When you think of the UK, you’ll most likely envision London, its capital. After all, this magnificent city manages to merge history and modernity in a way few others can, holding within itself both iconic landmarks and a bustling nightlife. However, as a first-time visitor, there are some things that you’ll find surprising. If you’re curious to learn more – make sure to keep reading.
Fruit Machines in Non-Casino Establishments
One of the first quirks you’ll notice is the surprising number of fruit machines located in seemingly unrelated establishments. As you walk through the city and pop into somewhere for a bite or a refreshing drink, you’ll notice these machines everywhere. This level of accessibility can be comparable to the online version of fruit machines, and in this modern era, these physical devices have to compete against their digital counterparts found on platforms like King Casino. If you’re not familiar with such websites, they typically offer a wide range of games and slots, like Ancient Disco and Fishin Frenzy.
English Tea
While English tea sounds like a simple enough beverage, made out of black tea, water, milk, and sugar, it is anything but that. One thing you’ll notice is that if any step, including how you choose to boil your water, strays away from the norm, you might as well be declaring war. So, while in London, we’d recommend sticking to drinking it, rather than making it, especially if you’re from somewhere like the US and haven’t partaken in this tea-drinking ritual since childhood.
Cultural Diversity
If you come to London, the first thing that will hit you is how incredibly diverse it is. In fact, The Independent has crowned it as the most inclusive city in Europe. Here, you’ll find people from all over the world, which can be attributed to the UK’s history. From one corner of London to the other, it can’t go unnoticed that it’s a unique melting pot that blends a whole host of different traditions.
The Obsession with the Weather
Small talk is a big thing in the UK, especially in a bustling city like London, and this can be attributed to a myriad of things, including the well-known politeness of its citizens. However, one subject rises above all the rest, and it’s discussions about the weather. Regardless of where you venture off to in London, whether it is raining or sunny, you’ll notice people discuss the day’s forecast with unexpected gusto. This is due to how unpredictable the weather is in the city, where one second you could be basking in the sunlight and the next running off for shelter from the rain.
The Royal Family
Arguably the best-known landmark in London, after Big Ben and the London Eye, is Buckingham Palace. This is not surprising as it has been the royal family’s official London residence since 1837. Their presence has had a major impact on the culture of the city and is woven into its identity. While the royal family has been embroiled in its fair share of controversies, you’ll encounter plenty of royalists who support them with fervour.
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There’s no city in the world quite like London, filled with quirky aspects and delightful surprises. So, if you’re visiting, make sure to take it all in as much as you can, you never know when your next chance will be.