American in the UK: 15 British Culture Shocks

[@TravelingwithKristin]

What are some things about British culture that I forgot to mention? Click here for my first impressions as an American in the UK! kzbin.info/www/bejne/p5K9nqJ5hbF2qZo

[@lineage13]

Did you have allergies anywhere else in Europe or just the UK? Its very sus because these plants are all over Europe...

[@neilbuckley1613]

Go to your GP and arrange for yout allergy to be checked, may well be tree pollen instead of Rapeseed.

[@JG-fv9bv]

Try and find locally produced natural honey , as this can nelp with allergies when consumed on a regular basis

[@paulmarvik]

You forgot to mention the drinking culture (I apologize in advance to my British friends) and the fist fights on the streets 🙂

[@Rossboe1]

Great video, i like to hear how friendly people are in England I( I am originally from there), i think people in Australia are becoming less friendly over time. I always say hello to strangers if Im walking past. It makes for a much nicer environment. By the way 0C is waters freezing point and 100C is waters boiling point. Have a good one.

[@janetrussell5753]

The casual "sorry" in the UK is not an apology - it's an acknowledgment of the other person - a social lubricant to ease the minor irritants that inevitably arise (or could arise) when people interact at close quarters. Like queuing, a genuinely civilising and civilised custom.

[@Stereophonicsobsessed]

True 🎉

[@jaynepaige5702]

Such a great description. I may have to steal your words at some point xx

[@elllllllle939]

British people say sorry all the time. I love it 😅

[@jimmyh6601]

​@@elllllllle939sorry😊

[@elizabethhamon2706]

I spent five weeks in England last year and I’m heading over in the fall for 5 months in the countryside and cannot wait! What you said about walking and hiking and biking alone and not being worried about animals or people hurting you was some thing I felt very emphatically. It was very unusual to be able to hike alone and relax. Also, people were extremely friendly, just as you said, and always happy to strike up a conversation. I love everything about the UK and can’t wait to get back!

[@matchmade44]

As a Brit on my first flight to the US 30 years ago, I remember being amazed when the American woman next to me said she'd just finished a twp week walking holiday in England. She loved the luxury of being able to walk for free in the open countryside, on paths and bridleways that are usually centuries old and older, and are protected by law with farmers required to plough and harvest around them. The US, to my knowledge, has no equivalent of the UK's Ordnance Survey maps that cover the whole country and can be bought or borrowed in any bookshop or public library. There is however a definite hiking culture, even outside the National Parks, which incidentally are - or were - really well run and a credit to the US, at least from a tourist's perspective.

[@Crusty_Camper]

You will be very welcome back here. When I was hiking the West Highland Way a few years ago I was passed by a tall, bronzed couple wearing matching green sportswear including green eye shades. They were so obviously American (Californian?). I said good morning and they physically recoiled, stared at me in horror and quickly marched off without saying a word, but talking to each other, so I know they weren't deaf. I hope they started to unwind before their stay here ended. If you haven't yet been, come and visit the Lake District in Northern England. It's fantastic for walking, cycling and enjoying Lakes and mountains. You can see Scotland from here too... Tempting, isn't it? But be ready for any weather. We are the same latitude as Hudson's Bay and the hill tops are sub-arctic in climate, even though they are mostly below 3000 feet. Enjoy!!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

That's wonderful to hear, Elizabeth! It's fantastic that your previous experience in England resonated with you so strongly. I'm thrilled for you that you'll be returning in the fall for an extended stay. Wishing you another incredible journey filled with memorable experiences in the UK countryside!

[@juttagrimmer2058]

It will be autumn….not fall 😂

[@Crusty_Camper]

@@juttagrimmer2058 Fall is an old English term for autumn, particularly in Sussex.

[@phillipwatson9906]

As a northerner I'm glad your enjoying your time in the UK, in the north we pride ourselves on our friendliness 😊🇬🇧

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks Philip!

[@roderickjoyce6716]

As a southerner who has lived in the north for a very long time, I agree. (PS it's catching!)

[@stephenp5836]

The north is the best! The people are so friendly.

[@zippybanana2691]

That old chesnut .... it varies ...

[@timhannah4]

North & South, we're all Friendly! Pack in this ridiculous divide........British people from wherever are welcoming 🤘

[@alanward9521]

Such a refreshing change to hear someone from the US understand there's so much more to see out of London. Also good to hear your thoughts of people in the North. Enjoy our country, it may be small but we have a lot to offer. Take care and all the best with your travels.

[@lyndoncmp5751]

Even in the south there is so much more than London. North and South Downs, Guildford, Canterbury, Brighton, Isle of Wight, Winchester, Chichester, Hastings, Thames west of Windsor etc etc.

[@BrainstormVincent]

Having spent two years in America the best distinction between UK & US culture remains 'In America things are always seen as serious but not hopeless, in Britain things are always seen as hopeless but not serious.'

[@juliettewhittaker8904]

Haha, so true

[@lacha608]

I think a lot of Americans are feeling hopeless these days...

[@annettewalter2273]

Well put.

[@margaretstanton7567]

Ha, ha, so interesting! What do Brits see as hopeless but not serious right now?? Most everything??

[@LittleNoiseBoy]

That's actually brilliant - made me chuckle @BeingBuddish - thanks (and may all beings be happy :-) . In a similar vein: A Brit thinks 100 miles is a long way. An American thinks 100 years is a long time...

[@philonutube100]

I'm so glad you feel safe in our country, I feel really proud of that..

[@lesleynicholls5677]

Try Skelmersdale! It's well cheaper than USA!

[@ThisAlexia]

I concur that northerners are friendly. True story: I once visited Sheffield with a friend of mine and we decided to go out to a bar. When we got to the bus station I realized my cash was lost! A guy our age waiting with us PAID for our tickets, showed us a nice bar, went dancing with us, introduced us to his lovely friends, had his DJ friend make an announcement on the microphone saying “welcome Alexia and Sara from America!” and literally gave me the shirt off his back and said “now you can go home and say a sweaty Englishman gave this to you” 😂😂😂 (sure he was a bit drunk). But he was a very respectful and made sure we got home safe! I will never forget that fun, amazing night!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

What a great story!! I would definitely believe it. Sounds like a fun night!

[@TheJthom9]

Because you're an attractive girl. Same story wherever you'd go

[@ThisAlexia]

@@TheJthom9 what would that have to do with the women being nice to me

[@clsisman]

I used to live in Sheffield when I was a student and this is bang on brand. I remember the first time my card got declined because I didn't have enough money and not only did the person behind me PAY for my food shop, another person in the queue caught up with me in the car park hefting a huge bag (15 kg) of rice and some lentils and told me they were worried I might not be able to afford enough to eat and said now I would have SOMETHING, even if it wasn't a balanced meal. I am from the south of England, where strangers won't speak to you, basically ever. It was a huge culture shock in the best way.

[@desolate1959]

As a Sheffield born and bred,we pride ourselves on being friendly.

[@stevebills5716]

Wow - I just spent 2 weeks hosting a friend from the US. One BIG difference we noticed was that she as an American would have no issue complaining about food in a restaurant and sending it back while for me as a Brit that would be absolutely unthinkable. Really surprised to hear you noting the opposite. 🙂

[@sidweazel2883]

That surprised me too, we Brits are notoriously bad at complaining

[@strangelee4400]

@@sidweazel2883 My soup was disgusting. Also they chopped my leg off! I shall write a strongly worded letter to the editor of the Times if it happens again!

[@Space-nutz]

As a American- my friends and I were talking about that at dinner the other night. I’ve always kept quiet, but as I get older I don’t care as much. I realized most waiters could careless and if the food is honestly wrong, then I have no problem asking for it made right.

[@elemar5]

Could or couldn't care less? It makes a big difference.@@Space-nutz

[@gordonsmith8899]

Not complaining about food is something that was drilled into me and my sisters as children in the years after the end of WW2 - to complain was very bad manners, but to waste, (ie not eat or throw away) was a mortal sin.

