How to spot an American....

All In London Forum
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ewmn
Besides sporting a camera and a map, how can I avoid sticking out? I'm a single female who will be travelling in your city and in Europe, and I don't want to draw too much attention to myself. What would you recommend that I don't wear, say or do while in your city........... Candid responses appreciated Wink
Posted: 2006-12-30 14:55:29
pattison
Hello,
That is a very good question. I am an American of English heritage and my wife and I travel to London/UK several times a year. I fell in love with London the first time I went there. (We live in Ohio.) The biggest thing to remember is that most Europeans hate our politics. If you are a Bush lover don't mention it. Don't waste your time trying to defend. It is best to just listen. When we are in London I see Americans all the time being rude, impatient and comparing the US to England. I would read all the books you can about where you are going. Know the customs. Lonely Planet, Fromers, Time Out are good places to start.
You will find that British people are very knowledgeable about the world and are great conversationalists! Strike up a conversation with a pensioner and ask about the war and you will be treated to a first person account about the Blitz. If you want to blend in with the crowds wear anything black or gray,jeans,leather jackets, dark colored shoes, scarves. Lots of dark colors.
Things that stick out: Big poofy hair, baseball hats,multicolored trainers (tennis shoes),bright colored jackets,shirts or jackets with Sports teams.
Leave all
that stuff home.
Memorize maps so that you can have an idea of where you are going. And always walk like you do know where you are going and people will ask you for directions. It happens to me and my wife all of the time. I hope I was somewhat helpful.

steve
Posted: 2006-12-31 15:19:28
Sherwood
ewmn,

I think you will see most types of dress in London. But I would suggest that a fairly average style of dress for an American would not stand out too much in London.
I know my way round London. I think this helps.
what plans do you have for your stay in London?
The normal tourist trips?
London is a fairly safe city (like most others) provided that you stay in the normal tourist areas.
I suggest that you decide what you want to do in advance and try to learn the map.
London is more complicated than most American cities. It developed haphazardly and is not a gridiron layout.

Sherwood
Posted: 2007-01-01 22:37:03
TheMog
ORIGINAL: pattison

Hello,
That is a very good question. I am an American of English heritage and my wife and I travel to London/UK several times a year. I fell in love with London the first time I went there. (We live in Ohio.) The biggest thing to remember is that most Europeans hate our politics. If you are a Bush lover don't mention it. Don't waste your time trying to defend. It is best to just listen. When we are in London I see Americans all the time being rude, impatient and comparing the US to England. I would read all the books you can about where you are going. Know the customs. Lonely Planet, Fromers, Time Out are good places to start.
You will find that British people are very knowledgeable about the world and are great conversationalists! Strike up a conversation with a pensioner and ask about the war and you will be treated to a first person account about the Blitz. If you want to blend in with the crowds wear anything black or gray,jeans,leather jackets, dark colored shoes, scarves. Lots of dark colors.
Things that stick out: Big poofy hair, baseball hats,multicolored trainers (tennis shoes),bright colored jackets,shirts or jackets with Sports teams.
Leave all
that stuff home.
Memorize maps so that you can have an idea of where you are going. And always walk like you do know where you are going and people will ask you for directions. It happens to me and my wife all of the time. I hope I was somewhat helpful.

steve



What he said :)

Excellent post steve
Posted: 2007-01-02 13:03:37
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