As much as the British enjoy meeting people from across the pond, there are a few things that tend to get under their skin. Here’s a list of 18 things Brits secretly hate about American tourists. Keep these in mind on your next trip to avoid any unintentional faux pas.
Tipping Too Much
CNBC explains that, in the U.S., “Leaving a gratuity for your waiter at a restaurant has long been standard practice,” but it’s less the case in the UK, where service charges are often included, and tipping is more reserved. When Americans leave large tips, it can be seen as ostentatious and even embarrassing. A good rule of thumb is to check the bill first and leave a modest tip.
Over-the-Top Enthusiasm
Americans are known for their enthusiasm, but sometimes it can come off as a bit much. Brits appreciate a more subdued approach and can find the exuberant expressions of joy and excitement a bit overwhelming. Whether it’s loudly expressing amazement at old buildings or being overly animated in public, it’s often seen as unnecessary and a little grating.
Loud Voices
Speaking of loud, the volume of American tourists is a frequent gripe, as the British are typically more reserved and speak softly in public places. When Americans come through with their booming voices, it can disrupt the peace and tranquillity Brits cherish.
Misunderstanding British Humour
British humour is dry, sarcastic, and often self-deprecating, which can be confusing for American tourists used to more straightforward jokes. When Americans don’t get the joke or take it too seriously, it can lead to awkward moments; instead, appreciating and even attempting to engage with the local humour can make interactions smoother.
Complaining About the Weather
Yes, the British weather can be dreary, but it’s a favourite topic of conversation for Brits who have perfected the art of grumbling about it themselves. When Americans complain about the rain or the cold, it can come off as whining. Brits are used to it and often see these comments as unnecessary.
Asking About the Queen
The monarchy is a complex topic, because while some Brits are proud of their heritage, others are indifferent or even critical of it. Constantly asking about the Queen or other members of the royal family can feel invasive and annoying, so it’s better to steer conversations towards more neutral topics unless the local brings it up first.
Assuming Everyone Knows Each Other
The UK might be smaller than the US, but it’s still a large country, therefore assuming that everyone knows everyone else, or expecting locals to know obscure towns and villages, is frustrating. Each area has its own unique culture and history, and Brits often find it amusing—and slightly irritating—when Americans oversimplify this.
Comparing Everything to America
It’s natural to draw comparisons when travelling, but constantly stating how things are “back home” can be tiresome. English people take pride in their unique culture and history, and hearing about how everything is bigger, better, or just different in America can feel like a slight.
Being Overly Friendly
Americans are often more open and friendly than Brits, who can be reserved and private, and striking up conversations with strangers or being overly familiar can make Brits uncomfortable. It’s not that they are unfriendly; they just prefer to keep to themselves more.
Not Understanding Tea Culture
Tea is more than just a drink in the UK; it’s a way of life. Misunderstanding the significance of tea breaks, how to properly make a cup of tea, or dismissing tea altogether can be a faux pas, while appreciating and participating in tea culture can endear you to locals and show respect for their traditions.
Overusing Slang
Trying to fit in by using British slang can be tricky because it’s easy to misuse words or phrases, leading to confusion or laughter. Brits might appreciate the effort, but overdoing it can seem forced and inauthentic. It’s best to use your own vocabulary and let conversations flow naturally.
Poor Queue Etiquette
People in the UK are famous for their orderly queuing, so jumping the queue, not understanding where it starts, or being impatient can irritate locals. It’s important to respect the unspoken rules of queuing, such as keeping a polite distance and waiting your turn without fuss.
Ignoring Personal Space
In the United Kingdom, personal space is valued highly, which is why standing too close, hugging strangers, or being too touchy-feely can make Brits uncomfortable. They prefer to maintain a respectful distance, especially with people they don’t know well, and being mindful of this can help you with social interactions.
Mispronouncing Place Names
British place names can be tricky, with pronunciations that don’t always match the spelling. Mispronouncing names like “Leicester” or “Worcestershire” can make you stand out, while taking the time to learn how to say key place names correctly shows respect (and can save you from some embarrassment).
Dressing Too Casually
While Americans are known for their casual style, Brits tend to dress more formally, especially in cities like London, so wearing gym clothes or overly casual outfits can make you stick out. Opting for a slightly more polished look can help you blend in and be seen more favourably by locals.
Being Impatient
Life in the UK can move at a slower pace than in the US. Being impatient, whether it’s rushing through a meal, expecting quick service, or being hasty in conversations, can come off as rude. Embracing the slower pace and taking time to enjoy the moment can make your visit more enjoyable for everyone.
Disregarding Local Customs
Every region has its own customs and traditions, and if you’re ignoring or dismissing these, whether it’s not understanding pub etiquette or being oblivious to local holidays, it can be seen as disrespectful. Taking the time to learn and observe local customs shows you value and appreciate the culture.
Expecting Non-Stop Service
The UK has different service standards and hours compared to the US, therefore expecting stores to be open late, 24/7 customer service, or immediate responses can lead to disappointment. Understanding and adjusting to these differences can help you manage expectations and enjoy your stay more fully.
