Expat Life

December 3, 2021 by: Sunny London

Christmas Differences between the UK and USA

‘Do they celebrate Christmas over there?’ My American grandmother asked me this question once during our weekly phone call.

I think what she meant was, ‘What do they do for Christmas in England?’ or rather, ‘What are the Christmas differences between the UK and USA?’

Most Americans have visions created by Charles Dickens dancing in their heads. They think Christmas celebrations in London involve Brits eating goose and hoping Jacob Marley doesn’t knock on their door.

So, just to keep things real, I asked my London born husband to explain what he thinks Americans do for Christmas. His response, “Watch silly television. Have pancakes and syrup and bacon that isn’t really bacon for breakfast. Eat dinner which is roast turkey with mashed potatoes and country gravy that’s thick like what you get at KFC and corn, like creamed corn.’

He also added, ‘Being American you probably don’t drink too much, like us English.’

Well then.

To learn more about what he means, you’ll want to watch this video on London pubs at Christmas.

Christmas- Differences between the UK and USA:
Santa?

First, the Brits refer to Santa Claus as ‘Father Christmas.’ It’s a very tough thing for me to remember when I am in a conversation with my English mates. Next, they say ‘Happy Christmas’ instead of Merry Christmas.

Ok then, that’s sorted.

Christmas- Differences between the UK and USA:
On Your Mark!

I still can’t figure out when Christmas starts England. I’ve had staff members in London pubs approach me about booking a work Christmas party. They start planning for the celebrations as early as then! In October, it’s common for #Christmas to trend on Twitter in London.

Americans are notorious for excessive advertising and gluttony, but we still have an official line for the start of Christmas celebrations. Thank you, Thanksgiving.

In America, once the dinner dishes are cleared at the Thanksgiving table, it’s time to get your Christmas gear on.

That actually could mean battle gear for beating crowds at malls. Up until recently, Black Friday was only an American shopping phenomenon. It didn’t really exist in England. However, for some reason England had an onslaught of sales and super deals the day after ‘Thanksgiving’ back in 2014 which was the first year I lived here. I still can’t figure out why but now it’s become the norm.

Christmas- Differences between the UK and USA:
Decorations

You’ve probably all seen National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation and Home Alone.

Most Americans decorate their houses entirely in lights and other festive ornaments. That’s not just a Hollywood portrayal.

In suburban areas of America, great rivalries take place during the holidays to see who can have the most glorious display of Christmas covering their house and yard. It can be quite a competitive atmosphere. And, then there’s some that take the decorating opportunity to raise money for charitable causes. Check out this YouTube video which features the ‘Best of Star Wars Music Christmas Lights Show’

In the suburbs of London, I rarely see houses decorated on a street. Usually 2-3 houses out of both street sides have some lights. The lights seem to be tossed haphazardly around a tree.

However, if you travel just 20 miles outside of London, you can see Hogwarts in the Snow, which is the Warner Bros Studio Tour (AKA Harry Potter Tour) covered in Christmas decorations. It’s one of the things you would want to book ahead if you’re planning on being in London during Christmas. This video below should help give you an overview of the the most important things you need to know about London at Christmas.

There are tons of events that sell out fast. One that I highly recommend researching for any time of the year, but especially December holidays, is the Candlelight Concerts. You can read my review of their Coldplay tribute to learn more about what you experience.

Christmas- Differences between the UK and USA:
Television

One of the toughest Christmas differences between the UK and USA for me is television. I just can’t seem to find Christmas specials on TV in London, except for an occasional channel offer. Movies24 runs old Hallmark Christmas movies. But, I need my claymation and old school Christmas shows on constant replay to really get in the spirit.

In America, the titles below (Christmas Classics for Kids, How The Grinch Stole Christmas, and Fred Claus) are each on a few times a week. I had to buy them in London because they are never on television during the holidays.

Christmas- Differences between the UK and USA:
Christmas Crackers

I learned about Christmas crackers the first Christmas I spent in London. Its concept is similar to a Thanksgiving wishbone but much prettier.

A Christmas cracker is a cardboard tube which has a present inside it. The tube is wrapped in colourful, festive paper. There is a banger inside the cracker, two strips of chemically impregnated paper that react with friction so that when the cracker is pulled apart by two people, the cracker makes a bang. This causes a loud snapping noise. The person holding the larger end gets to keep the prize inside. Note- since these are ‘explosives’ you can’t put them in your suitcase. So, unless you buy them in the US, you can’t take Christmas Crackers home as souvenirs if you’re visiting from America.

These are some of my favourite themed Christmas Crackers:

Christmas- Differences Between the UK and USA:
The Pub

It is tradition to go to your ‘local’ in England on Christmas Day. The times I have been to our local pub on Christmas, it is absolutely packed. People bring their kids and dogs for a few hours to celebrate the holiday. It’s open from about 12-2pm.

No, the kids and dogs aren’t drinking. Well, the dogs might get a few licks of beer here and there, but please don’t think the Brits are freely giving beer to their little ones. However, entire families are present and it’s joyous. The beer is also flowing pretty steady.

In this video, I show you the most iconic London Pubs to Visit at Christmas and fill you in on everything you need to know about festive drinking in London. (As if it’s any different from any other day!)

Christmas- Differences Between the UK and USA:
Boxing Day

I still don’t understand Boxing Day. Traditionally, December 26th was a day that servants received presents. Literally, they would receive boxes with presents inside from their employers.

What I do know is that since it’s a Bank Holiday, not much is open. Well, the pubs are open. Oh, and slowly there’s more and more shopping going on here on this ‘Bank Holiday.’

In America, the post-holiday sales kick off on this day.

Christmas- Similarities between the UK and USA:

Despite these differences, there are also some things that are in fact the same on both sides of the pond.
– There are major sales after Christmas. In London, they’re referred to as the ‘January sales’ and last a little bit longer than American retail sales.
– Stores play Christmas music throughout the season. In England, it seems Paul McCartney’s ‘Wonderful Christmas Time’ and George Michael’s ‘Last Christmas’ are rotated around every other song. I’ve never once heard Madonna’s ‘Santa Baby.’ I’m grateful for that.
– All those ‘happy holidays’ tend to drive some of us over the edge. Family arguments are at their peak in both the UK and USA over this stretch of time.
– Ugly sweaters/jumpers exist everywhere.
– We all like to open presents for Christmas.
– The red ‘Starbucks’ cup arrival is one of the most anticipated events of the holiday season in the UK and the USA.

