10 Things That Instantly Give Away an English Tourist
10 Things That Instantly Give Away an English Tourist
Spotting an English tourist isn’t usually a tough task, especially if you know what to look for. From their unique fashion choices to their distinct habits, there are certain things they do that stand out when they’re abroad. Let’s have a laugh and look at some of the dead giveaways you’re looking at an English tourist.
1. Wearing Flip-Flops in the Rain
One of the funniest sights you might catch is an English tourist wearing flip-flops in the rain. You see, back in England, rain is so common that it hardly stops anyone from enjoying the day. So, don’t be surprised if you see an English tourist strolling through a downpour in flip-flops, acting as if it’s just another sunny day!
2. Burning in the Sun Within an Hour
English tourists often stand out on sunny beaches – and not in a good way. Their skin isn’t used to the strong sun in many holiday destinations. Despite this, many forget to slap on enough suncream and end up looking like lobsters after just an hour in the sun!
3. Ordering “a cuppa” abroad
Nothing says British like asking for a “cuppa” at a foreign café. It’s their way of asking for a cup of tea, a staple in British households. Even abroad, English tourists hunt for that comforting taste of home, though they often end up explaining what they mean by “a cuppa” to confused waiters.
4. Saying “cheers” to waiters
In England, saying “cheers” is as common as saying thank you. So, it’s no surprise that English tourists often use it everywhere they go, whether they’re at a restaurant, bar, or even buying a bus ticket. It’s their universal way of showing appreciation.
5. Overusing the word “lovely”
If you hear someone repeatedly describing things as “lovely,” there’s a good chance they’re from England. This word is a go-to adjective for many English folks when they’re enjoying their travels, from a lovely view to a lovely cup of coffee.
6. Asking where the nearest Tesco is
For an English tourist, finding a Tesco abroad would be like finding a piece of home. That’s why some of them might ask for the nearest Tesco, even in places where Tesco doesn’t exist. It’s their comfort zone for shopping, even when they’re thousands of miles away from home.
7. Speaking too quietly in busy places
English tourists are often not the loudest in the crowd. They tend to speak in polite, hushed tones, even in bustling markets or busy streets where being a bit louder might help. This often leads to some unintentional miming and repeating themselves to locals.
8. Bringing their own tea bags
An English tourist without their own tea bags? Unthinkable! Many English travelers bring a stash of tea bags from home just to make sure they can have their beloved brew exactly how they like it, no matter where in the world they are.
9. Wearing socks with sandals (unironically)
It might be a fashion faux pas elsewhere, but wearing socks with sandals is something English tourists are notoriously unapologetic about. It’s practical for varying climates and, honestly, they just don’t care about the fashion police while on vacation.
10. Queuing where there is no queue
If you see someone standing in line where there’s no apparent reason to do so, you’ve likely spotted an English tourist. Queuing is deeply ingrained in British culture; they form orderly lines even when it’s not necessary, bringing a bit of British order wherever they go.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.
With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.