People In The U.K. Find Some Details About America Very Confusing
The United Kingdom might like to think of itself as a close cousin of the United States, but many of Uncle Sam’s customs, traditions, and everyday habits are completely alien to those on the other side of the Atlantic. From leaf-peeping to lawyer ads, here are the American things that Brits find just baffling.
40. Halloween obsession
In the States Halloween is celebrated almost as fervently as Thanksgiving and Christmas. But their transatlantic cousins are essentially the holiday’s answer to Scrooge. Yes, while British kids enjoy going out trick-or-treating and indulging in a bit of apple-bobbing, adults pretty much ignore the importance of October 31 altogether!
39. Casual patriotism
Americans will think nothing of putting up the Stars and Stripes outside their house or a patriotic sign on their bumper. But in Britain it’s considered pretty eccentric to be so overtly proud of your country. The only time you’ll see national flags en masse is at a sporting event or Last Night at the Proms.
38. Talking to strangers
It’s perhaps little surprise to learn that Americans are a much more sociable bunch than the famously reserved Brits. Talk to a random person on the London Underground, for example, and you’re likely to be ignored. But across the pond strangers think nothing of engaging in small talk on public transport to pass the time.
37. Waiters taking away credit cards
In the U.K., restaurant customers usually pay for their bill on a card machine brought to the table. But across the pond, waiters will take away your Visa or Mastercard to swipe it elsewhere before returning to ask for a signature. Many Brits believe this is a less secure method which is more open to the possibility of fraud.