[@w4yne_1]

you forgot to mention when shopping in any store. the price you see. is the price you pay. tax included. i love that about my country.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Yes! I should do a whole video about that

[@siarlb8115]

In fairness that’s in most countries other than the US

[@YogZab]

We don't include the tax in our Ontario prices. (Not sure about the rest of Canada.) I prefer our way, I otherwise feel like there's a 'secret number' included, being stashed to avoid my notice! I prefer knowing what the tax amount is separately.

[@anna.b2401]

​@@YogZabI like having the tax included in the ticket price cuz know what the tax is because it's standardised across the whole country and its also on the receipt anyway so you can see it separately it just means if you pay cash you can get the exact amount out before you get to the till 🤣

[@Leitros-kj4qb]

​@annabotham2401 VAT is the same throughout the UK. In the US sales tax varies from State to State and even from city to city in same State. Also VAT stays the same from year to year. Sales tax is constantly changing to get some advantage over adjoining States and other cities.

[@AngloSupreme]

If we tease and banter with someone it means we like them... it's just in our nature.

[@imgoingtocountdownfromthir4580]

As a born and bred Mancunian, I'm still amazed while walking along the Bridgewater canal, especially from Stretford to Sale, you wouldn't think you're in the middle of one of the biggest cities in Britain, but in the middle of the countryside.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

That sounds absolutely lovely! It's wonderful to have those hidden gems within a bustling city like Manchester. It's moments like these that remind us of the diverse and surprising experiences a city can offer. 😊

[@zollykod2541]

Please have a sticker for being one of the VERY few who knows the difference between 'your' and 'you're'... :D

[@johnhuddleston6508]

​@@zollykod2541just like 'of' and 'have'.

[@zollykod2541]

Indeed!

[@summits100]

It's clear you are enjoying the region you are living in there and it sounds like a good fit for you. My husband is British and as such, I have been all over the UK and we have moved around much of the western portion of the US. In either country, culture varies between towns, cities and regions/states. And pretty much everywhere has a mixture of the good and bad.

[@alkeeling614]

Have just moved back to the UK with my family after living in the USA for 15 years. Some things to note; (1) Unlike the US, public footpaths allow passage though private farmland all over the UK. Just follow the signs or maps, stick to the path and basically respect it is someone else’s land. Once in the countryside you will see signs everywhere. (2) The National Cycle Network (NCN) has grown exponentially in the past 20 years. They make use of quieter roads and the many ‘rail to trail’ conversions for you to tour the country safely. (3) All cars >3 years old have a comprehensive inspection every year called an MoT (Ministry of Transport). It’s very detailed and entails dozens of checks to ensure all vehicles are roadworthy. Many Brits will glance at cars when visiting the US and comment, ‘That’ll never pass an MoT’. 😀.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Welcome back to the UK, @alkeeling614! Thank you for sharing these valuable insights. It's interesting to hear the comparisons with the US. Wishing you and your family a wonderful time reconnecting with the UK. 😊🙌

[@MrSinclairn]

LOL ! Your last line is so true !😅

[@geoffbentley8774]

Taxis in Chesterfield, Derbyshire have to have a MOT every 6 months.Even a brand new taxi had to be tested before it gets licensed.

[@neilhaughey6869]

Some of the wrecks I have seen driving along the IS, wish I had photos of them. Impossible to drive a car like that here and not get stopped by the Police.

[@rwentfordable]

It's the same all over of the UK. ​@@geoffbentley8774

[@lilymaebambi]

Brit here, I never thought about couples shopping being different but you’re so right! We plan a couple/family shopping trip and make a proper trip out of it, planning meals and helping each other find the best ingredients at the best prices. I never go shopping without my partner it doesn’t feel right! 💗

[@Stereophonicsobsessed]

Very true 🎉

[@AndreiTupolev]

I've never understood where that American stereotype about "British food 😂" comes from. It seems to be a hangover from the war when food was rationed and made with powdered eggs and pies and things were made to government specification.

[@robertadavies4236]

You have to remember that Americans don't travel much. For many, the last time anyone in their family went overseas was as a soldier in the Second World War, when of course the food was extremely basic and in short supply. For some reason this wartime experience got embedded into American perception as a permanent stereotype.

[@DanDownunda8888]

It's also a stereotype that we Australians have about British food. When I grew up in the 50's and 60's all our food was based on British recipes which was bland and uninteresting. Then the government started letting people from everywhere into the country. For the last 40 years or so I've eaten at restaurants that are Nepalese, Thai, Indonesian, Chinse, Korean, Japanese, Vietnamese, Russian, German, Hungarian, French, Italian and Lebanese. There aren't many Indian restaurants, at least in Melbourne, but the ones I have been to are quite expensive.

[@boomshanka8743]

The British food stereotype is about the food being underseasoned for modern American tastes. I don't mean just a lack of spices, it seems like many cooks here don't understand basic stuff like how to salt vegetables while cooking them, or how to properly sear a steak. The brits have great raw materials (things like dairy and soft fruit are some of the best in the world), it is the standard of cooking that lets it down.

[@Thurgosh_OG]

Scones originated in Scotland, and the 'Scotch pancake' is one of its many forms. So by Kristin's reckoning, American Pancakes are from Scotland, as she seems to think that Scotch Pancakes are 'American Style', when in fact US American pancakes are actually Scottish Style.

[@chrisholland7367]

Scones are traditional staple here in the southwest of England Cornwall.

[@isabellahodge4162]

@@chrisholland7367 There are scones, drop scones and Scottish pancakes. Scones are rolled out and cut into shape with a cutter, the other two are made with batter and a hot skillet.

[@jonevansauthor]

I checked and Scotch pancakes are absolutely not the same product as American pancakes. That's why you can buy them pre-made without it being awful.

[@Mulberry2000]

My gran used to make scones she was Cumbria lol

[@jonjstorey]

When you said "American Style pancakes", you showed pictures of "Scotch pancakes". Maybe you're not aware of the language used in the UK, but the word Scotch is interchangeable with the word Scottish. Therefore the pancakes shown were Scottish pancakes. I'm originally from Manchester and now live in Perth, Australia and I miss the food. Particularly the meat that is free from hormones and preservatives and the ripe fruit and vegetables.

[@michellemaine2719]

I love how the UK prioritizes walking, and builds it into its infrastructure. The lack of civility by staff at Newark Airport while visiting the states recently was eyewatering after living with British politeness. And NJ drivers, OMG, they are so horrible! I can't say I like the fake sugar trend here. I stick to water, tea and coffee mostly. I have personally found that there is a lot more litter in England than I have seen in mainland Europe countries. Some places are downright disgusting, and I get the impression some people expect others to pick up after them, especially at places like festivals and beaches. That is one thing that I am not a fan of, especially for a country that supposedly embraces environmentalism.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

I hear you, Michelle! I’m also shocked about the trash. I wonder why that’s such a problem…

[@BrandonLeeBrown]

I have encountered some not so polite Brits working at London Heathrow Airport. When I was at the Eurostar train station in Ashford Kent though, an employee on her way home or lunch, stopped and said she saw me struggling with the coins at a public phone and asked if I would like to use her mobile phone. After I used her phone, she walked out to somebody meeting her in a convertible (cabriolet) Aston Martin.

[@sirrathersplendid4825]

@@TravelingwithKristin- Didn’t use to be much trash just 20 years ago. It’s a recent trend, sadly, that has accompanied mass migration.

[@Greenwood4727]

yes its more modern problem, in the 80's and 90's we all picked up after ourselves, plus we used to have a lot of road cleaners etc

[@yabas3254]

We are also appalled by this littering, also every motorway sliproad is a huge litter area.