I write often about Christmas Things to Do in London on my blog.

The best way to make sure you don’t miss behind the scenes news about London’s food, life, culture and events is to subscribe to the Sunny News email. If you’re planning a visit to London, the Sunny News YouTube channel has regular updates which shows you what’s happening here and gives advice for things to do and what you’ll need to know about London.

For example, the video below outlines what you need to know about the changes to Winter Wonderland due to the pandemic. And I publish daily updates on my TikTok account too, if you’re seeking the most current London food and events news.

If there is a specific topic or question you want covered, you can always request it in the comments section below or in a video’s comments.

What can you add to these Christmas differences between the UK and USA? What do you think of Mr. Sunny’s guess that there’s more drinking in England for Christmas than in America?

March 23, 2015 by: Sunny London

Differences between British vs American Schools

‘What are the differences between British vs American schools?’ is a question I receive often because I have written several advice posts on American expat life in London. For this reason, I thought it might be fun to highlight some of the biggest differences here on the blog.

While you might think a school is a school, I’ve definitely ~~learnt~~ learned that’s not the case when comparing across the pond. And, yes, that strikethrough is there because it represents how British people spell the word, as opposed to American.

Also, there are quite a few differences between the way teachers are hired so if you’re looking to teach in the uk then you might want to look into what qualifications you need in order to get a teaching job here. It’s not just different for the kids but also for the teachers!

That’s just the surface of the differences between British vs American schools, Sunny friends. Take a look…

British vs American Schools- Who has more Class?

When Americans belt out Alice Cooper’s ‘School’s out for summer!’, they really have a reason to celebrate. In America, schools generally give students around 10-12 weeks of vacation. They can release students anywhere from the end of May to mid August, or mid-June to the beginning of September. British schools are quite different. They generally end their academic year in mid-July and begin the first week of September. This gives students about 6 weeks of a summer holiday.

However, British students receive much more time away from school during the academic year, in comparison to American students. Nearly all British schools have a half-term, one week break in October, February and May. They also receive at least two weeks holiday over both Christmas and Easter holidays.

British vs American Schools- Off to Gryffindor

I giggle every time I pass British kids on their way to or from school in London.

Why?

I always feel like the kids are spawns of wizards or muggles on their way to Hogwarts in their colourful uniforms. However, I keep my chuckles to myself, in the event one of them actually pulls out a wand and aims it in my general direction.

American kids can wear what they want to school. I remember days in Florida when I wore a bathing suit top under my t-shirt so I could fast track it to the beach when the last bell rang.

The British school uniform nearly always consists of a: blazer, ~~jumper~~ sweater, dress shirt, trousers (with the option of a skirt for girls). Most schools have ~~pupils~~ students wear a tie, regardless of gender. Students must ask a teacher’s permission if they want to remove their blazer during class if they are too hot.

Uniforms are made in the school’s designated colors. Mr. Sunny’s uniform at Hill House School was gold, rust and grey. Prince Charles also attended this school, albeit much earlier than my British husband. Here’s a picture of the school and a very old picture of Mr Sunny in his uniform.

Mr. Sunny also went to the Parkside School, and at this boarding school the uniform was grey and purple.

British vs American Schools- Where’s the Bus?

There are no school buses in London. Students rely on public transportation or a ride from their parents each day. In London, they refer to this as the ‘school run.’ It’s definitely a time you want to avoid being on the road or on a London bus.

In America, our school bus system is fairly standard. Every student who attends a public school has the opportunity to take ‘the cheese’ to and from school. And guess who had the chance to hop on a bus for this ‘luxury’ valet service once…

(I know my outfit matches the seats. Hey, if you’re taking the bus, you at least have to look the part, right?)

The big yellow buses chauffeur kids to and from their educational destination each and every day that school is in session. Most kids work part time jobs in an effort to buy a car so that they can transport themselves to school and other places.

British vs American Schools- What’s the plan?

British students spend ages 5-10 in primary schools. Secondary schools have students ages 11-18. There are no middle schools, unlike America and these schools accept students based on their school catchment areas. Until recently, British schools were compulsory for kids until they were only sixteen years old.

In America, we say students are in ‘Seventh Grade.’ British students of the same age are in ‘Year 8’. They are labeled a higher number in comparison to the US because we call the first formal year of school ‘Kindergarten’, which is the equivalent to ‘Year 1’ in England.

British school years are further broken in to groups called Key Stages. For example, Years 7-9 are classified as Key Stage 3. Students ages 16-18 are in Key Stage 5, which is called Sixth Form.

When looking at study plans as differences between British and American schools, there is more unity in the British course of study. Schools (unless they are independent) must follow the National Curriculum. American school teachers experience a substantial amount of freedom in comparison to what they can teach and when against their British counterparts.

Instruction for British secondary students focuses on the GCSE subject exams and the A Levels. In America, the SAT and ACT are the only real standardized tests that students take at a national level.

The SAT is most popular and is taken on a Saturday morning, usually at the beginning of a student’s junior year. It is quite honestly- dreadful. It features three sections: math, critical reading and writing. For nearly four hours, students struggle to answer questions that seem to have no reflection on what they study in school each day. However, the results of this test have a substantial effect on a student’s ability to apply for a university.

Most American expat students in London tend to receive their education at International Baccalaureate schools because the work is transferable in all countries and universities.

At the end of a class period, British students must stand at their desks and wait for a teacher to say they are dismissed. In America, when the bell rings, you run. The end.

British vs American Schools- Food for Thought

I can’t tell you how many times British people have asked me to explain a ‘tater tot’. They find that food wildly entertaining. This is comical to me because every American associates a tater tot with a school cafeteria lunch. Tater tots are small, deep-fried grated potatoes and they’re always included on a cafeteria lunch tray, with chocolate milk, of course.

American school cafeterias are not pleasant places. For lunch, kids wait in a line to be served a piece of soggy cardboard with two thick slices of pseudo-pepperoni, a thick red paste and chewy cheese that was probably manufactured from particles in the bottom of a bin in a science class weeks before. Next to their pizza is a watery, dull yellow substance called ‘Apple sauce.’ Finally, there’s a scoop of fruit salad. It’s usually hard to tell what fruits are featured because they’re all a greenish grey color and are very squishy.

