UK vs USA – Page 2

November 29, 2019 by: Sunny London

How Accurate are English Stereotypes?

Is England a nation of tea guzzling, football-loving, heavy drinkers? Do English people all have bad teeth and charming accents? If you have ever wondered whether English people live up to their stereotypes, then take a look with me. Is it myth, legend or reality that the population of England loves queues and apologising?

The English Love Their Tea

Most of these stereotypes apply to the whole of Britain and not just the English, and this one is no exception. British people do indeed love their tea. In fact, studies show that the Brits consume over 60 billion cups of it every year. It is no surprise that English drink menus are so long, what with the hundreds of tea options available. With everything from ordinary English Breakfast tea, to Lapsang Souchong and Darjeeling, you can bet all you have that there is a tea for literally everyone. And, of course there are rules to follow when you are drinking it. But, Sunny friends the blog has a complete guide to afternoon tea etiquette in London, if that’s something you fancy.

london-landmarks-afternoon-tea-review-town-house-kensington

English People Have Bad Teeth

In films, English people are often made fun of because of their supposedly ‘bad teeth’. So, do English people really have bad teeth? Well, it depends on what you mean by bad teeth. The English certainly don’t go gravitate to the bleached white Hollywood smile. But on the whole, their teeth are healthy.

The truth is that America’s obsession with teeth straightening and whitening can be dangerous, what with reducing enamel and increasing tooth sensitivity. The UK and EU have strict health and safety laws which prevent many of the American topical whitening products from being sold in England. This means teeth may be a little yellower than their American counterparts, but they’re probably healthier. The NHS England (the national health care system) also doesn’t offer dental care to everyone as a part of its benefits.

Everyone Has Met the Queen

Does anyone actually believe this stereotype? Of course most English people haven’t actually met the Queen. Most English people have never even seen the Queen. Despite being a lot smaller than the US, England is still pretty large and spread out. London and the areas surrounding royal buildings encompass only a tiny fraction of the landmass of England. So, the chances of seeing or speaking to the Queen as you pop out for groceries are next to none.

For more details about this, you can watch the Sunny News feature about myth busting.

The English Live for Football and Beer

One of the best ways to fit in with locals is to simply do as the locals do. So, if you are in England, then this means going to the pub and having a few pints as the local football team is playing on the TV above the bar. Although football (soccer) and beer are both popular in England, this isn’t so much a national stereotype as a global one. In most countries the people enjoy beer and sports.

best-pubs-in-chelsea-kings-road-pub-crawl-london-surprise

The English are Polite

Much like Canadians, the English have a reputation for being polite. If you visit England, you’re almost guaranteed to find a local willing to have a pleasant conversation about the weather with you. Of course, there are rude people wherever you go, but in England, you are much more likely to be met with a disapproving glance than be subject to verbal or physical abuse. English reserve is a very real thing, and people will often suffer in silence rather than offend anyone or cause a scene. But, be warned – if you push into a queue, you may be met with several sighs and disapproving looks.

Final Thoughts:

If you’re worried about what to do while in London, I have you covered on that too.

Sunny friends, what stereotypes about the English do you think are true? Are there any American stereotypes that come to mind? Please, add your ideas and questions in the comments.

And how many of these do you agree with, Sunny friends?

This is a collaborative post on Sunny in London.

October 2, 2015 by: Sunny London

An Expat Shopping List: What Do Expats Buy When Home?

What are things you absolutely could not live without? Aside from family, health and the other non-materialistic obvious necessities, there are certainly items that you cherish and probably can’t imagine not having.

What would you do if those things weren’t as readily available to you because you moved to another country?

This phenomenon happens to expats around the globe. While many items are available worldwide, sometimes this means paying substantially more than you would in your home country and possibly having the goods shipped across continents to you.

Each time I visit my home country, America, I have a list of items I plan on buying. I feel it’s much cheaper to buy my favourite brands in the U.S.

An American Expat Shopping List:

Michael Kors.

Anything Michael Kors. While there’s several stores in London that most likely carry the exact same items, it’s just not the same price. This past trip I stocked up on prescription glasses, a handbag, perfume and two dresses.

Kate Spade.

Again, you can find her merchandise at London’s Westfield Malls and Covent Garden. Plus soon there will be a store on Regent Street.

However, look at the price difference below. Days before I flew home I purchased the yellow iPhone 6 case for £40 (around $55 US dollars). While in Florida two weeks later, I found the bottom phone cover for 50% off. It was originally $40 (around £25) but I paid $20 (around £12). Look at the price tags near the barcodes. They both say ’40’ but the pound sterling sure doesn’t equal a dollar.

Hmmmm.

I also stock up on shirts for Mr. Sunny. While Nautica and other labels he loves are available in London, they are nearly half the price in America. On top of this, I use tons of coupons at Macy’s, This stack of shirts was about £70.

Yankee Candles.

