Culture is a broad term, one that can mean so many different things in regards to London. An aspect I find most intriguing is the social and physical comfortability. Typical Londoners like to joke about not being able to express emotions, but I find just the opposite here. Everyone hugs one another, men are not afraid to belt out a tune in the streets, and words of love are spoken often. In a city where many people are coming and going (it is a Global City after all), fast friendships are a necessary skill. I find that it is a more mature (in most cases) personality here, and I have to wonder if this is the culture borne of travel or personhood. It is something I want to bring back with me to the states – this mindset of hugging your friends more tightly and more often, and being quick to invite one another out for a meal and time together.

I’ve also noticed that socially, people usually show up later. I attend a church students group here and typically if a start time is set for 6pm, people will show up around 8pm. But practically, for work, there isn’t as much leeway. It resembles America in the way it models being on time and getting right to work. 

My interactions with locals has really changed my outlook on travel and friendship. People are willing to invite youtube things, get to know you and have fun even if I’m only here for 6 weeks. Many students in University that I’ve met here are baffled that I’m staying for such a short time, and it definitely has made me want to stay longer to invest in deeper relationships. We take “vacation” so seriously in the US, and here it’s practically breathing to take a holiday leisurely – not frantically trying to visit every country. It has inspired me not only to come back and visit my new friends, but also to take more breaks to see the world like they do. 

I think the most efficient way to navigate cross-cultural situations is to listen, and prioritize asking questions. Sharing cultures is one of the most fun things I’ve experienced – like explaining what frats and sororities are to my two local friends. I informed them that yes, it’s almost exactly like every American film you’ve seen. 

I think the most challenging thing to assimilate to is not the fact that I am American and some of my friends are British – it’s simply that they’ve known each other longer than I’ve been here. Fast friendships might be something that people here are good at, but I need some practice. Getting acquainted with someone in 5 weeks when you only see each other maybe 1-2 times a week is a challenge I have tried to take on. I’ve met some amazing people, and want to come back almost solely because of them. And, of course, trying to convince anyone to come to the US (it’s not going the greatest).

Overall, I love the people I’ve met here and am changed for the better – although my bank account might not agree.