British students call their lunchroom a ‘Canteen’. A random week at a British boarding school features Main Course lunch selections such as:
– Ratatouille with Mediterranean Herb Couscous
– Vegetable Moussaka
– Vegetarian Sausage Cassoulet
– Asparagus, Sunblush Tomato and Mozzarella Risotto
– Pea and Asparagus Girasole with a Cream and Chive Sauce with Fresh Parmesan Flakes

School children in England are absolutely forbidden to eat food in class. They are also only allowed to drink fruit juices or water. A ~~fizzy drink~~ soda is banned from a classroom. American kids enjoy Red Bull or Mountain Dew with a hefty bag of Cheetos for breakfast in a first period class.

British vs American Schools- Who gets more?

Extra-curricular activities take place on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean. However, in America, we tower above what the British offer. American students can choose from an array of sports like football, soccer, la crosse, hockey, swimming, tennis, track and field, baseball and basketball.

We also have events like pep rallies, where the entire school gathers in the sports gym instead of going to class. This is for the purpose of seeing the football players, basketball players, cheerleaders, dance team, majorettes and band display school spirit in support of a big upcoming game.

Further, students can belong to clubs like Art, Science Olympiad, Photography, DECA, FFA (Future Farmers of America), National Honor Society, Marching Band, Chemistry Club, Chess Club, Frisbee Club, French Club, Latin Club, Interact, Model UN, Debate Club, Ping Pong Club, Video Gaming Club, and Shrimp Club.

Ok. That last ‘club’ was an ode to Forest Gump joke. I think. But…you never know. 😉

In America, if kids can convince the school that their club idea is worthy, there’s room in the extra-curricular budget, and they have a faculty advisor, then they can form their group. I guess it’s likely that there could be a group of marine biology students in Florida who start a Shrimp Club, right?

British vs American Schools- To Level or not to Level?

American schools offer classes that are usually either general or advanced. That’s it. Students mostly pick which type of class they’d like to take. Those that want the higher level need a teacher’s recommendation to register.

This is not the case in British schools. Students are separated in to numerous ability levels and can be changed and regrouped throughout the year. Therefore, it is clear to everyone what type of progress a student is or is not making.

British vs American Schools- Time and Tables

An educator’s schedule in a secondary British school is referred to as a ‘Timetable.’ Some schools offer them by one week, some by two weeks. They change daily and it’s rare for them to see the same class at the same time each day. British teachers could teach English to Year 7, Year 8, Year 9, Year 10 and Year 11 within a five day week.

In comparison, American schools basically have kids take the same classes in the same order nearly every day of the week, with the exception of gym. Teachers call their workload ‘Preps’ and rarely have more than three a year. For example, a teacher with three preps would teach 9th Grade English, 10th Grade English, and 11th Grade English. That’s it.

Teachers in America must apply for teaching certification in every state they wish to work. The requirements and process for each state is complicated and long. It also costs money for each certificate. They often need to be renewed every several years.

British teachers apply for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) after they have trained and worked for a period of time. This enables them to teach any subject for which a school feels they are suited. Therefore, a teacher could teach English, Dance, Geography or Maths while working in one position at a school. However, it’s highly unlikely that would occur.

British vs American Schools- It’s no Musical!

Finally, British kids have the perception that American schools are like those they have seen in High School Musical and Mean Girls.

Thanks to Hollywood, American students are perceived to be very segregated by popularity groups like cheerleaders, football players and band geeks. So, I have to ask my American friends, do you think this is the case in American schools?

What other differences between British vs American schools can you add?

UPDATE: February 2, 2017

* After more time in London, and regular interest from readers, I created a YouTube video addressing many more differences between the school systems. Please add your comments/questions there too and share it on your social networks as well!

September 25, 2015 by: Sunny London

USA vs UK- 5 Life Conveniences You Won’t Have!

Can you name five life conveniences that don’t exist when you compare life in the USA vs UK? There are a few every day hardships that Americans in London experience while living abroad that you would never guess occur!

These aren’t fun things like certain American foods (Skittles, Mexican cuisine, peanut butter) or cool shops like Sephora. We are going to classify those items as amenities for this blog post.

I am writing about regular every day items. These are things you wouldn’t notice as missing while in London on holiday. If you’re making an international move through a company, you probably won’t learn about them in your ‘expat moving to another country research’ either.

It isn’t until your feet hit the UK ground and you start living that you’ll suffer through the losses. And I mean, SUFFER!

#1 USA vs UK- Forget a Filter

It’s always tricky trying to determine if a British person is really making fun of you or just ‘taking the piss out of you.’ You have to filter through a lot of sarcasm in social and professional conversations. One thing you don’t have a filter for, however, is your window in the UK.

American friends, get ready to live without window screens. In several years, I have yet to see one in a London window.

That’s right. For whatever reason, you won’t find window screens in London. As a Florida girl who grew up in a state full of love bugs, leaping lizards, pooping Pelicans and ‘no see ’ems’, windows without screens are terrifying.

#2 USA vs UK- No Bathroom Blowouts

Spend time each morning blow drying and straightening your hair in the bathroom, ladies? Say goodbye to that too. If there is a plug in your bathroom, it’s most likely for an electrical shaver and is shaped differently than other plugs.

It’s rare to have access to any small electrical appliances in the bathroom to do your hair. I’d love to know the reason for this, so I hope my British friends share their thoughts in the comments section. In our new flat, I literally had to buy a Plastic Frame Over Door Mirror from Amazon UK so I could have see what I am doing to my hair with a blow dryer.

#3 USA vs UK- Pay Per Minute

While it’s understood in the USA that long distance calls might cost money, depending on your phone plan, local numbers are always free.

In London I am always confused as to what numbers I can call and not be charged an additional fee per minute. Quite a few numbers, even though they are in London, can be pay per minute if they are companies or businesses. Don’t assume that when you call a company like Delta Airlines that the number is ‘toll-free.’

Make sure if you move to London, you check if the number you are calling is an additional charge or not prior to spending a long time on hold or in a conversation.

#4 USA vs UK- Let it Gooooo! Let it Goooo!