I’ve mentioned my fetish for Yankee Candles several times on the blog. People always include in the comments or on Twitter that they’re available in the UK stores and online. I know that. But the selection is so limited and, unflavourful if you will, that I don’t even bother.

Look at the Fall line, which was on display in Florida when I was there in August…

Seriously. There’s an entire product line devoted to wine!

A British Expat Shopping List:

When I interviewed a British expat living in America for the past twenty years, she also had a clear list of what she purchased when she visited London.

Her items weren’t focused on apparel and accessories like my must have shopping list. Instead, they hit another home ‘comfort’ category- food.

This British expat stocks up on Marmite and Twiglets.

While we aren’t talking about cuisine in this blog post, she did mention that satisfying as many crispy duck cravings in London’s Chinatown and eating authentic Indian food also were goals she had when visiting home as an British expat living in America.

Those are just two small lists from one other person and myself. Surely, if you’re an expat or have ever been one, there are many items you can add. Please write them in the comments below.

Expat Shopping List: Final Thoughts

I’d love to hear more from you about this topic. Please leave your comments and questions about expat life and what you miss below.

June 30, 2014 by: Sunny London

Advice for an American in London?

So, what’s it like being an American in London? If you have read my Quirky Advice for American Expats in London, from a few months ago, you know I love living here. And since I love all my Sunny readers just as much, I’m sharing more info about my London adventures with you.

Let’s get right to today’s topic then, shall we? I’ve put together a few more fun tips for those of you that made the leap across the pond like me…

1. Tips for an American in London- Fah-get a bout it!

When I was preparing for my third move to London back in January, my friends all had one question. ‘You aren’t gonna develop one of those fake British accents like Madonna had, ARE YOU?’

Of course not. No sense pretending to be someone you’re not. However, I’ve noticed I’m much bettah off if I drop the ‘R’ at the end of a word. British accents just don’t have it. So, for the times I need to be understood fast, I talk like the natives and drop that final R. ‘May I have a tap wahtah, please?’

2. Tips for an American in London- Turning Tricks

Even though sometimes I’ll say words in ‘British’ just to get on with my day fastah, I mostly stick with my American tongue and lingo, y’all. That also means feeling like a circus monkey sometimes.

If I had a quatah or dollah for every time a Brit asked me to say ‘Banana’, ‘Tomato’ or ‘Aluminum’, I would have no need to consider monetizing the Sunny in London blog. Cha-ching!

If you’re an American in London, just get used to people laughing at certain words you say and making you repeat them incessantly. Face it, you know before you moved here you asked all the British people you encountered to ‘talk on command’ in order for you to hear their accent. So, now it’s royal pay back. Deal with it.

3. Tips for an American in London- Niagara Falls

There’s some serious watah issues in London. I’m not talking about rain, Sunny friends. What I mean is water pressure. Get ready for Niagara Falls each time you turn on that faucet. Except, you probably won’t be feeling any rainbows.

Water bursts out of the tap so fast, you’d think you just went over the falls and hit the bottom in a barrel. In fact every time I do dishes, I feel like I’ve just been on this ride at Islands of Adventure in Orlando.

4. Tips for an American in London- Your CV will be Bagged!

It’s tough for Americans to crack in to the professional work force in the UK. If you aren’t one of the lucky buggers who receives a job transfer from the US to the UK, you’re in a boat like me waiting to prove your skills.

But, have no fear. There’s definitely one skill you can master while you wait. That’s bagging your groceries! Yep. Ever tried it? It’s not so easy.

I get nervous every time I go to Sainsbury’s. It’s bad enough I don’t know where anything that I need is located. But, I also have an extra tough time when it comes to checking out. You pretty much have to bag your own groceries in London. Slowly, I’m developing a talent for guessing how to stack and pack my items.

5. Tips for an American in London- You’re getting POUNDED!

It’s a losing battle with the American dollar. Have you checked the exchange rate recently? The dollar is worthless against the almighty pound sterling. Last year there was a time when it was $1.49 to £1.00. This past weekend the rate was almost $1.70 to £1.00.

It’s a nightmare! My advice to you is to hold off as long as you absolutely can on transferring your American funds to your British account. Also, if you have to use an American credit card while you are here, use one that doesn’t charge any additional international change fees. It’s at least one small way you can keep some of your American weight. 😉

A Question from an American in London-

Hopefully some of that advice will be useful to my American mates. But now, this Sunny girl from Florida needs a bit of advice.

This Friday is going to be really awkward. ‘Why?’ you ask.

It’s July 4th.

‘Oh,’ says the British person. ‘That day.’ Or, as Mr. Sunny teasingly says, ‘The day we got rid of you people.’

What’s this American in London supposed to do on Friday?

I’m guessing it would be rather cheeky to gather up some Yanks and go raise hell somewhere. Much less set off fireworks.

