I LOVE ENGLAND – WHAT TO LOVE ABOUT ENGLAND
Yes, I love England. Actually, it is one of my favorite places in Europe. I wish I could drive on the left side, so I could finally go on the road trip and travel with my dog and discover the country on my own (this is seriously a bucket list thing for me).
Until I feel comfortable enough driving on the left I will travel by train or plane in this lovely country (p.s. I also visited Wales and Scotland and absolutely loved them and yet have to visit Ireland and Northern Ireland).
Find out why I love England, as always there are several reasons to fall in love with the island, but there are also a few things I dislike. But let´s start with the positive things. I love England because:
- England has beautiful scenery. Though it might not keep up with countries, it is pretty nice to view the ocean in places like Eastbourne (read about some beautiful places to visit near London).
2) Small and cute towns like Canterbury, Chester, and Hastings have their own charm.
3) England is full of history. Old castles and churches can fascinate even those who are not interested in history.
4) England is the country with one of the friendliest inhabitants I can imagine. I remember so many situations. I was standing in England’s streets feeling lost and being approached by English people asking if I needed help. Also, I love saying and hearing “thank you” and “please” 🙂
5) England is a real melting pot (though probably not in the very rural areas) where all cultures and religions can be found. Nobody cares if you wear your Indian dress, wear your traditional African clothes, or don’t wear much at all. I haven’t experienced that kind of multiculturalism in Germany or other European countries.
6) Compared to other (Western) European countries, England offers good value for money. Though it isn’t as cheap as in Eastern European countries, it still doesn’t eat into your budget (I say that as a German). Okay, London is surely an exception, but overall, it is not as expensive as countries in Northern Europe or Central Europe. Plus, many activities can be done for free (check out my London on a budget guide).
6) I love England´s big cities, like Manchester, Birmingham, and Liverpool (as a “water” person I am especially attracted to Liverpool with its big harbor). Check out my post with the most beautiful places in England.
7) English is spoken 🙂 British English is spoken. The accent is appealing, and after all, this is real English.
9) England borders many beautiful places like Wales, Scotland, France (kind of), etc. I always appreciate countries that border other countries and allow a quick get-a-away. Even though England (or the UK) isn’t an EU member anymore, I hope – and I am sure – border crossing will still be quite smooth. Actually, I think you can easily combine a trip to Paris and London.
And if it isn’t, it is definitely still very easy to travel within the UK (that has tons to offer).
10) Last but not least: England “has” London <3 London does not require many words. It is just beautiful, fun, and interesting, so make sure to add it to your England itinerary (read my tips for things to do in London on a budget).
Still not convinced? Then read about the beautiful places in London – or check out my 7-day England itinerary.
WHY I DO NOT LOVE ENGLAND
What didn’t I really like in England? Well, not much! But there are actually a few things I disliked and also one thing that leaves me, at least, a little speechless.
- They speak British English. Though this accent sounds really nice, it sometimes is hard to understand.
- They drive on the left side. I would love to do a road trip, but since I get confused with left and right, this has actually stopped me from driving a car by myself.
- Drinking, as cliche as it might sound now, is really big in England. The older I got, the more I disliked the amount of alcohol consumed in England.
I don´t want to say I disliked it, but I wonder when I see English women dressed. No matter how cold it is, English people will make you feel like you are in the Caribbean.
As a German, wearing a warm winter jacket in winter, I always stood out in the crowd. This is something I might never understand, and explanations are very welcome 🙂
Who is also such an England fan as I am? Leave your comment and tell us about your England experiences.
If this post has convinced you to move to England 🙂 read an expat guide on moving to the UK.
If you want to find out about another country in the north, read the post about Ireland, or read about the UK’s top three travel destinations.