Culture shocks: England Edition

Whether you’re looking to move to England or are just visiting for a few days, navigating the English culture can be a bit of a shock. Let’s just say that they do things a bit differently than in the US.

But fear not, intrepid traveler! I spent two glorious months living in England myself, mostly in the charming West, and I’m here to share the seven things that had my jaw on the floor (in a good way, of course). Thankfully I had a few local friends who helped me navigate the cultural differences.

So before you hop on that airplane, give this blog a read so you can be better prepared for what you might encounter.

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7 of my culture shocks while in England

1. Roundabouts everywhere!

Forget stop signs and traffic lights, England is obsessed with roundabouts. They’re everywhere, from tiny village crossroads to motorway monstrosities. It can be a bit intimidating at first, but trust me, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be zipping around like a pro (just remember, yield to traffic already on the roundabout!).

2. The different lingos for basically everything

Brace yourself for a whole new vocabulary. “Pants” are underwear, “trousers” are pants, a “lift” is an elevator, and a “chemist” is a pharmacy. And don’t even get me started on all the regional accents – sometimes it felt like I was deciphering riddles! But hey, that’s all part of the charm, right?

*More on this on my next blog!*

3. Pubs are for everyone: Forget dingy dives

English pubs are the heart and soul of the community. They’re family-friendly (think roaring fires and board games), serve up delicious food (bangers and mash, anyone?), and are the perfect place to raise a pint (or two) with your mates. Just don’t ask for a Bud Light – you’ll get some serious side-eye.

4. When in Wales, signs are both in English and in Welsh

If you’re exploring the west side of England, head to Wales, and you’ll be greeted by bilingual street signs and friendly locals who proudly speak both English and Welsh. It’s a beautiful reminder of the rich tapestry of cultures that make up the UK. Croeso i Gymru!

5. Seeing sheep 🐑 everywhere 😍

Let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good sheep sighting? In England, they’re not just farm animals, they’re practically national mascots. You’ll see them grazing on rolling hills, frolicking in fields, and even causing the occasional traffic jam (bless their woolly hearts).

6. They don’t say the time straight up

Forget “five o’clock,” in England, it’s all about “half past five” or “quarter to six.” It’s like they have their own time warp going on, but hey, who am I to argue with centuries of tradition? Just be prepared to do some mental math if you want to know when that train actually leaves.

7. Tea time is sacred

Forget coffee breaks, England runs on tea. Whether it’s a proper afternoon tea with scones and clotted cream, or a quick cuppa with biscuits, you’ll be offered tea often. Embrace the ritual, it’s a chance to slow down and savor the moment.

Bonus tip: Embrace the humor! Brits love sarcasm and dry wit. Don’t take things too literally, and be ready to laugh at yourself sometimes. After all, a good sense of humor goes a long way in any culture.

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So there you have it, seven culture shocks that will have you saying “Blimey!” in no time. But hey, that’s all part of the adventure, right? Embrace the differences, ask questions, laugh at the awkward moments, and soak up the charm of this quirky, wonderful country.

Just remember, when in doubt, order a pint, find a pub, and ask a local – they’ll be happy to point you in the right direction (and maybe teach you a few new words along the way). Happy travels!