10 British “Everyday” Things Americans Think Are Straight-Up Luxury
Americans are famous for romanticising the UK. There’s the inviting allure of deep history and meaningful tradition, the accents, castles nearly everywhere you look and the most charming shops where you can find the most uniquely beautiful items. But there’s also everyday stuff that Americans lust after. The UK is full of easy conveniences and comforts that feel luxurious to anyone used to American chaos. From affordable mobile plans to free ATM withdrawals, “normal” for the UK often feels like a lavish experience to Americans. We’re not talking about big, flashy touristy things either. There are little things that make the day smoother, cosier and something others envy. Here are 10 British “everyday” things that Americans feel are the pinnacle of luxury.
1. Affordable Mobile Phone Plans
One thing that Americans are always surprised by is how affordable British mobile phone plans are. You can get a SIM only deal for £5, whereas in the States families are coughing up anywhere from $150 to $160 per month. The British enjoy unlimited data for just a fraction of the price as Americans. Staying connected in the UK doesn’t drain your bank account, and Americans see that as straight-up luxury.
2. Integrated Recycling & Food Waste Bins
The way the British recycle feels like extravagance for Americans who are used to their disorganised ways. In the US, only about 43% of households recycle, while 73% have access to a recycling programme. In contrast, an estimated 90% of UK households recycle regularly. Americans have to try to understand strange, confusing rules for their recycling programmes, whereas Brits are straightforward and easy to grasp.
3. Free ATM Withdrawals Almost Everywhere
The majority of ATMs are free in the UK and that feels like extravagance and luxury to Americans. Americans are often charged by both the bank and the ATM owner to be able to withdraw funds. The fee could be anywhere from $3 to $6 every time you try to take your money out. Being able to withdraw your money without paying a fee feels top-tier to Americans.
4. Impressive Water Pressure
Americans are always surprised when they find that the stream of water exiting a British tap is always consistently powerful. Brits never have to worry about water pressure. It’s reliable and always offers a spa-like shower experience. For Americans who shower in a slow trickle rather than a stream, this feels like a top-tier luxury that they are envious of.
5. Windows That Actually Open Wide
In the UK you’ll find windows that actually open up wide, offering fantastic airflow throughout the home. But, in the US, homes are more designed for air conditioning and in many homes and buildings, the windows hardly move at all. Opening up your windows is such a normal British thing to do but for Americans stuck in stuffy homes with windows that open just a smidgen, it feels sumptuous.
6. Buskers Who Perform Well
Americans are always surprised to hear and see the talent of street performances in the UK and how respected they are. They truly put on a fantastic show, adding a gentle and beautiful soundtrack to everyday life. In the US, there are street performances, but they can feel a bit chaotic and disorganised. Sometimes they’re great; other times you want to cover your ears.
7. Street Trees That Line High Streets
Even the look of British shopping areas is quaint, charming and gives a storybook vibe. British high streets look and feel charming and polished. There is usually a row of trees along shopping streets, main roads and town centres. These trees add shade, colour and a feeling of calmness throughout the area. This is quite luxurious to Americans who are used to shopping in car-centric concrete jungles.
8. Random Public Gardens
There are beautiful public gardens everywhere in the UK, even in the middle of towns and cities. You can go for a walk and stumble upon a perfectly maintained green space with benches, flower beds and sometimes even a fountain. It’s a quiet corner where you can stop, reflect and enjoy the view. Americans think this is straight-up luxury because in the US, green spaces are much more limited and not hiding around corners of busy cities.
9. Bookshops on Every High Street
Something that Americans find absolutely magical in the UK is how easy it is to find a bookshop. In fact, Americans are envious of the number and how accessible bookshops are. Walk down nearly any high street and you’ll be met with a mix of independent shops, cosy second-hand stores, bookshops and beloved chains. It’s easy to find a bookshop and they’re a wonderful place to pass time. In the US, book stores are tucked away in malls, city centers and big box stores. It’s less of a daily convenience to visit one and more of a destination that takes effort and planning.
10. Pubs That Serve Fantastic Meals
Pubs aren’t just for drinking in the UK and Americans are always pleasantly surprised by this. They’re often full-blown restaurants serving terrific meals. People can sit and enjoy their favourite drink and have a hearty meal with their family. It’s a far cry from bars in America that serve drinks and, if you’re lucky, a light bar snack.
Conclusion
It turns out there are several “everyday” things that Americans deem to be luxury. Mobile phone plans that people can actually afford, terrific recycling programmes, free ATM withdrawals, random public gardens and more are just some of the things Americans think are straight up luxury but to the British? It’s just normal! Which of these things do you think is straight-up luxury?