[@yvonnebirch6026]

I lived in the UK for a year long long ago as a mother’s helper. I love it. Just love the countryside and the historical villages. Very friendly people. Great pubs ! ❤️❤️❤️

[@TravelingwithKristin]

That sounds like a wonderful experience! It's great to hear that you enjoyed your time there. Thank you for sharing your love for the UK! ❤️

[@Greenwood4727]

you cant go anywhere without falling over history ;)

[@CroisMoi]

I am so happy you are enjoying the UK. I’m American and I’ve always loved Britain. It is calmer and safer than the US. I am entertained by just about anything there. I used to just take long walks and discover so many interesting things. Don’t forget Eggos. We have frozen pancakes too. Did you try the crumpets? I’m looking forward to many more videos from the UK.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Oh yes. I tried crumpets 😂 See here for more: kzbin.info/www/bejne/p5K9nqJ5hbF2qZo

[@CroisMoi]

@@TravelingwithKristin Ha. I forgot that part. They do sell those at Trader Joe's now. A friend in England will make them for me from scratch when I come over. I will crack the code and report back after I have them.

[@lilzisokatgeography]

Some people think that us brits are just rude or ignorant, but im so glad that people dont judge a book by its cover and actually visit before saying things ❤️

[@marksykes1191]

We don’t put fructose corn syrup in every single product , I’ve been to the states a few times & couldn’t believe how sweet the bread was or even your butter , we just ate English muffins all the time because the bread was so sweet !

[@MR-pr8tp]

American products are filled with fructose for sure and any wonder that we are an obese country with extreme insurance costs and 11% of our population are diabetic. American products are also filled with other chemicals/preservatives that are unhealthy but yet approved by our government agencies: anything for a buck.

[@alexhamilton3522]

Agreed on that. Then again, if you've lived here for 20+ years and have to have a strict diet, you know what to avoid. Unfortunately, to eat as organically as possible, without growing your own food, you have to pay extra. Bloody bastards.

[@marksykes1191]

@@alexhamilton3522 Hmmm those rich billionaires you got over there have got an angle on every aspect of “ free” Americans lives ! In the UK wealthy land owners used to tax families if a male worker died because it was depriving them of a worker ! Called “ the death tax “ !

[@simonkirk3067]

The food is better here because we dont use alot of additives and ingredients that arent necessary. Example...Macdonalds fries here are potatos and oil, bit of salt. You check out how many ingredients fries have in the US...Think its about 14.

[@Celeste-.-marie]

The fries from McDonalds in the US literally never mold or go bad. That should tell ya what you need to know 😂

[@gantorisdurran710]

Very few people acknowledge or are even aware of how high our food and animal welfare standards are. Even most British people dont know that we are one of the best at this globally which is a shame because its something we can be proud of.

[@williebauld1007]

Birmingham is the second biggest city in the UK, also trust me, there is PLENTY of building going on, it seems like all the green spaces are disappearing and houses are going up on them

[@sugarynugs]

I think you find its Glasgow

[@glastonbury4304]

I'm going for Manchester as the second city, but not for size 😉💞

[@williebauld1007]

@@sugarynugs it’s not Glasgow, not just because I’m from Edinburgh but it’s a fact that Birmingham is second largest and the Weege 3rd

[@christopherisherwood4195]

Manchester dose have a larger population than Birmingham if you Google it

[@williebauld1007]

@@christopherisherwood4195 that’s if you look at the urban population, but by solely population of Manchester and Birmingham cities Birmingham is the second largest, Glasgow the third and I think Manchester is 6th

[@kreh1100]

I too am from Florida and I think Great Britain is the most beautiful place on the planet. They are so far ahead of us in so many ways particularly ecology I am sad to say. If I was you I would stay right where you are❤

[@passionatemozzy4652]

This is lovely to hear from an American ❤ i personally only travel around the North as that is where i am from. I have been to the south, mainly London it has changed a lot and it is incredibly rude due to how diverse it is now

[@JamesWilliam70]

It's just a shame that England is so backwards when it comes to camper van life, RV's as you Americans would say. There is little freedom/services on park ups, and it's not very well received by local councils in comparison to more forward-thinking travel freindly European countries such as France. Scotland isn't so bad, but even they are starting to monetise what was once free... That's what I always envy about the USA, large open lands and more free freedom to roam. I used to enjoy the peak district allot since I'm local, and it was very peaceful before 2020 - but since then you struggle to get a par king place. I feel this small Island is overpopulated as of late...

[@stevebrown1746]

The stoic british sense of justice and fairness is still very strong, despite being severely tested over the past few years (best not mention Brexit😂). Brits do love americans and hopefully vice versa but i do think your easy-going nature would bring out the best in anyone you met, wherever you travel👍

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks Steve 😊

[@DigitalNomadOnFIRE]

Will we still have this sense of justice when we're a majority Muslim country in 40 years? (all projections point to this, it's just maths). I guess the definition of justice will change.

[@Ionabrodie69]

Speak for yourself , I prefer our Australian brothers and sisters.. 🤷‍♀️

[@awakeningcry]

at least our PM got his comeuppance after Partygate! It also helps that if there's anything the "Conservative" press loves more than a Conservative government, it's the Royal Family. Remember those photos of the Queen as her husband's funeral after the PM had been breaking lockdown rules?

[@0w784g]

Best not mention Brexit, says the guy mentioning Brexit.

[@efnissien]

The lack of sugar in bread isn't due to the 'sugar tax', sugar is routinely added to US breads, it isn't in the UK.

[@SenorSol]

Not true unfortunately. A quick glance at the ingredients list on most commercial bread in the UK will clearly show added sugar. I'm a compulsive label-reader, I routinely check out all of the products I buy, with the intention of minimising or eliminating added sugar in my diet and bread is one of the regular offenders!

[@andrewbragg504]

​@@SenorSol but Americans put more sugar in so it tastes more like a cake than bread

[@SenorSol]

@@andrewbragg504 It's not really a competition about who puts more sugar in their bread, but the UK has the most 'Americanised' diet of any Western European country, the SAD or Standard American Diet, and consequently the UK has higher rates of diabetes, cancers, and all of the metabolic syndromes than any other EU country. Those are the facts. Bottom line is....eliminate refined sugars from your diet if you want to live a healthy and long life.

[@andrewbragg504]

@@SenorSol I'm sorry my friend but I never said it was a competition you've just made that up in your head

[@SenorSol]

@@andrewbragg504 I never said you said it was a competition, but when you write "Americans put more sugar" it suggests that the Brits don't, or put less, which simply isn't true. A reading of any commercial bread package ingredients list would show you that. As I said, the British have the highest rates of obesity of any Western European country, have you asked yourself why that is?

[@stevemellor7989]

So glad you're enjoying life in the UK. I truly miss the years I spent in Gloucestershire! Great memories! I raised 3 kids there, and even though they're all in the US now, they still look to the UK as home.

[@NZAnimeManga]

Gloucestershire is beautiful, glad you enjoyed your stay!

[@batteredwarrior]

My home county!

[@Tj-ot4jp]

Scotch pancakes were around long before the US was. “As far back as the 1760s, they are mentioned in English cookery books.

[@michaels640]

When we were in America it was almost impossible to find bread that wasn’t sweet. It was not nice.

[@Kim-427]

Did you take up baking your own? Lol

[@kristinsabillon]

Yes, this is a problem. Not to mention the ridiculous amount of additives. I make a loaf of sourdough daily. On the weekends, I make more variety, but I never buy store bought bread anymore. Our bakeries are spread out and overpriced here. They're rarely a viable option. We're taking a trip to Portugal, Spain, and France in September, and I am really looking forward to trying all the bakeries 😂

[@michaels640]

@@Kim-427 we were trying to make bacon sandwiches, and thought we’d discovered the ordinary bread, but no, it was sweet. Somehow we did a loaf, but the US had sugar in nearly everything… and cinnamon… We were in a motor caravan so couldn’t bake bread 🤣

[@TravelingwithKristin]

My mom and I always talk about this - all American bread has sugar. Except a few bakeries and sourdough types. Some organic brands but it’s so hard to find 🙁

[@sirrathersplendid4825]

American cheese also leaves a lot to be desired. Can’t imagine life without my extra mature cheddar!