Be prepared to have a refrigerator and freezer which are half the size of what you have in the USA. For London readers, this was my kitchen in the three bedroom townhouse I owned in New York before I sold it and moved to London. Notice the huge shiny refrigerator…

Further, I had an additional refrigerator and freezer in my garage, even though I lived by myself.

Americans, if you can picture a medium sized office refrigerator, that is pretty much what you’ll have in London. Also, in smaller flats, you might even have these two appliances separated and in different areas of the kitchen, which brings me to our biggest difference…

#5 USA vs UK- Wash and Wear

Not only will your clothes washer likely be in the kitchen, but it’s really possible you won’t have a drier.

Yes, that is correct. I lived in a fourth floor flat (with no lift) that we were told would have a drier. It didn’t. We also didn’t have a balcony.

Do you know what it’s like waiting days to have dry clothes because they’re air-drying all over your flat? Mr. Sunny was advised he could not have friends in the flat until he entered and did a ‘knicker sweep.’ This means he had to make sure none of my knickers (‘underwear’ for Americans) were hanging up to dry in a visible area before he let in his mates.

Have you ever worn a pair of jeans that air dried? An American expat friend also living in London asked me once, ‘So are you sick of wearing crunchy jeans yet?’

Eeek! That says it all!

Mr. Sunny and I now have the ‘fortune’ of having a flat that has a drier. It isn’t even close to what you use in the USA. At best, it dries my clothes, sheets and towels about 80% after 90 minutes. I still have to hang sheets on furniture for some time before making a bed. Good times.

In America, having a separate washer and drier that are huge is fairly standard.

READ THIS SLOWLY and CAREFULLY if you are preparing to move to London:
– When you are looking at flats online, take a careful look at the kitchen. If a refrigerator isn’t pictured, it could be either around the corner of the kitchen (yes, I’ve seen that happen) or behind a cabinet door.

Also, don’t confuse a washer with a dishwasher in online ads for flats. In a picture, since you are not accustom to thinking about a clothes washer in a kitchen, you might not realise that’s what you’re seeing in the picture and may assume it’s a dishwasher.

Be sure to inquire about a drier if that’s important to you. You’ll likely get a combination appliance, which means you can’t do a load of laundry as you have a load in a drier.

I share current information about my washer/dryer experience and cons of living in London after eight years in the video below.

USA vs UK- Final Thoughts

While I love living in London, not having these basic life conveniences makes some days very tough. I’ve written about other things Americans will miss in London (like differences in Christmas celebrations) but would love to read what you can add, if you’re an American expat here too. Finally, here is a review of my international shipping company and a discount on your shipping.

Also, if you’re British and can add a reverse comparison, that would be appreciated by us all too!

If you’re planning a visit to London, the Sunny News YouTube channel has regular updates of advice for things to do and what you’ll need to know about London. This includes safety tips, pub advice, and a shopping guide.

September 20, 2015 by: Sunny London

Expat Chat: An Interactive LiveStream Broadcast

What is Expat Chat? Who needs it?

Are you an expat who can share what you’ve learned with people who could be in a similar situation? Can you help them find the best place to settle down? Or perhaps you are living as an expat and have questions about life abroad and can’t wait for the time it takes to receive a response in a forum?

Maybe you are planning for an international move and want to start making connections with people in your upcoming country of residence? Are you in international relationship and have questions about being an expat before you leave your home country?

Forget the Forums! YOU should watch, comment and question in real time during the livestream broadcast Expat Chat on Blab!

Expat Chat: What is it?

Because all of these questions and more were mine at some point, I have started a show called ‘Expat Chat’ which will serve to inform, support, connect and maybe entertain our global expat community.

Expat Chat: How does it work?

Each Friday I will publish an expat related post on this blog. Topics will include content like: culture shock, the visa process, living away from family, communication problems due to language differences, doing taxes in a foreign country, holiday traditions, etc.

Sometimes topics will be heavy and other times they’ll just be plain fun!

The weekly blog post will close with a short bio of the guests who will be on the upcoming live-streaming show, ‘Expat Chat on Blab’, to talk about the topic. You’ll have all weekend to read the post, gather ideas, add your comments and questions for the show, share it with your expat friends, and maybe reach out to the guests.

On Monday night, I will do a Periscope pre-show via @Sunny_in_London to get our community excited, gather your questions and update everyone on the topic.

Next, Expat Chat will air via a livestream broadcast on Blab for 30 minutes.

If you haven’t heard of Periscope or Blab, they are both free. You can watch Blab straight from a laptop.

They both allow involve a livestream broadcast AND allow for viewers to comment in real time. The commenting feature creates a community that can engage and respond in real time. Blab has the additional feature of showing four people at once on the screen ‘Blabbing’ about a topic. American readers, Blab kind of looks a bit like the Brady Bunch!

You can either be a guest or you can watch and participate through comments and questions!

Expat Chat: Who Benefits

If you’re a show guest, you will have the opportunity to share your blog, business or services through the Friday post and livestream broadcast.

If you watch, you can help people through comments during the show and hopefully make some virtual friends who share your experiences. Or, you might have your questions answered through the expat chat. The biggest goal is for all of us to support each other in our global expat community.

Expat Chat: The Pilot

We’ll start our first week with the topic ‘Differences Between Countries that are Real SURPRISES!’. Be sure to read this Friday’s blog post ‘USA vs UK: 5 Life Conveniences You Won’t Have!’ I’ll outline five items that I am shocked they don’t have in London. Monday’s Expat Chat is open to any expat in any country or anyone who is curious about how life is different across the globe.

December 27, 2013 by: Sunny London

What American items aren’t available in the UK?

Greetings from the US, my Sunny in London friends! As I spend a little time visiting with my family, I’m also stocking up on the American items that aren’t available in the UK. I’ll have “fingers crossed” as I go through Customs, hoping that these items crammed in my luggage don’t cause them to pass too much judgment on me.

NEON TRAINERS

During my first gym experience at an LA Fitness in London, I really struggled with the different machines and free weight sizes. At one point, a personal trainer introduced himself and asked if he could help.

“Yikes! Is it that obvious I’m not from here? I’m so confused about out how many kilograms equal a pound,” I replied.

Through our conversation, I learned that I hadn’t done anything wrong or odd during my workout, but my bright turquoise sneakers were a flashy sign that I was from America.

