Hi again! I just finished up my first month in London, so I thought it would be worth it to highlight the deep culture within this city. Ever since the first day I landed at London Heathrow Airport, I experienced my first culture shock. I was aware that the cars drive on the left side of the road, but additionally, the people walk on the left side of the sidewalk. This shocked me because I had never thought about it before. However, in my class, my teacher told us that the reason they walk on the left is that, during Roman times, swords were strapped on the left side of the body. To avoid people running into each other’s swords, the London Bridge formally made the walking direction to keep to the left. 

Another interesting part of London’s deep culture that I have recognized is the concept of the British queue. It is deeply ingrained and expected to ensure that everyone waits their turn politely and fairly; this is very respected in the United Kingdom. There is a sort of silent bond that I have noticed while being in a queue; no one converses with each other, but we are all waiting for the same thing. It is a silly thing to say, but I find it exciting to be in a queue because it gives me a sense of hope in the community! While being in a queue is nice, I also find myself struggling at times. Depending on where you are or the time of day, talking while standing in a queue will make you automatically receive many death stares. Along with the queue, sometimes when I am riding on the tube and making conversation, more stares are made. I think that this is partly where the stereotype that Americans are loud comes from. I am such a talker when I am with people I know in settings where the British are not. They are able to flag my accent instantly and become annoyed with me on the spot. 

People may seem very intimidating, but almost everyone I have talked to has been very lovely. Whether I am asking a local a question on directions, restaurant recommendations, or just a simple conversation, everyone has always been engaged. I did not anticipate this because the death stares made me timid to approach anyone, but after the first few random interactions I had, I felt much more accommodated and comfortable. The first week and a half, I felt like a stupid tourist who did not know anything (because I practically was), but now, after being here for just over a month, I feel completely different. I am sort of dreading heading back to the States because I am so accustomed to the deep cultures here, and I am not sure how I will adjust back into American culture. I unfortunately only have one more week left, and then I head home. I’ll check back and update soon!

Cheers,

Rebecca Young