An American student living in London has shared her surprising experiences since relocating for university. Caroline highlighted several aspects of British life that left her astonished, including a street she thought was fictional. Her insights offer a glimpse into the cultural differences that can catch newcomers off guard.
Unexpected Discoveries in Daily Life
In a recent TikTok video, Caroline expressed her disbelief at certain everyday practices in the UK. One of the first surprises was the way deliveries are handled. In the United States, packages are commonly left on doorsteps if no one is home. In stark contrast, UK couriers often return items to the sorting facility when recipients are absent. Caroline quickly adapted by utilizing Amazon Locker and other collection points to manage her deliveries more effectively.
Another shock for Caroline involved the availability of melatonin, a popular sleep aid in the US. She noted that in the UK, melatonin can only be obtained with a prescription from a general practitioner (GP). This stark difference highlighted the varying approaches to health and wellness between the two countries.
Caroline also pointed out the significant differences in twilight hours across the Atlantic. During late November, sunsets in London occur around 16:00, while New York City enjoys a slightly later sunset at approximately 16:30. On the west coast, Los Angeles experiences sunset close to 17:00, showcasing how geographical location impacts daily life.
Cultural Adaptations and Weather Realities
The climate was another topic Caroline addressed. She mentioned that while the UK does not experience extreme temperatures like some areas of the US, its dampness can make both cold and warm weather feel more intense. “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. Her observations resonated with many who have experienced the UK’s unique weather.
Caroline humorously noted that London “ceases to function” even with a light dusting of snow, a sentiment echoed by many locals and visitors alike. The unpreparedness of the city for winter weather can be a source of frustration for those coming from regions accustomed to harsher conditions.
The American student expressed delight upon discovering that the iconic Drury Lane, which she thought was merely a creation of the “Muffin Man” nursery rhyme, is indeed a real street in London. “Drury Lane is a real place. There is no Muffin Man, but I did have a muffin at a cafe there,” she remarked, combining humor and genuine surprise.
The post quickly garnered responses from others who shared their own experiences of cultural shocks in the UK. Many users highlighted the British requirement for a TV licence to watch live television, which one commenter described as mind-blowing. Others shared amusing anecdotes, such as the confusion surrounding the term “bathroom,” with some learning that “toilets” is the more accepted phrase in the UK.
Through her engaging TikTok slideshow, Caroline has shed light on the cultural nuances that often surprise American students studying in London. Her observations serve as a reminder that even in an increasingly globalized world, local customs and practices can differ significantly, leading to moments of surprise and joy for newcomers.