Prior to moving across the pond, I was advised to stock up on Adidas (pronounced “Ahhhhhh-dee-dahhhs”, not “A-dee-diss”) because they’re so expensive in London, but I didn’t realize the colours I would buy in America wouldn’t be available in the UK.

COMET

Yes, I said Comet. On my first trip to Sainsbury’s to purchase basic necessities for my flat, I was not prepared for the lack of product options in the cleaning aisle. NOT ONE was familiar to me. I faced names like “Cillit Bang” and “Fairy Washing Up Liquid.” No Soft Scrub, Lysol or Pledge.

So, if I could bring just one item that is cheap, serves many functions and will transport fairly easily, I choose a can of Comet.

And by the way, I really enjoy that “Fairy” liquid for doing dishes, but can’t seem to get the actual fairy to arrive and do them for me. Londoners, any ideas?

VELVEETA

There’s quite a list of food ingredients we eat in the US that are banned in the UK.

You probably don’t have to do any research to guess why Velveeta “cheese” ranks high as a forbidden commodity. For my Sunny in London British friends, I can explain it as an imitation cheese that ranks somewhere between an oil and a solid substance, hence the reason it doesn’t need to be refrigerated until opened. HA! Appetising innit? Should I bring some for you?

Even though it pales in comparison to the delicious fresh cheese selections in Europe, I still miss it sometimes.

A BIG COFFEE TO GO

Perhaps the item I miss every day is a large coffee. Like Big Gulp size, if you know what I mean!

I’ve tried Costa, Pret and Caffé Nero, plus dozens of independent coffee shops. Still, I come up empty handed. Well, one of them is empty. Londoners, where I can buy a single serving of coffee that needs two hands to carry and is big enough to have its own post code?

That’s my list of items for this trip. (Be assured I’ll drink the coffee, not pack it!)

I didn’t include the scented candles which aren’t available in London because I already have a whole post devoted to that and made my pilgrimage to Bath and Body Works for their post-holiday sale yesterday. Now, it’s just a matter of figuring out how to fit these items in to my luggage.

Expats, what items did I miss that you bring from your home country?

July 6, 2015 by: Sunny London

How Americans Celebrate 4th of July in London

Curious what to do if you’re an American who wants to celebrate 4th of July in London? It’s not as awkward as you might think. In fact, it’s been my experience that the Brits love the holiday too. But, when I first moved to London, I wasn’t really sure exactly what would be the protocol for the day Americans celebrate their Independence.

As 4th of July in London got closer last year, I asked Mr. Sunny (a lifelong Londoner) what British people thought of the holiday. His response, ‘We love it. It’s the day we got rid of you people.’

Typical Mr. Sunny humour.

I was shocked at work when I was wished a ‘Happy July 4th’ from Brits throughout the day. I really didn’t know what to say. This year, tons of invitations hit my Sunny email for 4th of July in London parties. I chose to hit Trader Vic’s, an American company, because it had been on my list of places to try.

I also thought it would be fun to hear from other American bloggers to see what they think of 4th of July in London.

Meet Sarah, an American blogger in London:

Her blog is The Wanderblogger. You can also find Sarah flexing her mighty photography muscles on Instagram. And, this is what she has to say…

Hi, I’m Sarah. I’ve been an expat in London for over two years now. My husband, teenage daughter, and I moved here from Nashville, Tennessee, (the greatest city in America!) where we had a small farm outside the city. We plan to be in London for a couple more years and then…who knows! I (occasionally) write about our travels and life in London on my blog, so if you want, come say hi! Or hey! Or ‘ello gov’na! Whatever you find regionally appropriate. 🙂

I’ve got to hand it to London, though. Regardless of the fact that this day historically turned out much more favorably for us than our British counterparts, you will not be hard-pressed to find small festivals and parties throughout the city bringing a bit of the American Independence Day spirit across the pond. Still, I believe there’s an even better way to celebrate, which leads me to Sunny’s next question…

QUESTION: Do you have any advice for other Americans in the UK celebrating July 4th?

Recreate it yourself. Invite your friends, American or not, and throw a party in your own back garden, granted that you have enough room of course.

It’s always bloody hot outside in London in July so that, at the very least, should make you feel right at home. Whatever you’re used to doing to celebrate the holiday, do it here. (Except maybe the fireworks. You could probably get into a bit of trouble for that…)

If you’re surrounding yourself with friends, good tunes, and fantastic food, it’ll be much easier to forget you’re not at home on our nation’s birthday. Just don’t forget the reason you’re celebrating in the first place ! 🙂

Meet American Blogger in London, Kelly:

I’m Kelly, a PR exec by day organizing events, liaising with fellow bloggers and the press. In my spare time, I’m a lifestyle blogger of Flat Eleven, writing, taking photos and attached to my phone on social media. You can generally find me with a coffee (or wine) in hand and adventuring around London.

QUESTION: How do you feel about celebrating July 4th in the UK?

In theory, celebrating the fourth of July in the UK should feel a bit strange as an American. But for some reason, I get the vibe that everyone in London loves to celebrate our great American holiday. Of course, it’s more likely that everyone loves a theme party and an excuse to drink and host a BBQ… nevertheless it’s almost like celebrating at home. Almost.

QUESTION: Has anything funny or awkward ever happened here regarding July 4th and your American nationality?

It’s the usual banter of ‘We let you have your independence” or a personal favorite of mine that my husband says is “What language do you speak?” (He actually really enjoys the fourth of July by the way, he married an American after all!)

QUESTION: What plans do/did you have for July 4th this year?

We’re planning to keep it casual, beers, BBQ and red, white and blue. Probably Instagramming too much and Tweeting about #AmericaTheBeautiful.

QUESTION: What advice do you have for other Americans in the UK celebrating July 4th?

Get into the spirit of it! We all love an excuse to celebrate and it’s our day. Play the host and throw a July 4th party for your friends, family, whoever. And give everyone back home a call too, it’s a day when you could feel a little bit homesick or missing out on your usual activities. So be sure to get out in London and have a great time. If you’re looking for American support, as bloggers we’re all very happy to help and point you in the right direction via social, etc. And we lucked out that it’s on the weekend this year! Happy Fourth in London!

Meet American Blogger in London, Shobha:

I’m an American expat living in London with my English husband and 2 kids. I blog about affordable luxury and family travel at Just Go Places I’ve also recently started a podcast providing inspiration and tips for interesting family travel options. You can also find me on Twitter.

