An American student studying in London has shared her surprises about life in the city, including a revelation about a famous location she thought was fictional. Caroline, who moved to the UK for university, highlighted various cultural differences and practical challenges she faced upon her arrival.
Unexpected Discoveries in London
In a TikTok slideshow, Caroline detailed the aspects of London that left her astonished. One of her most surprising realizations was that Drury Lane, a street she believed was merely a creation of the “Muffin Man” nursery rhyme, actually exists. She humorously noted, “There is no Muffin Man, but I did have a muffin at a cafe there.”
Caroline also noted that everyday practices can vary significantly between the US and the UK. For instance, she was baffled by the online shopping experience. In the US, it is common for delivery services to leave packages at the doorstep if no one is home. In contrast, in the UK, packages are returned to the sorting facility if no one is available to receive them. This led Caroline to rely on services like Amazon Locker and other collection points to secure her deliveries.
Cultural and Practical Adjustments
Another adjustment Caroline faced was related to health supplements. She cautioned fellow American visitors that melatonin, which helps regulate sleep, is available only by prescription in the UK. This contrasts with the US, where it can be purchased over the counter.
Caroline also shared her experience with daylight hours during the winter months. In London, sunset occurs as early as 16:00 in November, whereas in New York City, it is around 16:30, and in Los Angeles, it is nearly 17:00. She found this shift in daylight both surprising and disorienting.
Additionally, she remarked on the UK’s distinct climate. While temperatures may not reach the extremes found in some parts of the US, the dampness makes it feel colder. “Even though it doesn’t get as cold as it does in cold parts of the US, it feels colder than it is because it’s a damp, bone-chilling cold,” she explained.
Caroline humorously noted that London encounters significant disruptions even with the slightest snowfall, stating that the city “ceases to function” during such events.
Her observations resonated with many others, as her post garnered numerous comments from fellow Americans sharing their own experiences in the UK. One commenter expressed astonishment at the requirement of a TV licence to watch live television, while another shared how the drinking culture in student unions was a revelation.
As Caroline continues her studies, her insights offer a glimpse into the often surprising realities for those relocating to new cultures and environments.
