How to Fit in When Visiting London

Traveling to London can be a lot of fun, but it can also be awkward if you don't plan ahead properly. American tourists are known throughout the UK as being rude and annoying, which isn't the image you want to portray. Here are some tricks to help you fit in while visiting London. In no time, you'll be laughing at the silly Americans gawking and pointing at the tourist attractions.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Check your attitude. No matter how jet-lagged you become, you have no excuse to be rude. You're a visitor in the country, and should be respectful to everyone at all times. Say "please" and "thank you" and don't complain when something doesn't go the way you expect it to. You're likely to order the wrong thing at dinner, but there's no point in making the waiter's life miserable because you don't understand the menu.
2. Dress the part. Nothing screams "tourist" like shorts and a huge camera around your neck. Blend in with the locals by keeping things low-key. Both men and women can wear casual jeans and sneakers. Sweaters and casual tops are also acceptable, and will get you in just about everywhere.
3. Learn some of the lingo. If you want to fit in while visiting London, you need to learn some of the most common slang terms. For instance, the bathroom is often called the "loo" and the subway is known to locals as the "tube." If you don't understand someone's accent, simply say "Sorry?" or "Pardon me?" and ask him to repeat himself.
4. Travel right. You should always have a map and a basic understanding of where you're going. If you need a ride, take the London Underground subway system or hail a black cab.
5. Go where the locals go. There are plenty of tourist attractions to see in London, but if you really want to experience the city, ask locals where they would recommend you dine for dinner. You'll find some hidden gems that aren't in the tourism guides.

Tips & Warnings

• Never, under any circumstances, pretend to speak with an English accent. This will get you locked in the loo for sure.