Photo courtesy of justgoplacesblog.com

I love taking a picnic and listening to the classical concert at Kenwood in Hampstead Heath on July 4th weekend. They have been doing these concerts for years. At the end of the concert, there is always a fireworks display as well. It’s a lovely if low-key way to celebrate July 4th in London.

This year though we’ll be spending July 4th in Iceland thanks to Icelandair’s fabulous offer of a free stopover in Iceland on your way from London to a number of US airports.

4th of July in London: Final Thoughts

Are you an American expat in London? How did you spend Independence Day? Are you British and have some thoughts on American Independence Day?

* A big thank you to Sarah, Kelly, and Shobha for contributing to the holiday fun on the blog!

May 30, 2014 by: Sunny London

What American food is not available in the UK?

STOP! Before you make that move to the UK, you need to ask yourself, ‘What American food is not available in the UK?’

Yes, Sunny friends, it is true, there are some food items that you will find yourself trying to smuggle across the border. And, I think you’ll be very surprised to find out what they are.

On my recent trip to the States, I spent some time in a local grocery store to photograph, purchase and eat some of these American treats.

American Food not Available in UK #5- Movie Candy!

Ok, so yeah they have candy at the cinema in the UK. But these are the top candies you’ll find in a good ‘ol American movie theater that you can’t get in the UK…

American Food not Available in UK #4- Hey Kool Aid!

There isn’t an American kid around that hasn’t yelled “Hey Kool Aid!” hoping this would happen:

I tried it in the grocery aisle while staring at this shelf. Unfortunately, I wasn’t as lucky as the kids in that commercial.

American Food not Available in UK #3- Sugar for Brekkie!

The morning battle that takes place every time Mr. Sunny and I go out for breakfast is never-ending. He just can’t understand how Americans eat things like doughnuts in the morning. Here in the UK, they prefer a full cooked breakfast with eggs, bacon (not American bacon though) and baked beans. Any sweet cereals they do have are also subject to strict food regulations that restrict sugar levels, meaning their cereals are much less sweet than ours. We, on the other hand, have an entire industry built on a jacked up breakfast. Take a look…

If you want this type of American treat you’re in for more than a sugar shock. It’s safe to say that you’ll need to have it via a special delivery, and the prices will give you a sticker shock!

American Food not Available in UK #2- Peanut Butter

Ok, so peanut butter is obviously available in the UK, but not at the magnitude an American expects. We have reduced fat, chunky, organic…

And this little mixer upper…

Doesn’t that just look like a jar of ooey gooey LOVE?

And, I’m sure you could predict this next American ‘gem.’

Hey, it’s made with ‘whole grain’ so it’s gotta be healthy, right?

American Food not Available in UK #1- My Best Bud

One of my favourite memories of my dad is the day he tried a new beer on a boat outing last summer. He loved it!

Leave it to the Americans to mix vegetables and beer. This American liquid sunshine mixes a classic American-style lager and Clamato Tomato juice.

Final Thoughts:

One thing is a guarantee. Whether you’re in the UK or US, you can always count on grabbing one of these to fill your grocery cart…

Yep. It looks like tabloid magazines are clearly an international love.

So, Sunny friends, what do you think? Any of you include this contraband in your luggage when packing for the UK? Brits, what are your thoughts on the Chelada beer?

Please share this post on your social networks if you enjoyed it. If you’re visiting London for the the first time, read the ‘Guide to London for Americans‘ Or you can subscribe to emails. I’m happy to help Americans find their way here faster, so share this post or that one if you have friends travelling here soon. My YouTube channel is full of visiting London advice too…

March 6, 2016 by: Sunny London

Moving to London: What Household Goods to Ship

When you’re preparing for an international move, it’s difficult to assess what household items you should ship overseas.

Luckily, when I prepared for my last move from the US to London, I had the advantage of having lived in London once before. If you’re planning on moving to London, perhaps my shipping experience and suggestions of what you should and shouldn’t bring will help.

Recently, I wrote about my excellent experience with an international shipping company. At the beginning of this year, they delivered 45+ boxes I had in storage in New York since I sold my townhouse at the end of 2012. Using an international shipping company like this will help you get your things in the right place without worry!

Now that I’ve finally unpacked all the boxes and have everything settled, I can reflect on what should and should not have been in the boxes.

For the most part, I am thrilled about everything I included, even if it doesn’t all quite fit in to my London flat perfectly. In fact, I regret more about what I left behind than feeling like I shipped too much.

Before I left, I sold all of my furniture except for two storage cabinets. I moved to London on a spouse visa, as my husband is British. We felt it would be best for me to get settled in to life here and then ship my belongings overseas. Once we found a flat big enough to hold all of my items, we unpacked them and bought furniture from Ikea that met our spacial and storage needs. This turned out to be an excellent plan for us.

Household Goods to Ship: Art

That white cabinet above is one of our Ikea purchases. I love it. However, even more important to me is the wall art above it. It’s not expensive. I purchased the decor from Pier 1 Imports in New York. It’s a piece that always meant something to me, so I decided it was getting packed for the move to London. When factoring what I could’ve sold it for against what it cost to ship it, the decision was easy. Also, I knew household items like that would be expensive in London.

Also included in my shipment were these decorative accents from Bed, Bath and Beyond.

I actually sent three of them. The other one is featured on another wall in our kitchen. You see, this wall above wasn’t big enough to show all of them together like I had them displayed in my New York townhome:

Again, the pictures weren’t expensive, but I love them. I also sent the two pottery vases you can see in the far left corner. Oh, and do you recognise that teapot on the right? It’s the same one that is in the first art work picture you saw above too. I plan on writing a separate blog on all the kitchen items you should include on a move from the US to London later.

Our flat isn’t quite large enough to hold all the art work I sent from New York. That’s something you’ll want to think about when making your decisions on what household goods to ship. There simply isn’t the same amount of space in Europe as exists in the US, especially if you’re moving from an American suburb. Further, you might want to save wall space for items you purchase on your travels once you live in London.

I feel my art work not only has sentimental value but also represents my life prior to moving. When you live as an expat, feeling parts of your home makes days in a foreign environment easier. There are many other pictures that I sent aside from the ones shown here. I don’t regret sending any of them.