[@Frazpas]

Sparkling water without sugar or sweeteners is easy. Just get mineral water, such as Evian, sparkling. There is a Sparkling water version in most brands.

[@scottman895]

I agree with you about the food. On both trips to the UK I have done, the food has been very impressive. Everything has been quite delicious. I have rented a car in both trips (except anytime I was in London as it's not a good idea to drive there), and it only took me an hour to get used to driving on the left. One thing I did notice is that many of the smaller secondary roads can be quite narrow. Roads may barely be wide enough for two-lane traffic, and some villages may have people parked on one side of the road where the road may only have 1 lane available in one area. If you get to a situation like that and someone is approaching, you usually have to wait until they pass and then proceed. It takes some getting used to!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks Scott; I’m planning to rent a car soon to travel around with my mom so I’ll let you know how it goes!

[@Pat14922]

Wait till you get to the countryside. Some roads are only one lane wide, and if you meet another car, you will have tor reverse

[@lesleyhawes6895]

Don't you think that some of these responses are a bit of "Life is always better on the other side of the fence?" I thought that food in the States, when I was there was really rather good, but a lot of the things she approves of, the British think of as new U.S. Imports, and are still a little wary of things like Air Conditioning, or even renting rather than buying houses and cars.

[@JimmyCeesAll]

My friends from around the world think we English are crazy driving at 60mph head to head on some of those roads and just sneaking past 😂

[@silgen]

It's a generalisation, but one thing I've noticed is that in the US you call police officers "Sir", in the UK they call you "Sir". Or "Madam", as the case might be...

[@StevenHughes-hr5hp]

Context? Are you being arrested at the time or is this about some other business?

[@aaronbennett7474]

@@StevenHughes-hr5hp when you get nicked (arrested)...the old bill will call you sir they are firm but fair...And we dont have too worry about being shot lol

[@frankmitchell3594]

A/C is definitely rare in houses. If a house has A/C it is usually a single room system, not a central system. Modern office blocks usually have some A/C, the larger ones will have a central system. Here, today, the temperature is 28C (82F) and the rh is 49% so no need for any cooling, it's a comfortable day.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

The weather was beautiful today!

[@matchmade44]

I have a/c in my house. It's called an openable window. It works 99% of the time, but much of last summer was tough. We Brits are used to our maritime climate with a regular breeze and sunny skies, gales, rain and snow on the same day sometimes. When I lived in the regular 100 degree Fahrenheit wet heat of Austin, Texas I couldn't believe it that outdoor clothes lines were actually illegal in my neighbourhood. I'd thought only the Swiss, Austrians and Germans had those kinds of byelaws

[@Evasion381]

The problem with the housing crisis isn't the lack of houses being built in the last 30 years, it's the lack of affordable houses been built everyone wants to build big detached or turn a seafront mill into luxury flats instead of building more terraces and such

[@TravelingwithKristin]

You raise an important point about the housing crisis, @Evasion381. Thank you for highlighting this aspect of the issue. 🙏

[@charlesjay8818]

Nobody wants to live in a tiny terrace house anymore like the working class in the victorian era.... it's 2024, people want nice big houses especially if they have a family. Problem with terrace houses is no privacy, you can hear your neighbours on BOTH sides, no off street parking, sometimes have to park away from the house, no garden or very small gardens/yards, very narrow and stairs are generally quite steep, tend to be on main roads also, etc etc The problem i agree is affordable housing of ANY type especially in London

[@Cotswolds1913]

It is the lack of housing being built, UK housing starts are significantly below other developed countries due to the planning law. Ireland has the same planning law system and they are in the same boat.

[@robaudi20v]

Lived in the south of the uk for 35 years. Now live in a tiny village on the coast of the north east. Great people great community. Something the south is severly lacking

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks for sharing your experiences, @robaudi20v!

[@johnnywarnerperfectroad66]

As a Brit I am pleased and flattered with what you say ... Especially as when I was over in the States a nice Southern lady asked me what was my favourite American food as she knew the food was so poor in the UK (I assumed she based this on a relation that had been here is WW2 when food was short....Though perhaps not who knows)

[@wobaguk]

The idea that american culture (in restaurants) is 'suck it up' while the UK is 'send it back', is the EXACT oposite of the stereotype. The cliche in the UK is, if its not right, you moan to your friends, but when the waiter asks if everything is OK, you say "Its fine!" to avoid awkwardness.

[@glastonbury4304]

Depends on your age and what part of the country you're in I've found...

[@glastonbury4304]

@JM11663 ...so true , never seen that happen, but have seen them fiddle about with meal sent back, but usually cafes and cheap restaurants

[@charlesunderwood6334]

USA- the customer is king. UK- the waiter is king. France- the chef is GOD

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Interesting! Although I will say that most of the people who I’ve seen do that are older, perhaps retired. They know what they like! And don’t care what people think 😊

[@arwelp]

That sounds about right. In 40 years of restaurant-going I’ve only ever once (it was a couple of months ago) said “actually, no” when asked if everything was OK. The steak seemed to have been taken out of the pan too long before it was served - when the manager came and asked what they could do I suggested “how about you knock a few quid off the bill?”, and they didn’t charge for the main course or stick the “optional” 10% tip on…. So I saved over £20 that day.

[@LincolnTank-StillOnTheSprue]

We don't use corn syrup in the uk so sweeteners are used widely. Plus the Govt have a drive to reduce obesity by reducing fat and sugar content in foods

[@third7715]

Manchester definitely need to employ you to work for their tourism board, so positive.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Good idea! Maybe I’ll reach out 😊

[@TSM-908]

With respect to food stuffs and the food life. Use your fridge and freezer and you will be stunned at how long fresh food lasts. Eggs, tomatoes lettuce in the fridge extends the shelf life. Other veggies can be frozen. In fact buying frozen veggies is cheaper and they taste just as good as fresh ones.

[@chrischarman8707]

Tomatoes should never be in the fridge! They’ll taste of nothing

[@patriciaburke6639]

Just picking a few points you raised: Regardless of what you have been told, Always Lock Your Doors! You will be even safer. ‘Despite feeling Safe while you are walking or cycling on our trails and pathways’. Remember, you are also: Alone and Vulnerable! Especially, if confronted by someone unexpectedly, who does not have the best intentions towards you or your property. It happens in the U.K. so, remain vigilant! Finally, food that’s not pumped full of preservatives and may ‘Go Off’ quicker than expected: Food Shops and Supermarkets rotate their stock to move older produce, with a reduced or imminent Shelf Life Date, to the front of their displays. It’s so easy to pick up, if you don’t always check ‘Use By/Sell By’ Dates. So, sometimes we are also at fault when it looks less appetising sooner than expected. Always check the Back of the Shelf Display for produce that may be dated to last longer and as such, are the better buy! It’s lovely that you have embraced the experience so far, of living here. Let’s hope you continue to enjoy it, with the possibly of you stopping here longer than you expected. Roll on Summer! 😎

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks for the tips, Patricia. I am still locking my doors and remaining vigilant. 😊 Also, I liked you look for the food on the back of the shelves, too. That’s why I don’t order groceries by delivery, because they always bring stuff that’s almost expired.