Should I just sit at home Friday night and watch a Kardashian marathon? Maybe I can eat some banahhhhhhnahhhhhhhs and to-mahhhhhhhh-toes?

Kindly leave your thoughts below, Sunny mates.

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. 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 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.

January 29, 2017 by: Sunny London

Living in London American Expat RANT

After living in London permanently for four years as an American expat, I’ve had enough time to identify what I don’t like. Yes, it’s my favourite city in the world, but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t a few things that make me mad. And some of them on a daily basis.

In the YouTube video below I share the things that make living in London tough compared to life in America. One of the things I don’t mention is what the hard water has done to my hair. I know – sounds a bit odd. It seems like hard water is just sort of accepted her in London. So, although I don’t mention it in my video, a question I have seen surface in the ‘American Expats in London’ Facebook groups I belong to is often about this phenomenon for girls. Most popular is visa advice, but then there’s the more finite concerns like where to find certain products we like from the US, etc.

This is what my hair looked like when I moved here…

You can see from those pictures that whether I would style it through a blow out, or through beachy waves, it was fairly glossy and soft looking. Now, not so much. I never used really expensive shampoos and haven’t changed how often I wash it. So, I can only attribute the changes to my hair texture and appearance to the hard water from living in London. I’d love to know your thoughts on that if you’re an American expat girl living in London too.

So, here it is (an occurrence that doesn’t happen often on the Sunny in London blog!) my little London rant.

As you’ll see, it’s received some interesting comments so far, both from life long Londoners like my husband and from American expats making the adjustment too. I’ve heard of some American expats renouncing their citizenship due to tax reasons to make the financial adjustment easier at least. If you’re an American living abroad and renouncing your citizenship is something you’d be interested in, make sure you go through the proper channels so you can stop paying tax for 2 countries.

The Sunny News YouTube channel, shares advice for things to do and what you’ll need to know about visiting London or moving to London. This includes safety tips, pub advice, and a shopping guide. The blog also has a Guide for Americans Visiting London which is a collection of the top experiences I recommend. You’ll definitely want to bookmark it and visit the Pinterest boards created to help trip planning too.

November 11, 2016 by: Sunny London

US vs UK Differences- Kitchen Nightmares!

When you’re thinking about US vs UK differences in living, you might not realize that there are big differences in something as basic as a kitchen.

I mean really- what could be that different?

A lot. Trust me.

As an American expat living in London for several years, I’ve written blog posts about basic life inconveniences you won’t have in the UK, health insurance advice, how to survive the holidays away, and how to save money. But this time, I’m getting personal with my US vs UK differences!

In this video below, I take you on a tour of my kitchen in London. I literally show you what’s different about it compared to an American apartment or condo. Not only are there differences in design and layout – for example, certain countertops that are popular in the US (learn more about these here) are less popular in the UK due to differences in interior design trends – but there are also major differences in functionality. During the video, I try to fit several pans in my UK kitchen oven. This is particularly helpful for people who like to cook and bake often (especially around the holidays). They are the roasting pan and jelly roll pan below:

(There wasn’t an equivalent size jelly roll pan on the Amazon UK website.)

If you’re planning on moving to London (make sure you read my shipping company recommendation), the tips in this video will be very useful before you pack your items or even search for flats online. Also, there are some big things that are deceiving about space in London kitchens that you’ll want to know.

If you watch all the way until the end, you’ll learn about one thing you rarely find in an American kitchen that I don’t think I could live without now…

Make sure you pin this and the Guide to Visiting London for the First Time. Of course, you can always subscribe to emails to learn more as it happens too! I regularly write about the expat experience. The Sunny YouTube channel has an Expat Chat playlist, which is a great way to learn about London too.

August 17, 2014 by: Sunny London

Moving to London from America- What You’ll Miss

Do you dream of moving to London from America?

There are a few life conveniences that you need to know that doesn’t exist on this side of the pond. And they’re things that people living in the great all-American suburbs will really, really miss.
Let’s get to the list, Sunny friends!

1. Super Stores

Think of how many times you rely on places like Target, The Home Depot, Best Buy, Office Depot and Bed, Bath and Beyond. Stores like that pretty much don’t exist in London. Yes, there are department stores like John Lewis and Debenhams here. But, you aren’t going to find the vast selection of items at fairly reasonable prices like you can in America.

The philosophy of “I’ll buy it when I get there’ might not work out the way you anticipate. With many items, it might be more feasible to ship them from the US to London. When you calculate the cost of a shipping container against what it will involve buying new items here, you may be surprised to learn that you’re better off with shipping. A few items I wish I had shipped but didn’t are: an iron, a Dustbuster, and a dish drain/drying rack. Of course, they have them here, but they’re either astronomically priced or the selection is extremely limited. With regard to electronics, you might not think it’s worth sending your American products due to the different electrical outlets in the UK. However, converters are fairly cheap and work really well.