Household Goods to Ship: Christmas Decorations

My suggestion for Christmas decorations is a bit two-sided. Again, since space is a huge issue in London, you probably won’t have any additional storage area like a basement or even large closet. For this reason, I opted to get rid of nearly all my Christmas tree ornaments such as several sets of matching bulbs and my artifical tree. I did keep special ornaments from family and friends, and I am very happy about that. These are some shots of the last Christmas tree I had in New York (pre-blogging days so I wasn’t really concerned about photography skills).

These are some of Christmas household goods that made the trans-Atlantic voyage…

Hey, a girl with a blog called ‘Sunny in London’ has gotta have a gold heel ornament at the top of her tree, right? I wasn’t about to play Cinderella and leave behind that little shoe. 😉

It’s important to bring your favourite Christmas items for your move to London because it makes surviving the holidays as an expat easier.

Household Goods to Ship: Special Products

Some of the best posts in American expat groups on social media include the times when people ask what products aren’t available in London. Immediately, the topic of Mexican food surfaces. It’s incredibly tough to find authentic Mexican food in London. Food items like Kraft Mac and Cheese, Butterfinger, and good peanut butter are a constant battle to find as well.

Then there’s this issue…

For whatever reason, you’ll find the quality of plastic bags and Q-tips just isn’t the same in the UK. Throw as many boxes of them in your household goods to ship as possible. Oh, and ladies, chuck some Secret deodorant in your stuff too if that’s the brand you prefer. Hardly anyone can find it here, and the equivalent just doesn’t exist.

My all-time biggest miss is scented candles and soap from Yankee Candle.

Yes, I know they have a few ‘satellite’ Yankee Candle shops in the UK. But, they don’t have near the variety that you will find in a US location. Let’s face it, you aren’t going to find this one below in a London store…

And at Christmas, this range isn’t available either…

You can’t even find regular bacon as you know it in London, much less a bacon scented candle.

At least I know that Molton Brown has a candle selection that is amazing, if my Yankee Candle collection runs out before my next visit to my home state of Florida.

Household Goods to Ship: Final Thoughts

As I indicated earlier, I have future blogs planned to help anyone with decisions of what to ship if they are moving to London from the US. Specifically, I will write about kitchen, electrical and clothing items. If you’re an American expat living in London, it would be great if you could include household items you wish you had or had not shipped so readers making the move can benefit from all of our advice.

The international shipping company I used is also offering a discount on shipments to people who use my promo code, so if that’s of interest to you, be sure to read this blog review and email me. These are my suggestions on what not to bring and advice for applying for a UK visa.

December 15, 2014 by: Sunny London

Moving to London: An Expat’s Tips to Save Money

Moving to London is a dream for many people. London has some of the world’s best museums, a fantastic theatre district, stunning architecture, and yes- incredible food! But, sadly it is often credited as one of the world’s most expensive cities in which to live.

When I first lived in London during my Florida State University Study Abroad Programme years, my parents financed my life. I was extremely lucky and lived on Great Russell Street next to the British Museum. It’s when I met my husband (Mr. Sunny) too.

Our lives went different directions, and we reconnected in 2010. Deciding which one of us would leave our country was difficult. Family, money, culture, and lifestyle were discussion points. We decided it would be me moving to London. It was a tough decision and the move wasn’t easy. For example, I had no idea that when I moved to London I wouldn’t have a credit rating.

A huge part of the conversations involved financial decisions. When I was invited to write a sponsored post on my experience of moving to London and expat tips to save money during the process, I immediately said ‘Yes!’ Americans, other expats and Londoners frequently ask me about my experience, so an advice post was a great idea!

Moving to London: Two Visas and a Wedding

Any person living in London on a fiance or spouse visa could write pages on that experience. In summary, know all of the costs before even planning a wedding. Also, plan on the fees increasing and the unknown to happen. It sure did to me.

I had the misfortune of sending my fiance visa application to the UK Embassy in New York City the day Hurricane Sandy took seige of the area. What was supposed to be a ‘two week process’ per our immigration attorney’s advice, was two and a half months of agony.

The smart things I did prior to my plan for moving to London were not purchasing the airline ticket for the flight and arranging to stay with my parents while waiting. The not so smart things in my moving to London process: resigning from my very lucrative job and renting a flat in London prior to my visa’s approval.

Once I did arrive to live in London on my fiance visa, I only stayed a few months. I had to return to the US because of my father’s illness. This stopped my ability to work, and my fiance visa expired.

We were finally able to get married in November 2013 in the US and opted for a wedding ceremony with four guests to save money.

We had to pay for the entire UK visa process again. This time we paid the additional priority process fee. It was perhaps one of the best investments we ever made because my visa was approved and returned in 10 days. No matter what type of visa for which you apply- pay priority! It will probably cut down on the ‘ride’ you have while waiting for your approval.

Moving to London: Job Search Expectations

Once we were finally married and I could begin job seeking, a whole new set of problems surfaced. Monthly prices on flat rentals had increased as much as 20%. We were forced to live even further away from Central London than the year before, and it had been 14 months since I worked fulltime.

People warn you about how difficult it is to get a job in London. Listen to them and plan for it. Prior to moving to London, double the time/money you think you will need to job search. So plan accordingly to this and be savvy on things like bills. Also, expect the currency exchange rate to fluctuate wildly. Since moving to London, I’ve seen the dollar equal anywhere from £1.49 to £1.71 in less than a year.

If you are moving to London for a job transfer, you’re certainly one of the lucky ones. If not, be ready to accept a position for which you are drastically over qualified. This also means calculating your lifestyle on a budget lower than what you are accustom.

Moving to London: Food and Travel

My husband and I shop carefully but still treat ourselves to dining out as often as we can. The concept of coupons barely exists in London. However, grocery stores still have things ‘on offer’ regularly. Having discount cards on restaurants and pubs helps tremendously. Research these through your bank and online as soon as you can.

Plan on using busses or the Underground as much as possible. I’ve written a separate advice post on that. But, buying an Oyster card and avoiding peak travel times are some of my top tips to save money on travel in London.

Since London is in such proximity of fantastic holiday destinations, you’ll have many travel temptations. Be advised a train is not always the cheapest alternative. In fact, many times it’s more expensive than flying.

Don’t underestimate all the free museums and historic locations in and around London that you can visit also.