[@weedle30]

@@TravelingwithKristinuh ohhhh! I have to argue that comment about “delivered” food having a shorter date! I worked for 22 years (I only retired in March this year) for one of the Big Four supermarkets, and I can assure you that the staff that do the online shopping food “picking” have been trained to ONLY select the fresh and chilled foods that has the longest “use by” date from the chillers or the fresh produce aisles and regular checks on the staff that do the customer’s shopping, are made by the On-Line Management colleagues, to ensure that they are carrying out the procedures correctly etc. If a customer’s particular chosen item has a “short date” and has not opted for a substitute of the same type etc, then there will always be a warning about that particular item, given verbally by the driver delivering the shopping and also an advice note on the Delivery Confirmation email sent to the customer on the same day, so that they will be aware. The customer also has the right to not accept that item if the “use by” date is too short and can hand it back to the delivery driver and will then receive a full refund of the price paid, in due course. I hope this information helps 😊

[@thomasneal7339]

You are so right!

[@BrandonLeeBrown]

There are places in the US so safe that people leave their doors unlocked and leave the keys in their cars, but not in the big cities.

[@margaretstanton7567]

@@BrandonLeeBrown Where??

[@mikefoster6018]

Lovely stuff! I like how it's very normal to say "afternoon" (or "morning", "evening") to strangers in the English countryside, as you walk past them. Almost like a subtle way to acknowledge that you're kind, or maybe even to allow for a conversation if you're coming from different directions and there's something coming up that you should know about etc. I do quick five hour hikes all the time in the southern England countryside and always feel safe, even though I'm carrying more than £3,000 of camera, hiking satnav and phone equipment.

[@rymoe6299]

Hey! Feeling good hearing your positive experiences of U.K. we’ve been getting awful media that we’re awful people since leaving the E.U.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Happy to do my part! (Or “bit” 😉)

[@sirrathersplendid4825]

Awful media - yup. Led by our very own quisling BBC.

[@phoenix-xu9xj]

The country as a whole is.

[@thomasbelassie]

The bluntness is a trait of north England, but people in the UK are friendly, and lots of countryside

[@PaganPunk]

It's like that All over the UK....blunt and to the point but friendly ❤ xx

[@csjrogerson2377]

Lots of countryside!!!! Clearly you have never been to the US. There are States the same size as the UK with only 500,000 people in them, not 68,000,000. They are ALL countryside.

[@aidencox790]

@@csjrogerson2377 Being an American, you totally miss the point. In a lot of the US there is NOTHING but space. I live here and God help you if you need medical or other help. It's a few hundred miles away and UNAVAILABLE - and I am 82 !!

[@csjrogerson2377]

@@aidencox790 Clearly you mistake me for an American, but I have been there many times. I have not missed any point. Its a relative thing. Nothing but space in the US WAS the point I was making. The Yorkshire Dales and the Central Highlands of Scotland are the UKs biggest open spaces but pale into insignificance to the US. THAT was the point. Whether you think that is an advantage or disadvantage is irrelevant.

[@TheChodax]

Really pleased you are enjoying your stay so much. You've come at a great time of year, the weather has been good and everywhere is upbeat when the sun is shining.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

It’s been beautiful! ☀️

[@paultaylor7691]

A most-balanced perspective of life in northern England. As a 68yr old Englishman back from 10yrs in NY, the differences (as you illustrate) are simply astounding. The country has its problems of course, like all other countries, but the fabric of the UK ... attitudes, infrastructure, qualities, safety, flora & fauna etc ... make it a brilliant place to be. Pity we have so much liquid-sunshine though, lol.

[@MartinT5600]

I've been to the US a few times and I Swear ya'll are the friendliest people in the world. I had so many experiences of Americans being kind.

[@fromrighttoleft8328]

...depends on where in the US.

[@nahha9529]

@@fromrighttoleft8328 Yes West is usually nicer and small town folks compared to big city people

[@bicyclist2]

This is not common. Especially in any city.

[@JamesWilliam70]

@@fromrighttoleft8328I lived in Bed-Stuy Brooklyn NY for a few weeks and I enjoyed being the minority and found the people friendly and the local food pretty good although most of it was Afro-American based. I also like the wide choices of potato salads etc in the deli sections of supermarkets, Spoilt for choice! Yes the Americans tend to put sugar in everything and you won't get a traditional baked loaf, although the rye bread was good enough. Yes i got asked for spare change a few times, but no different than in the cities here in the UK

[@davidmckie7128]

Scotch pancakes can actually be eaten cold (with butter on them) and they are not like the pancakes we have on pancake day (which are great freshly made).

[@JJ-of1ir]

I am really pleased you are enjoying your time here in our country. Despite your hay fever it's nice to see you out and about in this lovely weather. Take care of yourself.

[@robertfarrow5853]

Aldi, cheapest for hayfevr

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you! 😊😊

[@christinesmith7838]

I love the idea of signs talking to us! I’m old enough to remember public service messages on the T.V. Anyone else remember being told how to contact the coastguard via this method or Keep Britain Tidy?

[@davidmckie7128]

My wife prefers to shop on her own because if I go with her we end up with several things that weren't on our shopping list. "I haven't had them for a few years, can we get some now?" She does it a lot quicker and cheaper without me.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

That’s why I try not to go to the store when I’m hungry 😂

[@duncancallum]

Your wife must be one in a million David.

[@Thurgosh_OG]

That's why I do the shopping and my wife stays at home. When I go it's a basket but if she's there it has to be a trolley.

[@aidencox790]

But you get to eat what SHE thinks appropriate. Hmm.

[@PurushaDesa]

The couples shopping thing is really interesting. My guess is that time off work is so limited in America that it’s much harder for both members of the couple to be off work at the same time.

[@martinpalmer9662]

With annual net immigration running at 600,000 plus and a fairly strict planning system restricting house building over many years, yeah it's a competitive housing market. With England being the most densely populated country in Europe (excluding microstates like Luxembourg or Lichtenstein), we really need to get a grip on the former as the infrastructure development isn't remotely keeping up.

[@stevethewanderer1687]

It must be a bitter pill to swallow for those who voted Brexit thinking it would bring down immigration... So how do you feel about those with multiple properties? (I knew of landlords who boasted of having as many as 20 properties in Manchester, collecting rent to pay off their mortgages). Don't you think they have as much effect on affordable housing?

[@sirrathersplendid4825]

@@stevethewanderer1687- If someone owns 20 properties and keeps them empty, then yes, it’s a problem. Fortunately, that’s quite rare in the case of landlords who buy to let. It’s more evident in Central London, where you have large numbers of investment properties that stand empty for much of the year.

[@Thurgosh_OG]

@@stevethewanderer1687 Lost of us voted for Brexit to remove ourselves from the idiotic bureaucracy and outright fraud (how many EU workers and ministers have been done for taking bribes now?), of being a member. Thankfully we retaining our own currency. When Poland, Italy and Greece exit they will have to get rid of the Euro as an extra bother.

[@JohnJames-kw5de]

Hi Kristin so interesting to see someone settling in Manchester rather than an obvious tourist area. Well done. You seem such a lovely person and I’m sure your lovely personality helps evoke the positive responses. Please don’t worry about people teasing/taking the mickey- it’s a very British thing and kind of evidence that people like and feel comfortable with you - curious as that may seem! 😅

[@DanDownunda8888]

Aussie here...one of the fun things in life is British humour, especially Brit's taking the piss out of us Aussies and us hanging shit on you. 😊 We wouldn't take it from anyone else, except maybe Kiwis.

[@MrCakerape]

I'm going to have to question the integrity of your fridge. I have never had any meats spoil on me within 2 days of purchase even stuff that the sell by date was the day i bought it, unless i left it out on the counter. The housing issue goes back to Margret Thatcher and the torries selling off a lot of old council housing and not building more to replace the sold house. There are lots of other factors, but that the main one. It also does not help that in some of the bigger cities a lot of housing is being bought up by wealthy business men and woman who then rent them out at extortionate rates and some dont even look after them at all. Its actually criminal the state of some homes that are rented out to people and sadly because a lot of our MPs are also landlords, any changes to existing laws get shot down by the very people who benefit from keeping it the same as it is

[@Joanna-il2ur]

Of course the government doesn’t actually build houses or sell them. All of that was done by district councils. We can recall that Labour were in power for thirteen years, for ten of them with a majority of over 150. They had over a decade to do something and did nothing. Now they want us to vote them in again.

