Cultural Differences

*Note: This was actually written this morning!

While I’m currently sitting in my 6 hour class on Northern Irish Politics, I thought I’d put my time to some good use and write another blog post!

Like I mentioned in my last post, now that we have fallen into the routine of classes, we haven’t been bound for adventures every other day. However, I’d like to dedicate this post to explain some differences between American and Northern Irish culture for you folks back home!

1. The first difference I’d like to point out is something that sticks out like a sore thumb while I’m writing in my British notepad on top of my American notebook: Their standard sheet size for paper is longer. For someone who likes to have things align perfectly, this drives me crazy to have ¼ of an inch of paper hanging out of my American folder.

2. Get the whole idea that ‘Merica has the strongest currency out of your head; The exchange rate between the British Pound Sterling and the American Dollar is roughly £1=$1.58. It’s even stronger than the Euro, which is approx. £1= €1.19

3. Even though English is the main language here (with Gaelic Revivalists), there is still a barrier when it comes to US terms vs. UK terms. Some examples:

            - Fries are “chips” and chips are “crisps.”

            - If you’re talking about your pants, say “jeans” or “trousers,” because “pants” here mean you’re talking about your undies!

4. Alcohol is really cheap – sometimes even cheaper than water. Also in restaurants, generally there aren’t free refills and they don’t serve tap water, it’s all bottled.

5. On the topic of drinks, everyone drinks tea. This is delightful in my case since I’m an addict, but most people are disgusted at the thought of iced tea. Also, the Irish do not know how to make good coffee. It’s all either instant or French pressed. I love tea, but one thing I’m looking forward to in December is to be able to sling back some of that good ol’ American coffee.

6. Swearing is acceptable. It’s used in casual conversation. People usually don’t get offended if you drop a few F-bombs here and there. It’s a thing.

7. Nutella is WAY cheaper over here. Seriously, America. Get on it.

8. I CAN’T ESCAPE MILEY CYRUS.

And that’s just a few of the more minor cultural differences I’ve experienced so far!