Moving to London: Final Expat Tips to Save Money

Making money decisions is never easy or perfect. My husband and I know that once I get situated with a permanent job, our next step is to buy a home in London.

Did you find a move to London challenging?
What advice do you have to add either as a Londoner or expat?

What can you add to my advice for the UK visa application process?

You can read more about the expat experience on the blog. Be sure to see the review of an international shipping company, which includes a discount for you.

If you’re visiting London for the the first time (especially the NFL in London Games this Fall), read my ‘Guide to London for Americans Visiting the First Time!’ Or you can subscribe to Sunny in London emails. I’m happy to help Americans find their way here faster, so share this post or that one if you have friends travelling here soon.

January 8, 2016 by: Sunny London

When to Use a Fake British Accent (like Madonna)

‘Are you going to have a fake British accent like Madonna?’

That’s the big question my personal Facebook friends asked me when I announced I was getting married and moving back to London from America.

A fake British accent was the least of my worries.

Finding an international shipping company, applying for a fiance visa, and getting a job held top spots on my list. Then, I planned to get ‘Into the Groove’ of London life. However, I knew I wasn’t going back to Florida with a fake British accent and having all my friends ~~mates~~ wonder ‘Who’s That Girl?’ when I visited.

Like most Americans, I find a British accent endearing. But, I’m not trying to be a phony. I’m American. Not British (even though my great grandmother was from North London). I had no plans to speak with an accent. Well, not at first.

After a few months of living in London, I ~~realized~~ realised I would need to give in. ‘What would be the reason to have a fake British accent?’, you ask.

Let me explain…

While Americans and Britons technically speak English, it’s no news that British people use different words than Americans for many things. Knowing them is one thing. Using them is another.

Some of these words sound silly to me when I hear them. For example, if you’re at a restaurant or pub in London, it’s standard to say, ‘Where’s the toilet?’ if you need to use the bathroom.

I have issues with that. It just sounds so crass to me. I feel like I am saying, ‘I have to take a piss. Where’s the pot in this place to do that?’ It’s just not cool.

For the first few months I continued to ask for the restroom. Finally, I just got plain sick of the blank stare back from the person I was asking. Saying it over and over at a louder, slower pace always works but it is time-consuming. I realised I needed to surrender.

In a conversation with my sister, who moved from Florida to Michigan a few years ago and is noticeably losing her Southern twang and speaking like a Michigander, the phenomenon I explained to her made sense.

She said that if I start talking like British people, it is more a matter of speaking to be understood than trying to have a fake British accent (like Madonna). You reach a point where you just need to Express Yourself. It was a Ray of Light for me!

Reluctantly, I have started to convert.

I cringe every time I say ‘veg’ in London instead of vegetables. My eyes silently roll to the back of my head when I say the word ‘brolly’ when referring to an umbrella.

And, I’m starting to really let the American accent mutha flippin’ go by dropping the ‘r’ sound from many words like ‘paper’ ‘water’ and ‘register’ so I can save time and not have to repeat what I need so often. It’s time efficient, not an attempt to be a Material Girl.

I just don’t have the time and energy to keep going round, and round, and round in London.

The basics for when and how to have a fake British accent:

Be a Wanker- Choose certain words that you know are different for American vs British English when you need to communicate something quickly. It’s not Borderline. It’s a matter of talking to people in a language they understand. And- it will make life or your ~~visit~~ Holiday easier.
Open Your Heart- There’s a few keywords that go a long way in England. Please, Thank You, and Sorry. Master them with the full on accent. Sometimes you just need to say these words in order to keep calm and carry on ‘being British’ for a few fleeting London moments. Sorry.
Deepah and Deepah- Drop the ‘R’ if it ends a word. Think of that dreaded thick Boston accent that Matt Damon and Ben Affleck rocked back in the day of Good Will Hunting.
Don’t Start Spreadin’ the News- I have a friend who left New York two years ago and has completely Hung Up her thick New Yawk kawwwwfeeee talk. She sounds nearly British now. It’s not very Vogue. In fact, it’s a little too fast and phony for me. However, another American expat friend of mine (also from New York) has lived in London for 16 years and has no trace of Brit speak when I talk to her. It’s refreshing. Yet, when she speaks with English people, she fluently converts to the exact words she needs with mild British inflections. Bloody brilliant!
Crazy for You- Don’t use a fake British accent with your UK spouse, if that’s your living scenario like me. If you married a Brit and moved to London as an American expat, translating your ‘parseltongue’ is part of the deal he/she signed up for. You don’t have to wave the whole Union Jack at home.
Like a Virgin, Talkin’ for the Very First Time- When you’re with a group of American expat friends in London, on a return trip home in the US, or entertaining American visitors in the UK, remember your roots. Don’t try to show off your ‘bilingualism’ and have a fake British accent in their company. The need is gone so you’ll look like a ridiculous show off with no social skills. Those are times you don’t need to take extra steps to bridge any gaps.

These are the words and phrases I am still refusing to use: ‘take the mick’, kip, chuffed, fag (for the word ‘cigarette’), gutted, ‘got the hump’, knackered and whinge. What words are on your list?

These are the words I secretly love and actually try to use as much as possible: dodgey, slapper, nicked, ‘on the p***’, ‘one off’, Blimey! Bullocks! Crikey! Hiya!

What words do you find yourself using to have a fake British accent in London, if you’re an American expat living here? Any Canadians, Kiwis, or Aussies suffering from the same language barriers?

Do you agree that it’s a matter of being understood and not being an imposter when you purposely say things with another accent as an expat? Is it any different from speaking Spanish or French with the proper accent? But surely it can’t make that much of a difference?

For ~~the Sunny friends~~ you lot who want to know more about the American expat experience in London, just Like a Prayer there are loads of articles on the blog to explore.

I think that’s about all for now. Innit, brov? Unless, you want to read this blog post again to see how many Madonna songs were featured? Please, please don’t click on the picture below. You’ll be sorry!!!

Christmas- Differences between the UK and USA: Santa?

Christmas- Differences between the UK and USA: On Your Mark!

Christmas- Differences between the UK and USA: Decorations

Christmas- Differences between the UK and USA: Television

Christmas- Differences between the UK and USA: Christmas Crackers

Christmas- Differences Between the UK and USA: The Pub

Christmas- Differences Between the UK and USA: Boxing Day