[@ljmrecords2564]

We treat shopping as a couple as a way to spend more time with each other and also help to teach our children how to eat better and learn about good food . Love from london ❤

[@Angusmum]

Those aren’t American style pancakes they are definitely Scotch Pancakes. They’re normal in the UK and especially Scotland.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

I suppose it depends what section of the store you’re in if the package says American, Scotch, or Dutch 😂

[@jonevansauthor]

@@TravelingwithKristin no all three of those things are completely different, and Scotch pancakes aren't what we eat on Pancake Day (aka Shrove Tuesday). That's yet another style of food. Which is great for us foodies 'cause more choice is always better. :)

[@DM-it2ch]

We've used metric measures in some form or other for 100 years, but we're still not quite there! I'm in my 50's, and I think of cold temperatures in Celcius (Blimey, it's minus 4 outside!!), but hot temperatures in Farenheit (It must be nearly 100 today!). Also, road distances are in miles, but petrol is sold in litres. Beer is sold in pints, and we still enjoy an 8 ounce steak to go with it, but at the supermarket meat is sold in grammes and kilo's. My son in law is a plumber, who often buys 100 metres of quarter-inch copper pipe. Yes, we're strange.

[@martinogold]

I'm the same, 0 is freezing and 68 is very agreeable.

[@Sine-gl9ly]

I've always loved sewing. I've been buying 3 metres of 45" wide fabric - or, conversely 5 yards of 2cm elastic - for many years ...

[@pennyaccleton6227]

​@@Sine-gl9ly Now you mention it, I've been doing exactly the same. Also, if I have to buy a length of something I invariably measure first in feet and inches, before remembering that I have to buy in metres and centimeters, and then remeasuring it, as converting is, unfortunately, beyond me.

[@lilzisokatgeography]

As a north english person, The north of our country should be more recognised instead of just the whole country basically being about london or england. So glad you enjoyed coming here ❤️🇬🇧 Edit- I almost forgot, People think our food is just fish and chips or beans on toast but im so happy that you shared that our food is actually really good! Have you tried potato cakes or pot noodles? (im not sure if potato cakes are british, but theyre really good!)

[@samanthawoodward7551]

I'm English and can agree 100%!

[@DanDownunda8888]

Are pot noodles British? 🙂

[@samanthawoodward7551]

@@DanDownunda8888 yep, made in Oakdale South Wales.

[@roughblooduk]

I have travelled a great deal in my life and have certainly been to the USA. I would never dream of comparing another country to my own because, after all, they do things differently in other countries,

[@mollymaguire1391]

Please always be safe, no matter how things seem. Glad you are exploring Life outside of the USA. ❤

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you for your kind concern, @mollymaguire1391! I appreciate your reminder to prioritize safety in my adventures. Wishing you all the best! 😊

[@t1281]

This is one of the sweetest videos about the differences and it’s lovely. Also, I didn’t realise that couples food shopping together was abnormal, but yeah I suppose it is. But together we can choose what we both want and don’t forget anything. I like to think about him and what he would like, but sometimes I forget. So going together is nice

[@gilberthill9816]

My wife hates me going shopping with her. I suppose I have this awful habit of sticking things in the trolley when she isn’t looking.! When we get to check out she’s too embarrassed not to pay. I then get the silent treatment all the way home. I don’t care! I’ve got my goodies.🤣😂

[@patrickfitzgerald409]

We do one week on, one week off food shop and each does a little dance when its not our turn to go. Works well! 😊

[@davidmckie7128]

For the amount of really hot days we have in the UK, it doesn't justify the cost of an air conditioning unit. We open the doors and windows and let the cool air in. As you say it is getting warmer and in the last few years there has been 6/7 days per year when we have had a fan on, not a lot out of 365 days.

[@glastonbury4304]

Where do you live, the Shetland Isles...😅😉

[@lemming9984]

If you open windows it lets the hot air IN! Close windows and curtains to stay cool!

[@glastonbury4304]

@@lemming9984 ...exactly 👍

[@Tguson]

@@lemming9984 If it's 20 C outside it will be much warmer than that inside with all windows closed.

[@glastonbury4304]

@@Tguson ...its been 27 degrees today , 20 degrees ain't that hot, so work away opening windows!!

[@trampertravels]

Housing - we are a fairly small island and we have a lot of people who buy 2nd homes which are largely empty for most of the year, so some areas are full of holiday homes. The prices are squeezed upwards. Fortunately a lot of areas are now putting in place requirements that you must live and work in the local area in order to purchase property.

[@Martin-88]

Not to mention the fact we have half a million new people turning up every year.

[@capablancauk]

Don't worry about aspartame. You would need to eat several kg a day before it is carcinogenic. I was at one time a bit twitchy about it but after a ton of medical books and research papers on it, panic over.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thanks for sharing your insight, @capablancauk😊

[@Thurgosh_OG]

I also did the research after my mum got concerned with reading articles , while visiting the US, many years ago. I actually showed her where that came from and how it was debunked in the US but she still avoids it.

[@jillybrooke29]

It tastes vile

[@morethanmeetstheeye1355]

I am allergic to artificial sweeteners. Horrible migraines!! I’m visiting the UK this year, so thanks for the heads up.

[@bentley684]

I havnt read every comment but I think it should be noted that this young lady replies to most if not all comments. I think that's commendable. Also as for converting temperatures. Just double it and add 28. It's not exact but close enough. Regards from South London.

[@davidmckie7128]

You talked about pancakes and showed a picture of Scotch Pancskes. Scotch Pancakes are very nice cold with butter on them. On Shrove Tuesday people have hot pancakes that they make themselved from scratch - they just buy the ingredients from the Supermarket.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Yes some packages say Scotch and some say Dutch or American. But pancakes are pancakes all the same! A universal food 😊 🥞

[@gillianrimmer7733]

​ Scotch pancakes, or drop scones as they are also known, are similar to American pancakes, but they are smaller, sweeter and meant to be eaten cold with butter and sometimes jam spread on them. They are a traditional teatime treat

[@Sine-gl9ly]

​@@TravelingwithKristin There are several different types of pancakes, 'pancakes' are far from being 'all the same thing'

[@argusmac9056]

In Australia when we converted to Celcius we had a memory aid - Frosty 5's. Tingling 10's, Temperate 20's, Thirsty 30's, Firey 40's. You'll adjust more quickly if you don't keep converting.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you for sharing that memory aid, @argusmac9056! I appreciate the tip! 😊

[@Martin-88]

To go from celsius to fahrenheit you just double it and add 30. Or subtract 30 and half it when going from fahrenheit to celsius.

[@charliebryce3783]

If you want to get out in the UK, buy a ordinance survey map or download to your phone and go!

[@gregniemi572]

Different areas of the US have more in common with the UK than Florida. In Portland, OR we have curbside recycling and composting. We separate glass from the rest of the recycling. Table scraps go in a separate bin as well. We also have a huge selection of fresh produce and excellent restaurants. But many of the other issues like crime and gun violence we unfortunately do share with Florida.

[@BsktImp]

As a born and bred Mancunian who, in my older years now, can't but help take the oh-so predicable view that "people were more friendly and things nicer in my day"😂🤣, it both shocks and scares me, not that you're blowing the trumpet so loudly for the people of my town, but more that I dread to think what people are like where you're from! Regardless, it's a great leveller to know you've had a mostly excellent experience of Manchester!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you for sharing your perspective, @BsktImp! I appreciate your honesty and am glad to hear that you still hold a positive view of your town. 😊

[@Flyboy1066]

Kristin great blog and fantastic that you have settled down in our country and enjoying your stay here , always welcome here too ,,)) 🇬🇧

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you Mil and Jukic!

