Week 4 of London: Oh you fancy, huh?

There are a few phrases that the Brits use that I like, such as ‘mate’, referring to a friend, ‘cheers’ to say goodbye, and the not so appropriate but funny to say ‘wanker’. But my favorite is ‘fancy’. Fancy replaces like, or agree in conversation. If I wanted a particular sandwich, I would say, “I fancy this sandwich”. It’s the term of actually picked up the most and have used subconsciously, so its pretty natural to use a this point.

The best way to meet locals is either at a pub at night or striking up a conversation on a bus. Because our classes are scheduled right in the middle of the day, it is often hard to socialize and meet new people except for lunch. Most often we introduce ourselves to a few people at a pub and discuss what our journey has been like so far. Most local are very interested in speaking to Americans, and it helps that with our accents people instantly know we’re American, (although some have asked if we are Canadian.) The people in London are so friendly that one should not be nervous approaching someone and starting a simple conversation. Even on the bus people are eager to talk and give tips about spots to see, food, and British life in general.

I haven’t bought too many souvenirs from London, but the most interesting thing I’ve bought so far has been Sheppard’s pie. Usually filled with steak, these pies are a common meal in London typically served at a pub or small café. They look just like pies on the outside except are filled with different types of me. Now at first I thought that was pretty gross, but after a few bites it almost reminded me of a hamburger.

Adjusting the British pounds as been somewhat difficult. Because the dollar is weaker than the pound, meals are more expensive than they appear even if the monetary unit per item is the same. That makes eating out and nightlife very expensive in London. If possible I try to cook as much as I can back at home, but with limited time that’s hard to do. What is different than in the states is that coins have a lot more value and are of a larger variety. A single pound is a gold coin, and two pound, (worth about $3.50,) is the size of a half dollar. After that, there are about ten other coins ranging value from .01 Pounds to .5 pounds. Thus, my wallet is a lot heavy here than back home, and I always have to remind myself to use my coins as quickly as possible without my back pocket overflowing.