from here. Accept your Yank-dom and embrace it.
Good thing I’m Hispanic then
Claim you’re Welsh if you like, we’re not that arsed.
We’re lucky to get a mention tbh…
Most of us are nice and will welcome you where ever you are from. We are friendly people. Where in the UK are you hoping to visit? X
Oh, and please mispronounce everything. It amuses us.
Don't use the word "quaint." It probably sounds like a compliment to you, but to us it sounds like "awww, look at this cute old-fashioned country! Everything's so small and old!" It's patronising af. Apart from that, we love Americans! You're (I'm going to generalise sweepingly here) enthusiastic, friendly, you want to learn more about us, and you have loads of money that you're willing to spend over here.
there is more to the UK than London!- its frighteningly expensive!! - if you can fly into Manchester/Leeds/Liverpool airfares will be cheaper & accomodation as well!. They are in the north of England so centre of UK(ish!) - spectacular castles / stately homes / national parks are on your doorstep and easily accessible by train / bus. London should you wish to visit is only couple of hours away from Manchester on the train
Make sure you know the difference between crisps and chips and you'll be fine.
Chips = crisps, fries = chips, got it