[@Flyboy1066]

@@TravelingwithKristin Milan Djukic. ))) 😃

[@chriscarter2101]

Most British houses are built of brick or stone and well insulated and so even in hot weather we can head for the cool side of the house away from the sun, however, since bedrooms are usually upstairs, and heat rises, we might use fans and replace our winter duvets with thinner ones or even a sheet. Most cars though seem to have Aircon now, which I had only encountered in St Paul USA, in the late '80s.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you for sharing your insights, Chris! It's interesting to hear about the design and features of British houses. I appreciate you taking the time to provide this information! 😊🙏

[@jillybrooke29]

My house on the South Coast is fully insulated inside and out but oh it is like a green house in the Summer, we should be issued with air con along with insulation. I wake up (if I can get to sleep at night) feeling sick from the heat. The brick houses do not cool down for days

[@peterward1698]

My wife and I are originally from Manchester (Prestwich). We moved to western Canada 40+ years ago. The people and culture here is very similar to the UK but if you go just an hour and a half south to th US it is so different. The guns the lack of recycling the extreme politics and the food, everything tastes sweet even bread. All the things you noticed.

[@joannesmith2484]

Like Canada, the US is a big country with differing cultures within. Depends on where you live. We recycle, have boring politics (other than the loud sh**show with that crazy minority in national politics), and you don't see guns anywhere other than a cop's hip. That's not to say nobody owns them, it's just that they don't feel a need to flash or carry them around or discuss them with any regularity. And, seemingly unlike wherever the video lady lived in the US, we have plenty of fresh, local, healthy food in season. And bread that doesn't taste like cake. Listening to her, you'd think that she never shopped anywhere except Walmart. Maybe she didn't, who knows?

[@avaggdu1]

I wonder what people in Windsor, Ontario think of their neighbours across the river in Detroit? You can't really get a better comparison between Canada and USA.

[@davebowman7470]

Beautiful day! Glad to hear they're making you feel right at home. The British have always been particularly decent people. Ventured to any museums yet? They developed so much of our knowledge of nature and the world, WHAT?!! ... and the English language has the world's largest vocabulary. I'm sure there's a word for that!

[@chrissampson6861]

Manchester and the north have loads of great museums something like 30 in Manchester alone - Transport, Science and industry, peoples history, The Lowry, Manchester Art museum... Then there's all the Viking stuff in York, Maritime stuff in Liverpool, Royal armouries Leeds.... A lot of them are either free or very cheap to visit.

[@-NemoMeImpuneLacessit]

Lexicon

[@teelaprincessofparrots3808]

On your point about housing prices the cities (especially London and Manchester) are very expensive alot of people who work in the city often live outside the city in small towns where housing is much cheaper. As an example lots of people who work in Manchester live in towns like Warrington. Warrington is a 5-10min commute to Manchester but houses cost a fraction of the price. Some towns including Warrington are deliberately building extra housing to pickup overflow from cities like Manchester because of this issue

[@cmcoffey822]

Warrington is not a ten minute commute to Manchester. People in Warrington also work in Liverpool and Chester and other places too.

[@teelaprincessofparrots3808]

@@cmcoffey822 it is a 10min commute I do it all the time. I know people work in other nearby cities to but I gave the Manchester example because there are housing projects being built right now that are being made specifically for Manchester workers so I thought it was the best example

[@primalengland]

It’s always bl***y freezing in Morrisons. They definitely have ac. ❄️☃️

[@terencecarroll1812]

We live closer to supermarkets so don't need such large quantities and therefore less need for preservatives, additives etc. Because of food health standards we don't use sugar as much but rely more on natural sweeteners like fruit and vegetables

[@stephenlee5929]

Hi, the 'Sugar Tax' (my understanding), is to do with Drinks, it is based on the sugar content of Coke/Pepsi... (Sodas), or Squash (cordials). It doesn't affect (to my knowledge) any bread, cakes or other solid foods.

[@gillcawthorn7572]

I hear that sugar is put into everything in the US (it is or was a cheap bulking agent), so you people have developed a craving for it and you notice the lack . It`s considered harmful and not necessary in many foods.

[@niallrussell7184]

Subway bread isn't considered bread and has higher tax I believe.

[@sirrathersplendid4825]

@@gillcawthorn7572- corn syrup rather than sugar, I think. But that’s being pedantic, since corn syrup is mainly glucose.

[@stephenlee5929]

@@niallrussell7184 It is true subway rolls are not 'bread' in UK, but I'm not sure what effect that has on any tax, since it is never (to my knowledge) sold as a sperate item, but is part of a 'meal', my understanding is in UK if it is served hot, it will have VAT (sales Tax), if it is sold to be eaten on premises it will have VAT, if it is cold, for consumption off site and considered a cake, I don't think it has VAT, I don't think it matters in UK where it is cake or bread. I think the case was brought in Ireland, which probably has different VAT rule to UK.

[@niallrussell7184]

@@stephenlee5929 I think it is getting VAT because of the sugar.

[@redf7209]

Some supermarkets choose not to have things on their shelves too long so they buy cheaper when food is older so the food has less shelf time on it. It increases waste while the consumer has it so they rebuy quicker. If you buy direct from grocer shops you will find the food lasts a lot longer. I didn't think Aldi where you got those tomatoes was one of those supermarkets though. The point of soft drinks levy was to force reduction in sugar content above a certain level. Most companies impacted sought reformulation as a solution with various alternatives. The positive health impacts have been huge.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Interesting! Thank you for sharing that information, @redf 😊

[@johnmalin1676]

People outside the London bubble are salt of the earth, and genuine.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Lovely people

[@Terrydactyl]

You are 100% wrong about the sell by dates only being a couple of days. The issue is that you picked up things with bad dates, you can easily get fresh fruit/veg/meat that lasts a week

[@jasmineteehee3612]

Kristin we shop at marks and Spencer’s for food, it lasts so much longer and the quality is great.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

I just went there last week! It’s my new favorite 😍

[@sirrathersplendid4825]

Wish I could afford M&S prices!

[@mazdaram226]

What a lovely video , very upbeat and heartwarming , hope you keep smiling and enjoying the simple things in life ..

[@jimmurdoch7745]

The closer you get to the metropolitan areas, and major urban centres,.. the greater the quantity of predatory people you come into contact with. When you go out walking and hiking, the people you meet are also out enjoying the same activities..... A friendly "hello" is very common, as there's a shared enthusiasm. In the U.S. there's a greater level of reserve, as there's an assumption that,... "why are you talking to me?"... "what do you want?"

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Yes I completely agree. I was talking with a local woman yesterday about the same thing.

[@solaccursio]

In Italy we have different bins too. One for general waste, one for glass, one for paper, one for plastic and one for "wet waste" (peels, bones, food scraps and so on). I think in most parts of Europe it's the same. In Germany you also divide glass by clear, green and brown. Also, the law doesn't allow the food waste unit in the sink, because it pollutes the water and calls for more filtering and cleaning the grey water.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you for sharing, @solaccursio! 😊

[@jonkirk2118]

Great video! I'm glad you're enjoying it here. On the food front, if you aim for "organic" foods, they meet a legal definition in terms of ingredients, production and welfare. The Soil Association has all the details online. We've started getting raw milk straight from a farm. It's pretty amazing. It can only be sold at the place it's produced. There's always a long queue for it (very British, queuing) so clearly it's not giving them problems. If your local butcher has grass-fed meats, they're just as nature intended. Our local minced beef is top notch. I can't go back to supermarket meats. And avoid anything with palm oil or rapeseed. Yuk!

