Confessions of a Londoner

So, instead of telling you about all the great places and things that I experienced this week, I will take this opportunity to explain more about some of the cultural differences that I have picked up on since I have been here (It would take A LOT of blog entries to explain every little detail).

Being here for almost six weeks, there's a lot of subtle and non-subtle differences b/w the Brits and Americans. For one, the Brits are more laid-back and informal in the workplace, especially when it comes to communication. Don't get me wrong, they have great work ethics and are very productive, but the actual work environment and "water cooler conversations" are much lighter. Also, London is a very secular city. According to a guest speaker for my British Life and Culture class, only 10 percent of British people attend church/temple/mosque regularly. Just like in the states, consumerism and shopping are a cultural phenomenon here. I can personally attest Oxford Circus (the really big shopping street in London) is always packed on the weekends, particularly Sundays.

Other differences are more obvious, such as the "up escalator" is on the other side, and obviously cars drive on the other side of the road.

Read my next blog entry for more on my prospective adventures. But for now, cheers!