Across the Pond: My London Adventure

Hey girlfriend! When my friends and I visited London, we found ourselves saying, “It’s like New York but quieter!” And honestly, that’s the simplest way to describe it. London offers many of the comforts of America—English-speaking locals, coffee culture, trendy fashion, street performers, and reliable public transportation—but with its own unique charm and quirks.

Language & Culture Surprises

Traveling internationally can be intimidating, especially when you anticipate a language barrier. To my surprise, nearly everyone spoke English. I know what you’re thinking: “Well, duh, it’s England.” But hear me out—Canada, which is much closer to home, prominently features French. (Yes, I know the historical reasons, but let’s skip that lesson!) Beyond the language, London exuded a welcoming vibe. Contrary to the stereotype that Americans aren’t always embraced abroad, London felt like a warm hug. Every club and café seemed to play an American playlist, featuring everything from Aaliyah and Usher to Ariana Grande and Avicii.

Afrobeats dominated the club scene, but Bar Soho and Balls (yes, that’s the club's actual name) stood out with DJs who had us dancing and singing all night. The locals were polite and friendly, often joining in for a dance.

Fashion & Diversity

London’s fashion scene is a delightful mix of everything. Think business casual on the commute, edgy streetwear like baggy cargos and crop tops, or avant-garde looks with tutus and all-black ensembles. Shopping here is a dream! I hit familiar spots like Zara, H&M, and TK Maxx (their version of TJ Maxx), but the real gems were the local boutiques and stalls at Camden Market. Flying Tiger became a quick favorite for quirky finds.

Food & Drink

The city is a melting pot of nationalities, which makes it culturally vibrant. London is a haven for foodies, offering a vast array of ethnic cuisines and healthier options. For example, all the gyoza I tried were steamed, and juices and teas leaned toward natural sweetness from sugarcane rather than added sugars. While I appreciated the healthier approach, picky eaters will find comfort in familiar spots like Starbucks, McDonald’s, and KFC.

No visit to London is complete without tea time. We indulged at The Ritz, and it was everything you’d imagine: sugar cubes, finger sandwiches, classical music, and elegant attire. For a modern twist, you might try a tea cruise or Harrods.

Exploring the City

London’s architecture is a blend of old and new. Stroll along cobblestone paths to admire Victorian-era buildings, then head to Canary Wharf for sleek skyscrapers and a glimpse of the city’s modern side. Residential areas resemble New York’s brownstones, and you might even spot a celebrity among the locals—shoutout to Hugh Jackman, who we randomly saw!

Public transportation is efficient and eco-conscious. With a reduced speed limit of 20 mph to encourage walking and public transit, getting a travel card is a must.

The Minimalist Touch

Londoners take minimalism seriously. Microwaves are uncommon, so don’t expect to reheat anything. Food portions are smaller, sides aren’t automatically included, and leftovers are rare. Hotels reflect this minimalistic approach too—our room key card controlled the lights, and towels were limited to two large ones.

Polite and Posh

Londoners are polite and poised. While some might come across as reserved or aloof, most are courteous and helpful. People offer seats to those in need, and even in crowded spaces, there’s a sense of order and cleanliness. Aside from occasional cigarette or sewage smells, the city felt surprisingly fresh for its size and history.

Final Thoughts

After a week of shopping at Oxford Circus, marveling at the skyline from the London Eye, exploring the Thames on a cable car, and enjoying teas and ciders, I can confidently say London is worth a return visit. Who knows? Next time, I might even muster the courage to drive on the opposite side of the road.