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you for your feedback and suggestions, Jon! I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Your insights on organic foods and the Soil Association are helpful, and I appreciate the tip about raw milk straight from the farm. I'll keep these recommendations in mind. Thank you again for sharing your thoughts, and I'm grateful for your contribution to the discussion! 😊

[@WalkAr0und]

This is a great video, it’s nice to see how others see us. I live in the north and there are good and bad things for sure. Your allergy may be due to a very unusual year, we had a very dry and mild winter, the rain usually washes away the pollen but not this year! You might notice the pollen count tends to fluctuate depending on the amount of rain. And that’s a great way to fit in too, talk about the weather, especially the rain ☔️ Glad you are enjoying the green (rain fed) countryside 🙂

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Glad to know you like the video, @WalkAr0und and thanks for sharing your thoughts too! I'll keep an eye on the pollen, and I appreciate the advice. ☔️🌳 Glad to be enjoying the green landscapes!

[@eldunenorap2250]

When I was in US, a quick aide I used to convert temps. There are 3 that are easy to remember: 16 is 61, 28 is 82, 25 is 75 (ish) So you can always work out a quick estimate - 20 degrees? prob upper 60s. 10 degrees? prob 50 or so

[@TravelingwithKristin]

🤯I haven’t heard this before! 🙏

[@awakeningcry]

I've always worked it out from starting with 10C being 50F (which it actually is, exactly). Every increase of 5C is an increase of (exactly) 9F. And the same for decreases (obviously)

[@auldfouter8661]

@@TravelingwithKristin 10 C is 50 F' 4 C is more or less 40 F. 20 C is 68F So 4 ,10 16, 20 and 25 deg C are 40 , 50 , 61, 68 and 77 thus covering most situations. 0 to minus 10 centigrade are pretty easy to evaluate too.

[@lesbrewster2375]

@@TravelingwithKristinby rule of thumb to covert Celsius to Fahrenheit double it then add 30 it’s not an exact science but it’s close enough for everything day things

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Great tips everyone! I’m employing these conversions immediately 🤓

[@geofffitchett1147]

Hi Kristin, my wife and I have enjoyed quite a few of your videos and think it's lovely that you appreciate the UK quite as much as you do. Jennifer is from Indy and has lived here since 2004, though we spent a year in Phoenix since then. For my part, I was born in Somerset and have spent a total of about 4 years in the US mostly through work. Jennifer loves England too and says she never wants to go back whereas I used to want to live in the US but maybe not anymore as I think too much has changed there, plus we are older now and know we will increasingly appreciate the support of the NHS as we get closer to (and into our) retirement. I hope your sense of safety is never sullied. The UK is much, much safer than the US but nowhere is 100% safe and the few people who are victims of attack are unlikely to feel safe afterwards, even though what happened to them is very rare. So I'd say, DO lock your doors and DO take care of your safety rather than assume you're fine all the time and everywhere you go. We sometimes forget to lock our doors overnight or when we go out and yes, it has always been fine, but I'm not going to make it a deliberate habit. On my first visit to the US in 1993, I got confused by pancakes, because generally, we have called crepes pancakes here and I wasn't prepared for what I received at breakfast. "What are these big fluffy things?" I couldn't finish one, let alone the other five I had ordered. Things we miss about the US include being able to buy what we want in the shops instead of finding it's out of stock and has to be ordered, or doesn't come in the size, style, colour, we want. Shopping in the US is like, if you can think of it, you can buy it. In the first year or so Jennifer was living here she was looking at paint chips one day and I asked what she was planning to paint, "Oh I'm not," she said, "I'm thinking about new towels and I think we should buy this colour," indicating a particular chip. It's as if she thought we could go to Bed, Bath & Beyond and pick from 40 different colours. Instead, we looked at about 6 colours and found we couldn't make up a complete set from the store's existing stock. That, to be fair, has improved and of course Amazon brings US shopping choices right to your door. What we miss most though is table service while out eating and drinking. As a man, I wish I didn't have to queue at the bar and wait to be served. I'd live a server to come over and say, "Hey guys, my name's Candice and I'll be your server. So, is there anything I can get you to drink?" then return every 10 minutes and ask, "How are you guys doing? Anything I can getcha?" Okay, so maybe we could do without the 'guys' part but I'd happily tip for table service and we both miss that kind of attentive service. Keep up the great videos and happy (and safe) travels. Geoff & Jennifer

[@corvidkusnos]

Scotch pancakes are actually Scottish, not American! They're similar but not quite the same. Both are really good though! And I'm glad you're enjoying your time here!

[@andrewrobinson-morris1852]

I'm glad you chose to stay further North. Its great that you have found northern hospitality and a nice change from seeing videos from visitors to the south. However not wishing to alarm you, but you should still exercise caution when around on your own. UK is generally very safe, but there are always exceptions.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you for your kind words, Andrew. I appreciate your concern for my safety, it's always wise to remain aware of one's surroundings and take necessary precautions, regardless of the location. Thank you for reminding me to stay vigilant, and I will keep that in mind during my time here. 😊

[@geemo4284]

My daughter does a lot of walking on her own in the countryside. It’s probably more safe there than in the cities and towns, but I always think it’s a good idea for her to have a small bottle of perfume in her pocket, just in case she runs into anyone dodgy (which she hasn’t). I know it’s nothing like pepper spray (which is illegal here), but it’s still going to distract someone if sprayed directly in their eyes - maybe enough to give time to run away. It’s really very safe, but it’s such a small thing to carry around, I think it’s probably worth it.

[@daneelolivaw602]

You mentioned Parks and green spaces in the Cities of the UK, did you know that London is so packed with trees that it is technically a Forest, this is according to a UN definition that anywhere that is 20% trees a can be called a forest. And the Forestry Commision describes London as the worlds largest urban Forest.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

I didn’t know that! It certainly doesn’t feel that way in the center, but probably when accounting for the entire metropolitan area. I love Regent’s park

[@Poliss95]

@daneelolivaw602 The UN definition of a forest goes on to say 'it does not include land that is predominantly under agricultural or urban use.'

[@daneelolivaw602]

@@Poliss95 I said Technically, and i would let the Forestry commision know too.

[@GFSTaylor]

Sheffield is the greenish city in the UK. It also has the advantage of not being Lomdon.

[@daneelolivaw602]

@@GFSTaylor That is a MASSIVE disadvantage i'm afraid. Stop talking a load of old pony.

[@adrianpetyt9167]

It's true that there are few dangerous animals left in the UK. Bears, wolves and wild boars have all been extinct for centuries in the British isles and the adder, the only venomous snake, is a pretty placid crieature. I'm genuinely surprised to note that two African KZbin commentators were shocked to see foxes wandering about British cities. We've had those since I was a boy and it's sort of a normal thing.

[@garystroud6153]

I'm almost on first name terms (well they don't seem to be bothered by my presence anyway) with my local badgers and foxes. Only fair that we give them room since most of their habitat has been ruined/taken by us.

[@dominique8233]

At 7.06 love the unintentional white heart over your left shoulder. The packet of pancakes were Scotch pancakes, different from normal pancakes so unless you are in Scotland you have to buy them packaged.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you for sharing, @dominique8233! It's always interesting to learn about these things.

[@sarahmoss4224]

I dont know where you go shopping but I only go shopping once a week.I look at the use by dates and get longest on fresh items like chicken/meat and veg and it just lasts our family till the next week if meals are planned out properly.This is without using the freezer and storing things properly

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Nice! What is your favorite grocery store in UK?

[@MaxKingsley72]

Excuse me “American style pancakes”????? Scotch pancakes which u clearly meant are what American pancakes are BASED OFF OF… they came first, like everything Americans think of

[@sylviet826]

Sounds like you are slowly fitting right in! I'll be in England in early September. I'll be in London and Kettering. Do you have any recommendations of things to do in Manchester? Or any other must see things to do in England?

[@coltbrown7473]

Kristin come to the Henley Royal Regatta next week for a real slice of great English tradition. Weekend is best.

[@TravelingwithKristin]

Thank you for the invitation, @coltbrown7473! The Henley Royal Regatta sounds like a wonderful event!