After living in London for several months, I feel qualified to analyze various assumptions about Britain and its people - at least, enough to confirm or reject some widely-held stereotypes.\nMany questions I received during my stay regarded drinking and fast food, probably because I'm in college and have friends who are also in college. Go figure.
"I know their food sucks. Please tell me about that, Alex."
Sure thing, Lloyd. It's not so much that everything tastes bad; it's just that a lot of stuff is really bland. The fact that mayonnaise is the condiment of choice says a lot. Condiments are also rationed. I would probably call someone a liar if they told me McDonald's gave them more than two packets of ketchup. The best example verifying the culinary stereotype are the absolutely heinous pre-packed triangle sandwiches, which are everywhere. They often look very appetizing and delicious but are not. Somehow the makers have found a way to suck all flavors from natural ingredients.
"Do people drink tea and eat crumpets all the time, like when they're not eating fish and chips and drinking grog?"
There are a lot of people who drink tea regularly, usually with cream - but not constantly. I don't know what crumpets are.
"I heard they serve beer in McDonald's. Is that true, man?"
Not in England, they don't. Go to Spain to get booze with your Chicken McNuggets.
"Word on the street is they serve beer warm. What's up with that? That's gross."
You're right. That is gross, but no worries. Your drink will come served at the chilled temperature you know and love.
"Do the English like to drink as much as everyone says?"
Yes.
A few people wanted to know about the people themselves and in particular how they look.
"Yo, Alex, does everyone in England have bad teeth?"
Not everyone, but there is an element of truth to the stereotype. As much as I would like to say it is a nation filled with smiles
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