2. Drive-thru Coffee Shops

Most Londoners are shocked when I explain that drive-thru Starbucks not only exist but also are in abundance in suburban America. Brits are pretty fascinated with this phenomenon. It’s a great conversation topic, if you’re ever stuck in awkward British silence.

You might think if you’re living in Central London you have no need for a car, much less a drive-thru anything. Point taken. However, some people living in Greater London own and use a vehicle. Drive-thru coffee locations are few and far between.

3. Shopping in Malls

There are two malls in London like the ones we know in the US. You may recognise the company who owns them both, Westfield. They are on opposite ends of the city, East and West. They are Westfield Stratford City (East) and Westfield London (West).

So, let’s be clear- London does have malls. You’re ability to get to them can be a challenge not worth taking.

In all the time that I’ve lived here, I have only been to each one once. As a North Londoner, the journeys are just too difficult for me. So, if you’re a girl who loves that weekly shopping trip with your friends to Sephora (Yeah, that’s not here either), Yankee Candle (Nope. In fact, I’ve written a separate post on that) and Ann Taylor (nada), forget it.

4. Television Shows

I still haven’t quite adjusted to British television, so I find myself watching the E! network here if I do turn on the ‘telly.’ Episodes of ‘Fashion Police’ and ‘E! News’ are always out of date in London. Obviously it’s due to the time change. It affects me the most when it’s the big broadcasts that are important to me.

Do you have any idea what it’s like trying to watch the Super Bowl, Academy Awards or Grammy Awards at 1:00am? Neither do I. That’s because I’ve never been able to stay awake to see them. To be honest, I can’t even remember who played in the Super Bowl this year because no one here talked about it, much less watched it. And, as a Florida State University graduate, you guessed it… I’m sick about not seeing my team play football in the fall!

And, obviously, there’s no Today Show here. 🙁

5. Paper Towels

I bet you are laughing right now. But, it’s true. They’re tough to find in certain places. You can buy paper towels at the grocery store. No problem. But, you can kiss them goodbye in the loo. It’s really rare to find paper towels in a London restroom. Get used to jet drying your hands every where. Meet the Dyson Hand Dryer…

If you’re in a girl in long distance relationship with a Brit, I have a tip for you. Back in the day when I was travelling to London to see Mr. Sunny before we got married, I took stacks of paper towels at JFK airport and put them in my carry-on when flying to London. After an exhausting 7+ hour flight, I always liked to brush my teeth, wash my face and re-apply some make up before Mr. Sunny met me at Arrivals. There are no paper towels in the airport bathrooms. A supply for yourself makes the whole freshening up process faster.

Oh, and once you move here, try to keep a stash of hand cream in your bag. During the winter, the extensive use of those hand dryers can be brutal on your hands.

So, there you have it! I’d love to hear from other US readers who either are moving to London from America, have done it, or are considering it. And, my international and British readers can certainly add some thoughts about their experiences too. Of course, if you shared this post on your social networks, I think we could help a ton of people considering the move as well.

Cheers, Sunny friends!

If you’re visiting London for the the first time (especially the NFL in London Games this Fall), check out my ‘Guide to London for Americans Visiting the First Time!’ Or you can subscribe to Sunny in London weekly 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.

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. Below are my 10 Tips for Applying for a UK Visa (based on my experience and an interview I did with an immigration attorney after the Brexit vote). Also you’ll find the differences between US and UK schools.

March 2, 2017 by: Sunny London

How to Exchange Money for a Trip to London

When you are planning a trip to London, what do you think about first? Chances are you are looking at attractions and shows to see. Next, you are probably researching hotels and restaurants.

One of the last things you probably plan is how to exchange money for a trip to London.

How to Exchange Money: Extra Fees

At the time I am publishing this article and YouTube video, the rate is £1=1.25 on an interbank rate. That’s the lowest possible exchange. You likely wouldn’t get that when swapping money because nothing is free, especially money 😉

This means that whatever company handles your exchange from American dollars to pounds sterling will charge a handling fee. However, some methods are cheaper than others.

How to Exchange Money: Tips for London

This video will give you 10 smart tips on how to approach spending money in London. It lists things you can do before you leave, while you are in London and when your trip ends. Yes, I know that sounds a bit too good to be true. However, I have left Heathrow airport with a refund for purchases in my hands. This VAT video shows you how.

I have received money back when I visited London to see Mr Sunny, before we got married and I moved here.

There is something you must keep in mind as you watch the video. There isn’t one plan that fits all. Some people prefer using cash only so they stick to their budget. Some people like credit cards for rewards programs. I give you tips for exchanging money for all these options below. Well, except Traveler’s Checks. Does anyone even use those anymore?

How to Exchange Money: Video Advice

Please leave your strategies for what you do to save money on exchanging currencies when you travel either in the comments here or on the Sunny News YouTube channel. I love learning about other options to save money while traveling and know that others appreciate the ideas too. You’ll find a great community of travelers on my Sunny News channel, so subscribe if you’d like to join us!

