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Episode 66 – UK versus US (Part 2) Exploring Cultural Differences from an American Perspective

In episode 66 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, we continue our exploration of the differences between the United Kingdom and the United States. 

Our guest, Kathryn Johnson, recently travelled to the UK and makes some fascinating observations as an American visitor. 

In this episode, we delve into Kathryn’s notes to discuss everything from tipping in restaurants, the ins and outs of navigating UK intersections to the unique experience of enjoying a cup of tea in England. Kathryn advises on the need to slow down, soak in the details around you, and yes, remember to look right before crossing the street!

Join us as we navigate the quirks of UK culture, understand menus, and hear her tips for making the most of your trip. So saddle up, sip your tea (or coffee), and let’s embark on this enlightening journey together!

Click the blue button below to listen:

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Episode 66 – Show Notes

UK versus US (Part 2) with Kathryn Johnson

Topics covered in this episode include:

  • Kathryn’s experiences as a preparation for other travellers.
  • Tipping and service charges in UK restaurants and bars.
  • Bathroom stalls and privacy in the UK versus USA.
  • Traffic and navigation mistakes in the UK.
  • Lack of ice in drinks (and bottomless drinks are not common)
  • Checking the bottles when you buy water so as not to purchase sparkling accidentally.
  • Limited options for full restaurant meals later in the evening.
  • Bag requirements when grocery shopping.
  • Differences between American and English iced tea.
  • Confusion between terminology – ground floor and first floor.
  • The use of the 24 hour clock for times.
  • Dates are written with the day first, not the month.
  • And much more….

Click here to download a PDF Transcript of Episode 66

Useful resources

ARTICLES

PODCASTS

  • Episode #715 Things to know before you visit England
  • Episode #4 Tips for first time visitors to London
  • Episode #67 – Visiting London: 15 things to know before you visit
  • Episode #47Practical tips for Visiting the UK – Your top 10 FAQs answered

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🗓 UK TRAVEL RESOURCES 🇬🇧

☂️ Best for group tours – Get Your Guide or Viator

⭐️ Best for private tours – Check out our preferred partners!

🔑 Best for hotels – Booking.com & VRBO

🥟 Best for food tours – Devour

🚗 Best for hire cars – Discover Cars

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🚂 Best for travelling by train – UK Train Travel Guide Ebook

🚊 Best for train tickets – The Train Line or National Rail Enquiries

📋 Best for planning your itinerary – 5-step itinerary planning challenge

⛔️ Best VPN (Virtual Private Network) – Surfshark

🛂 Best for visas – iVisa

💷 Best for currency – Wise

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