Americana

I met some people from England today. It was actually really nice to hear people speak normal. I have been thinking about writing down some differences for a while, so I shall do it while I have been reminded of the the UK.

When shopping the price is never the same as what it says. I have come to expect it because of the sales tax not being added, but at duke they have weird discounts so if you pay by cash its cheaper so I just have this confused look on my face all the time. Which granted is pretty normal for me.

Also the cashiers are really nice here, I'm guessing this is a southern US thing as its not just the usual 'hi have a nice day' they have a bit of a joke and a laugh down here. I don't know if its a combination of the accent or me being confused all the time. It does also feel like I get extra when I am being served for stuff, I guess that might be the accent, they do love it.

Supermarkets are just bloody strange. Far to many pre-made meals etc. The choice is weird too, you just get lots of different brands of the same thing. So a wide range of choice and not much stuff.

Fruit and veg are massive. I bought an apple today and it was a monster. It was bigger than my hand. I was scared to eat it so it is still sat on my desk.

Nobody walks. I see people waiting 15 mins for the bus to go one stop which is about a 2 - 3 min walk. I get so many strange looks while walking with my shopping.

Nobody swears. Although its great as I said bollocks loudly and nobody batted an eyelid. I have since taught them the subtleties of the use of the word bollocks and will be carrying it on with other gems.

I am really disturbed by the adverts for medical drugs on TV. They name all the side effects etc. The best ones are the sleeping pills that may cause drowsiness and the 'Viagra' type one that may cause loss of vision and dizzy spells, sounds a bit like its working too well.

Stupid questions I have been asked: So do you get fresh fruit and veg in England? What do you do on the 4 th of July? - this might have been a joke I'm still not sure.