The blog article I wrote last year based on the debit card from Travelex is How To See Four Attractions in One Day in London.

The Sunny News YouTube channel, shares even more advice for things to do and what you’ll need to know about London. This includes safety tips, advice for visiting hidden pubs, and a shopping guide. The blog also has a Guide for Americans Visiting London which is a collection of the top experiences I recommend. You’ll definitely want to bookmark it and visit the Pinterest boards created to help trip planning too.

August 14, 2017 by: Sunny London

British vs American Television Differences

When comparing British vs American television differences, you might jump to some standard stereotypes. After living as an American in London married to a British man for five years, I have enjoyed watching British television and know that I still have much to learn.

I make two to three trips back to Florida a year. It’s funny but I had never thought to write about the differences in television topic until recently.

You must understand though too that some of the differences are non-debatable facts. Other points are my observations based on my experience, and yours can certainly be different.

In the video below, I identify the most popular British vs American television differences. It’s part of my hugely popular UK vs USA series on the Sunny News YouTube channel. Discussions and feedback in the video comments can be quite lively! You’ll find in the comments that people have added many other observations in addition to what I have noticed.

And as always, I extend the invitation to you to add your own thoughts and questions too.

UK vs US: See More!

The Sunny News YouTube channel has a playlist full of videos comparing life in the UK vs USA. Some of the topics include differences on: grocery store and food shopping, schools, cultural exchanges, and choosing a hotel in London. The most popular video is below. And it sure has some interesting comments!

February 7, 2016 by: Sunny London

How to Have the Best International Shipping Company Experience

Are you planning to move overseas? If so, there’s no doubt you want to find the best international shipping company possible. Would you believe the shipping overseas process from the US to UK took me over three years?

Here is a summary of my saga and what you need to know for your move. (Oh, and make sure to see the end of this blog for a discount code for shipping!) (July 2018- Please see end note about discount)

My Timeline:

November 6, 2012- Representatives from a local moving company packed up my belongings from my three bedroom townhouse in New York. Items were held at New York storage facility until UK Fiance Visa approved.
January 9 2013, UK Fiance Visa approved. See separate blog about the nightmare I experienced with this process due to a weather disaster.
February 2013- Decision to keep items in storage until London life settled and we found a flat large enough to accommodate my belongings.
March 2013-January 2014- Wedding postponed due to parent illness.
September 2015- Moved in to London flat that we love.
November 18 2015- UPakWeShip retrieves items from New York storage facility.
December 6, 2015- Items begin trans-Atlantic journey. (I requested they send them a bit later so they wouldn’t arrive in London just before Christmas)
January 28, 2016, UPakWeShip arrived to our North London flat with over 45 boxes of my personal belongings. Delivery time took less than 2 hours.

The Best International Shipping Company Experience: Pre-packing

What I Did:

To make the international move easier, I put all of my furniture from my three bedroom townhouse on Craigslist in the US, with the exception of two cabinets and a wicker chest that I purchased from Pier 1. This is a photograph of the cabinet that I thought would never survive the move because it chips so easily. (It arrived flawless) 🙂

I chose to bring them because I knew they would fit somewhere in a London flat. I contemplated bringing this Queen-size bed because it would be less furniture to buy once settled in London.

Next, my mother helped me pack 30 boxes full of my personal belongings. We documented nearly every item in each box as we packed.

I’ll write separate blogs later on specific household, kitchen, electronic and clothing items I included in these boxes and how I chose them. In summary, everything but glass, odd shaped items and my Gucci, Prada and Michael Kors bags went in to the boxes we purchased from a local storage company.

Clothing I didn’t like anymore or knew I wouldn’t wear in London went to a local consignment shop. However, I packed two full size suitcases and a carry-on suitcase with items I would need during the estimated 6-10 weeks it would take for my shipping from the US to UK.

Tips for You:

Try to bring as little furniture as possible. If you don’t know the exact dimensions and layout of where you will live, you could end up paying to ship furniture that you won’t be able to use (or doesn’t fit) in a new location.
Take the time to list the contents of every box for yourself and put it in a spreadsheet. This helps calculating insurance, organizing your unpacking, and remembering what you shipped internationally. Also, it will help clear your items in Customs faster.
Use the opportunity to offload stuff that is clutter or no longer of value/interest to you.

Best International Shipping Company Experience: Professional Packing

What I Did:

I arranged for a local moving and storage company to handle the remaining parts of packing my belongings. Like a sniper attack, the professional movers in New York packed the items efficiently and with care.

They put glass and china items like a set of 12 Waterford champagne glasses, martini glasses, and giant pasta bowls in Dish Barrels. They packed artwork, an ironing board, handbags, exercise equipment and wooden drying racks in to boxes. Finally, the New York movers also took four plastic bins that I had packed previously.

