London

The London Underground is considered one of the very best transit systems in all of Europe—and you’ll see why after your first ride. Consisting of 11 lines and serving 272 stations, the Tube provides transportation to nearly 5 million passenger journeys daily. The Tube extends from Zone 1 out to Zone 9, covering nearly every corner of the city. Each line has its own name and identifying color that you will quickly come to learn as you map out your daily commute. Extending the Tube’s expansive reach are the London Overground, Docklands Light Railway, and the Elizabeth line, all of which help you carry out your journey.  

It can get quite crowded on the Underground, especially during rush hour, but fortunately, the Tube is not your only transportation option. London has an extensive bus system that covers 675 routes across the city. Bus rides can sometimes be quicker than taking the Tube, and also comes with views of the city, as you are riding above ground (and sometimes, on the second story of a double-decker bus). Prepare to embrace this style of commuting, as you’ll find cars are not a common commodity in London! 

The British speak English, but you’ll find you run into language barriers during your time in London. Since the arrival of the English language to the Americas during Britain’s colonization, differences in speech and spelling began to arise. First, spelling began to differentiate because at the time an established dictionary had not been created. The American and British dictionaries were compiled by different lexicographers, resulting in different spellings. Next, speech began to evolve to differentiate classes. Settlers pronounced the ‘r’ sounds in words, while the higher class back in England relaxed the ‘r’ sound, thus beginning the divide between American and British English.  

Upon your arrival in London, you may notice some immediate differences, such as your apartment being referred to as a “flat, waiting in line is “queuing”, and CAPA staff will be on “holiday” and not a vacation. British English can also be more formal, using words such as “shall” and “moreover”. British English speakers and American English speakers also differentiate in their delivery of the language. You may find that the direct, and sometimes blunt, communication style used in the U.S. is in stark contrast to the indirect and reserved delivery in the UK. Despite speaking English, it’s not uncommon to feel like you must navigate a new language while in London.  

The Pound sterling (or GBP) is the official currency of the United Kingdom. The Pound continues to have a more favorable exchange rate on the US dollar, meaning your money in the U.S. is worth less in the UK. This is important to consider as your prep to go to London and build your budget.  

Learn the slang! You’ll likely hear the pound referred to as “quid” and coins are “pence” (or “p”), not cents. You may want to purchase a wallet with a change pouch, as you’ll get £1’s and £2’s back in the form of coins, not bills!