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

By: Author Tracy Collins

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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!

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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 #7 – 15 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 #47 – Practical tips for Visiting the UK – Your top 10 FAQs answered
Americans need to definitely pay attention to the directions painted on the edge of the sidewalks reminding them which way to look especially when there is no stoplight
Americans need to definitely pay attention to the directions painted on the edge of the sidewalks, reminding them which way to look – especially when there is no stoplight!
In most cafes and coffee shops these are your two options for cream for your coffee. We were also pretty fascinated by the condiment offerings.
In most cafés and coffee shops, these are your two options for cream for your coffee. We were also pretty fascinated by the condiment offerings.
LOVED this coffee. Rosslyn is a smaller chain but if you see one be sure to stop.
LOVED this coffee. Rosslyn is a smaller chain, but if you see one, be sure to stop.
The UK does not use the word pickle for what Americans know to be a pickle. I bit into the sandwich expecting one thing and it was very surprised to taste another But I enjoyed it
The UK does not use the word pickle for what Americans know to be a pickle. I bit into a pickle sandwich, expecting one thing, and it was very surprised to taste another! But I enjoyed it!
There were reminders in almost all the tube stations and on almost every tube and bus that we rode reminding people about disabilities I really loved that.
There were reminders in almost all the tube stations and on almost every tube and bus that we rode reminding people about disabilities – I really loved that.
I love how these bathroom doors offer complete privacy. Kings Cross station had incredibly clean bathrooms and theyve even been awarded for it
I love how these bathroom doors offer complete privacy. Kings Cross station had incredibly clean bathrooms and they’ve even been awarded for it!
This was the very first time she was able to taste a macaron and she was so
This was the very first time she was able to taste a macaron, and she was so excited!
WC water closet which is the bathroom
WC = water closet, which is the bathroom!
Always look for blue signs on buildings. They indicate something historic about the building
Always look for blue signs on buildings. They indicate something historic about the building!
Because of Madelines tree nut allergy she got her very own tea service when we went to tea
Because of Madeline’s tree nut allergy, she got her very own tea service when we went to tea!
Cheese and pickle but not what I
Cheese and pickle but not what I expected!
FCB coffee was one of my top favorites for an Americano and this one was in Paddington Station.
FCB coffee was one of my top favorites for an Americano and this one was in Paddington Station.
Food allergies are taken so seriously in the UK that even the Mr. Whippy ice cream truck mentioned them
Food allergies are taken so seriously in the UK that even the Mr. Whippy ice cream truck mentioned them!
this is just another example of how the street signs are marked by signage on a wall or building.
Another example of how the street signs are marked by signage on a wall or building.
The only outlet in the bathroom is one that is specific for an electric razor
The only outlet in the bathroom is one that is specific for an electric razor. We just got used to drying our hair in the bedroom since we could not plug it in anywhere in the bathroom.
The street names are posted on corner buildings or walls. They typically are not freestanding signs
The street names are posted on corner buildings or walls. They typically are not freestanding signs. Americans should know to pay attention to what is written on the corner of buildings to get their bearings.
When an accommodation states they have a washing machine and dryer the two are almost always combined
When an accommodation states they have a washing machine and dryer, the two are almost always combined. We found them to be quite small and the wash cycle would take almost 2 hours. You can remove your clothing to hang it up to dry or you can set the was

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