Tips for You:

Use social networks like Facebook to ask for recommendations for local moving companies with excellent reputations. Make sure you ask if they have climate controlled storage, if there could be the slightest chance your belongings being delayed in starting the international shipping process.
Have the professional movers pack very expensive items, glass or odd shaped things. It’s worth the money for several reasons. Plus, what they pack is insured for damage upon arrival. If you pack a box yourself, there’s little you can do if the items are damaged when you unpack it in your new location.
Pack tissue paper in between all of your clothes. I never imagined my items would be folded for three years. My coats packed with tissue paper looked fine when I removed them from the plastic bins.

Best International Shipping Company Experience: UPakWeShip

What I Did:

Searching for an international shipping company is not easy. To get a quote, I had to complete a page of information which triggered tons of email responses. Then, I would have to wait for a shipping company representative to contact me by phone. Trying to remember which company said what was a nightmare. This stalled my process quite a bit.

Eventually I discovered UPakWeShip online. The company handles overseas shipping from New York or anywhere else in the USA.

They also handle moves to:

– the USA, UK, German, or anywhere else in Europe

– Australia, New Zealand, Canada, South America, Asia and Southeast Asia

If I could summarize the entire experience with them in one word it is: easy.

I was put in touch with Mark Nash, who throughout my entire experience was always very accessible, informative and friendly. He moved from London to the USA himself, so this made my trust in him even greater.

He understood that my items had been in New York for nearly three years and was eager to assist in reuniting me with them. In fact, many times Mark and his employees were ready with information faster than I was during the process.

We discussed my shipping rate for the 2 crates weighing approximately 2100 pounds (272 cubic feet). In addition, I learned about insurance options (which was complicated because I had packed many boxes myself and had professional movers) and the UK Customs clearance process.

Their website says they will ‘get your belongings there safely and save you money.’ True. And True. Mark indicated that it would be cheapest for me to pay for the second floor delivery in my initial check rather than upon arrival. This was one of the many money saving tips he provided me due to his strong experience with international shipping.

For more insight on the moving process, Mark has a free eBook available for download.

Tips for You:

Be sure to thoroughly understand the insurance process before you enter an agreement with a company. Also discuss timing and any potential additional charges that could happen outside of your quote.
Add time that the international shipping company predicts for you because you never know what will happen. My items were held at UK Customs extra time due to the fact they had been in storage for long, and this raised questions. I had to provide additional documentation to account for this. Luckily, Mark and his employees knew exactly what to do to handle the inquiry.

Best International Shipping Company Experience: The Delivery

What I Did:

Prior to the delivery, I gave our flat a good clean. This is the calm before the box storm…

I knew once the boxes arrived it would be chaos for a while.

UPakWeShip showed up exactly within the timeframe they indicated. A team of three guys moved my items quickly in to our flat to the room and place I indicated. The spreadsheet I had of my belongings really facilitated this.

A fourth member of UPakWeShip documented everything with an iPad, including pictures of the process. I also had a camera on deck.

We chose not to have them unpack all the boxes, even though this was available and paid for. Because I knew I would need to wash all my dishes and glasses plus buy cabinets to store them, it seemed silly to have everything unloaded without somewhere to store it.

They did unpack the artwork, furniture and a select number of boxes.

Fortunately, the only item that was affected by the move was one of my storage cabinets. As they unpacked it, one of the four legs was broken. However, this seems to be from the storage company and how it was initially packed. UPakWeShip was quick to take many pictures of the item, as was I. To be honest, with the amount of glass, artwork and other boxes I shipped, I can’t believe this is the only thing that ‘went wrong’ with the process.

Tips for You:

Discuss parking arrangements with the company prior to scheduling your delivery date. In London, you might need to purchase a parking permit for the company in advance.
Try to have at least two people available for the delivery. When I was busy guiding the placement of boxes, my husband assisted with taking pictures and answering other questions the movers had.
If you aren’t going to have the movers unpack items, make sure you have a plan for debris removal. Luckily, my husband was able to take crushed boxes and packing paper to a dump facility in London. That is an additional charge there.

I did receive a discount on my shipment because I planned to write a review on the company and process. It in no way affected my opinion of UPakWeShip. Think about it- if a company destroys your personal belongings- the last thing you would do is hold back the information on the internet! Now, I wish I could just snap my fingers and have all this fit neatly in to our flat 😉

If I ever need anything shipped in the future, there is no doubt in my mind that I will contact the best international shipping company in my opinion. They are also on Twitter and Facebook.

Please know that your own shipping experience could be different based on what you are sending, how you pack it and where you are going.

The Best International Shipping Company Experience: Discount

If you do choose to follow my recommendation for this international shipping company, UPakWeShip is offering Sunny in London readers a discount if you quote my promotional code at the time of your inquiry.

For this code, simply Contact Me. I’ll reply with the promotional code and answer any questions you might have about my experience. Please leave comments you have about your international shipping experience below to help others who are planning to move overseas.

