10 Things That Are Instant Giveaway You’re Not From London

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10 Things That Are Instant Giveaway You’re Not From London

If you’ve ever visited London or thought about moving there, there are certain things that instantly show you’re not a local. From the way you speak to how you act in public, locals can spot a newcomer from a mile away. Let’s take a fun look at ten classic signs that scream, “I’m not from around here!”

1. Saying “the subway” instead of the Tube

In London, if you refer to the underground train system as “the subway,” locals will instantly know you’re not from around. For Londoners, it’s always the “Tube.” The Tube is an iconic part of the city, and calling it anything else just sounds off to the ears of a Londoner. So next time, make sure you get it right to blend in better!

2. Standing on the wrong side of the escalator

When using escalators in London, there’s an unspoken rule: stand on the right, walk on the left. Tourists often miss this and stand on the left, blocking busy Londoners trying to pass. It’s a quick way to get tutted at or to receive a polite yet firm request to move over.

3. Calling it “downtown”

London doesn’t really have a “downtown” as many American cities do. If you talk about going downtown, locals will be a bit confused. London is split into areas like “The City,” “West End,” and other district names. It’s more about the neighborhoods here, not a singular downtown area.

4. Not tapping out at a Tube station and getting charged a fortune

In London’s Tube system, you must tap in and tap out with an Oyster card or a contactless payment card. Forgetting to tap out can result in being charged the maximum fare for your journey. Watching someone forget this is a clear sign they’re not a regular commuter.

5. Looking surprised at the price of a pint

Yes, drinking in London can be pretty expensive, especially if you’re from a place where prices are lower. A tourist’s wide-eyed reaction at hearing how much a pint costs is a dead giveaway they’re not from London. Locals are painfully aware and have just learned to live with it.

6. Asking someone for directions and expecting them to stop

Londoners are generally in a rush and not used to stopping to give directions. If you ask someone for help and expect them to halt their busy day to assist you, it might not go as planned. It’s better to ask at a shop or use your phone’s map.

7. Expecting eye contact and small talk from strangers

In London, people value their personal space, especially in public transport. Trying to make eye contact or small talk on a bus or the Tube might not get the friendly response you’re hoping for. It’s usually headphones in, eyes down.

8. Waiting to cross the road instead of dodging traffic

Locals tend to jaywalk or cross streets confidently, dodging cars with ease, while newcomers might wait for the green light at pedestrian crossings. It’s all about timing and confidence – something that Londoners have mastered over time.

9. Acting shocked that it takes an hour to get anywhere

London is a huge city, and traveling from one part to another can easily take an hour or more. Newcomers often underestimate travel times and are surprised by how long it takes to get around. Regular Londoners are just used to the commute.

10. Gasping at rent prices out loud

Lastly, the high cost of living in London isn’t news to its residents, but it can be quite shocking to outsiders. If you’re heard gasping over rental prices, you’ll definitely stand out as someone who’s new to the city’s financial realities.