English Traditions
One of the advantages of traveling is the opportunity to experience new cultures, new foods and new sensations. Some inexperienced travelers are frustrated that they don't find things just as they were "back home", but those who have traveled broadly have generally learned to anticipate these new opportunities with excitement. American visitors to London will quickly learn that although the language is (technically) the same, there are some differences to be observed. Some of these customs are more important than others, of course. For example, it is a well-known fact that cars in Britain drive on the left. That is important to remember even if you aren't driving. Remember to look to your RIGHT before crossing the street!

Another tradition which is completely unknown in the US is tea time. No longer practiced with the same rigor as in years gone by, the afternoon tea is intended as a "snack" to help you survive until dinner, which is customarily served later in the evening in the UK than it is in the US. Tea consists of more than the beverage. Generally accompanied by light sandwiches or small pastries, tea is served around 4:00 in the afternoon. Most of the better hotels offer tea service, as do many restaurants and cafes. High Tea is served later (between 5:00 and 8:00) and generally takes the place of the evening meal.