Finally, a huge thank you to Mark and everyone at UPakWeShip for the amazing service. My stuff, after three years of sitting in a warehouse, is finally with me. These are a few shots they took to document the story too…

July 2018- Please note that this discount code has ended. However, I still without a doubt continue to recommend this shipping company.

If you’re planning a move to London, you can subscribe to my YouTube channel too. It shows advice for living in London, as well as event, attraction and things to do guides.

December 12, 2015 by: Sunny London

What to Pack for Florida (if You’re British)

‘Do you know what to pack for Florida?’ I asked my British husband as we prepared for his first trip to my home state.

‘Pants and socks’ is his response.

Yikes!

Packing for a trip to Florida is never tough for me. No matter how long I live in London as an American expat, I always know what to pack when I make a trip to my home state, no matter what time of year it is.

However, when my British husband and I were days away from our first trip to Florida together, I realised I was at a huge advantage compared to him. While he travelled the world as an international cameraman for NBC News, he neither had an assignment in nor made a personal trip to the Sunshine State.

His response to my question about what to pack for Florida was both humorous and concerning.

I give him credit for the reasoning, ‘It’s just not stuff I want to have to deal with buying there.’ However, there are other essentials that he might not want to buy, or even have access to, once we arrive in Florida.

To figure out what to pack for Florida if you’re British and going there for holiday, start with all your typical warm weather basics. Then, make sure you add all the items below to your pre-trip shopping list.

What to Pack for Florida: Bug Repellant

Florida is crawling with bugs (and reptiles, but there’s not a damn thing you can do about that in terms of what to pack). Whether they are mosquitoes, love bugs or ‘no see ’ems’, the little suckers are everywhere.

Bring bug repellant in your suitcase. Don’t wait until it’s too late and ruin your holiday with welts the size of Florida oranges on your body.

I was thrilled when I found Avon Skin So Soft

on Amazon UK

as I searched bug repellant to write this blog post.

Why?

This is the brand everyone in Florida uses. It’s the most recommended product from Florida natives. Trust me!

And, just in case you don’t believe me, I took this picture of the screen of my mother’s porch when I was in Florida last August. Notice all the critters?

What to Pack for Florida: Suntan Lotion

This is where the Sunny in London blog will get painful. I’m going to be really honest here. Don’t get on a plane to Florida without suntan lotion if you’re British! Florida sun is powerful and intense.

If you’re an Englishman, like my husband, you don’t tan. Instead you get super red, super fast if you even look outside on a sunny day. On our beaches, we Floridians can spot you (and you’re white legs) from miles away.

When I worked at Universal Studios Orlando prior to moving to London, I regularly met burned British tourists. Those that spent their first day of holiday at Walt Disney World, then went to our theme park, hit the hot list. If they skipped suntan lotion in this two-day combo and ‘enjoyed’ our Jaws ride seated on the outside row of the boat, they were seared.

Ok, not like literally in the lawsuit sense. But, because there is an amount of heat generated from the ‘explosions’ on the ride, they experience great discomfort during those moments and don’t enjoy their visit as much. I would chat with them in Guest Services/VIP Studio Tours often and they always regretted not applying suntan lotion multiple times during their theme park visits.

What product does this Florida girl recommend? Anything from Hawaiian Tropic.

Why? The brand originated in my home town, Daytona Beach. So, it’s about loyalty. The company obviously knows about Florida sun and how to cope with it.

The one above is really cheap and features Protective Sun Lotion 50 Plus

. Don’t mess around. Start with an SPF 50. You’ll thank me later. Profusely.

What to Pack for Florida: Drugs

You don’t want to take time to weed out what to buy when you’re in trouble. Make sure you throw some Paracetamol in your carry on suitcase. We don’t have the brand in the US. Our equivalent, I guess, is Tylenol or Aleve. As an American expat living in London, I never buy Paracetamol because it doesn’t work for me. You might experience the same phenomenon with American products when you visit, so pack what you know.

Further, if you’re being tossed around a lot on our theme park rides, you might need some motion sickness tablets. Or you can pick up some of these before you leave…

Again, these Travel Sickness Bands

were super cheap when I searched them, and listed as a #1 Best Seller. 😉

What to Pack for Florida: Beach and Pool Gear

There is no doubt you’ll want to hit at least one of our countless beaches when you are in Florida. Make sure you have these items ready for your beach trip:

Hats

Bring at least one, especially if you’re a bloke who’s losing his hair. In America, we rock baseball caps, so if you want to look like a Yank, this is what you should wear. You can do this one of two ways. If you want to look British and get attention that way, bring one of these…

Any baseball cap with an English futbol team will catch attention across the pond.

However, if you want to look ‘American’ and really blend in with the Florida crackers, then you must wear a Florida State University (FSU) baseball cap that recognises them as the 2013 BCS National Football Champions.

Ick!

I found a wide range of Florida State University baseball caps online, if you’d rather have one that’s Garnet and Gold (the team’s colours). Oh yeah, it’s also where I received my Bachelor of Science degree, so I’m naturally biased here too.

Sunglasses

Florida winter days are much longer than England’s. If you visit during this season, you’ll have far more time to wear them compared to being in London where it gets dark at 4:00pm. Although, it generally gets dark in the summer around 8pm.

Swimwear for Kids

Inflatable Armbands (In Florida we call them ‘swimmies’ or ‘floogles’). Bring these for your babies who are too little (or don’t know how) to swim on their own.

They’re also a great way to prevent anything tragic happening while you aren’t looking at the pool. Both my younger sister and I had them as kids.

A Beach Cooler for Beer

Specifically for packing purposes, you should bring an Inflatable Beach Cooler. You will need one to keep your beer cool in the Florida heat. These are the ones I think Floridians would love seeing on our Florida beaches and pool decks:

However, I think the ultimate kick arse cooler is this Party Sombrero

. Florida has a huge population of Mexican people, so this would be brilliant on the beach with your Dos Equis or Corona beer!

Multiple Suits

Bring at least two bathing suits (or ‘bathing costumes’ as you call them). There’s nothing worse than putting one of these things on wet, so bring two with you. One can dry on a day while you wear the other.

What to Pack for Florida: Apparel

Florida humidity is excruciating in the months of May-September, even at 6:00am. Be sure to pack lightweight clothes to wear. Don’t even put jeans in your suitcase during those months.

Regarding shoes, flip flops are part of our lifestyle. We literally value them like art.

Bring a pair to match every one of your outfits. You could even have some Custom Slide Sandals made especially for the trip so you will be able to identify yours easily on the beach or poolside. Just make sure to put suntan lotion on the tops of your feet too! It’s a painful place to be burned and often is forgotten in application. Bring some smart clothes in case you decide to visit a nice restaurant, but make sure you have plenty of shorts and cool clothes!

What NOT to Pack for Florida: A Speedo

I couldn’t end this blog post with integrity if I didn’t include the ONE thing you absolutely CANNOT pack for Florida, boys.

I beg you. Please, please, please don’t show up to my home state beaches and pools in one of these! The banana hammock just isn’t something Floridians want to see. EVER!

What to Pack for Florida: Final Thoughts

There you have it! It’s a good thing Mr. Sunny (my husband) has me to guide him through what to pack for Florida, so he doesn’t end up with just ‘pants and socks’ in his suitcase. Oh, and for you American readers, by ‘pants’, he means underwear.

If you are British and know people who are or want to have a holiday in Florida, please share this blog post on Facebook, Twitter, StumbleUpon or any social network you value. It would be great if you pinned the picture below too so your British mates have a better chance at a sunny, happy holiday in Florida.

Update: And don’t miss this YouTube video published in August 2018 with even more travel tips!

If there’s anything you can suggest to add to the list, please do so in the comments! I’m eager to answer any Florida questions you may have as well. Don’t forget the blog has tons of expat living and Things to Do in London posts, as well as a Guide for Visitors.

The English Love Their Tea

English People Have Bad Teeth

Everyone Has Met the Queen

The English Live for Football and Beer

The English are Polite

Final Thoughts:

An American Expat Shopping List:

Michael Kors.

Kate Spade.

Yankee Candles.

A British Expat Shopping List:

Expat Shopping List: Final Thoughts

1. Tips for an American in London- Fah-get a bout it!

2. Tips for an American in London- Turning Tricks

3. Tips for an American in London- Niagara Falls

4. Tips for an American in London- Your CV will be Bagged!

5. Tips for an American in London- You’re getting POUNDED!

A Question from an American in London-

1. Super Stores

2. Drive-thru Coffee Shops

3. Shopping in Malls

4. Television Shows

5. Paper Towels

How to Exchange Money: Extra Fees

How to Exchange Money: Tips for London

How to Exchange Money: Video Advice

UK vs US: See More!

My Timeline:

The Best International Shipping Company Experience: Pre-packing

What I Did:

Tips for You:

Best International Shipping Company Experience: Professional Packing

What I Did:

Tips for You:

Best International Shipping Company Experience: UPakWeShip

What I Did:

Tips for You:

Best International Shipping Company Experience: The Delivery

What I Did:

Tips for You:

The Best International Shipping Company Experience: Discount

What to Pack for Florida: Bug Repellant

What to Pack for Florida: Suntan Lotion

What to Pack for Florida: Drugs

What to Pack for Florida: Beach and Pool Gear

Hats

Sunglasses

Swimwear for Kids

A Beach Cooler for Beer

Multiple Suits

What to Pack for Florida: Apparel

What NOT to Pack for Florida: A Speedo

What to Pack for Florida: Final Thoughts

THE ESSENTIAL 1st TIME GUIDE TO LONDON

HARRY POTTER

PUBS IN LONDON