I mentioned that most of our sales come from the US. I think we’ve subconsciously made this happen by the way…due to our [very obvious] obsession with America.
During our interactions, visits, and all-round familiarisation, we’ve come across lots of differences – between the US and England – which I thought it’d be fun to share.
So, over the coming weeks and months (until I get bored or run out of material!) I’ll be highlighting some contrasts, some connected to our business, some plain random.
To kick things off, how about flags? Anyone who’s visited will be struck by the sheer volume on display all-year-round; so not just when the FIFA World Cup is on!
Maybe it’s ‘cos America’s history is so recent? Maybe because being American signifies freedom and opportunity? Maybe Americans are just happy to be American?
There’s even a designated ‘Flag Day‘ (14 June) within ‘National Flag Week’, when the president issues a proclamation urging U.S. citizens to fly the flag for the week.
Whatever the reason for this flag passion, you see it everywhere! On houses, public buildings, store fronts, cars, boats, clothing, the list goes on…and on…
Americans also sing their national anthem prior to every sporting occasion. Is this because their anthem is better than ours – and it is – or some other reason?
All the same, it’s refreshing to see people behave so passionately about their home nation. Not that we’re all unhappy being English of course! We’re just ‘different’ 
Canada and The US are very similar in our “pride”. The states probably has a few more flags than us but we like our national anthem a little more.
In the US there is a flag in ever classroom and each morning you “pledge allegiance to the flag” and in Canada we stand and sing the national anthem each morning.
As Canadian’s we also generally dislike American’s. Not to the point where we’d say so to them or start a fight or anything as we are WAY to passive for that but in general we think they are mostly jerks.
Although their fast food is FANTASTIC!
Hi Nikki! Ah yes, I realise you Canadians are very patriotic too. “O Canada…” is the only bit I know of your anthem though I’m afraid, whereas I know the entire American one. Actually, lots of people in England seem to dislike Americans too…many without ever going there or meeting any!
Well now that I read the two pervious comments, I’m a bit disuaded from leaving one, but my American spirit leads me through. A couple things about Americans… it all stems from our being raised with the idea of pride…take pride in what you do…take pride in who you are…be original and inventive and never ashamed. Most of the Americans I know are raised with these concepts and yes we pledge allegiance to a country that fosters these ideas along with good will to fellow men and the land we call our home. I wish many more countries took pride in themselves and wasn’t afraid to say they do! Recently, the Austrialian Prime Minister stood up and said this Australia, this is what makes us Australian, and if you don’t like it, you don’t have to live here. I say, GOOD FOR HIM!
So back to America, it is the land of oppurtunity because it fosters hope, dreams and the chance to be proud of yourself, who you are and what you do. I am never ashamed to say I am American, and yes I live in England. I am married to a fine English chap and have a son who is both American and British. And even though we choose to remain here in the UK, I am never reluctant to share my American ways and culture with him. I hope to instill in him the pride of BOTH his English and American cultures x
Hi Theresa and thanks for stopping by
Not sure why the “two previous comments” should dissuade you. I’m pretty sure Nikki was generalising about the way Canadians feel about Americans, though she’s perfectly capable of defending herself!
As for me, I LOVE America! If you look back at previous posts, you’ll see lots of evidence of this. You’ll also see I keep going back; seven times in the last few years!
I agree with your point about wishing that more countries behaved like the US. This is precisely the point I was making in the post. As I said “it’s refreshing to see people behave so passionately about their home nation”
As for your son, I’m completely jealous of his dual nationality! Thanks again for your contribution and do come back soon
Hey Theresa,
Just wanted to point out that I too dig America! I guess my comment could have lead itself to be misunderstood. Definitely not my intent though.
As much as I love Canada and couldn’t imagine living anywhere else if I had to I’d go south. I’m secretly a Texan at heart if you want me to be perfectly honest with you! I mean the heat and the BBQ and the good old fashion cowboys! YUM! MMmmm and let’s not forget the sweet tea!
Glad to hear I’m in good company then! Andy, I wrote to you previously so I know you are planning on trying to make the jump over the pond to Boston and wish you all the luck with it! Boston is indeed my FAVOURITE American city. And yes I spelled that the British way
So what else have you noticed about Americans and the American way of life?
Also if you ever need advice about somethings there, you have another source in me
I traveled extensively up and down the east coast and somewhat out west before settling here in the UK.
All the best and keep blogging x
@Nikki Thanks for clearing that up. I was certain you loved America really! Incidentally, we’re in Vancouver in July – perhaps you could pop across and say hello! It appears to only be 12 hours’ drive
@Theresa Ah yes, I remember! Love that you’re a Boston fan too! Thanks for the advice offer – may just take you up on that.
Oh, this year our business travel will also take us back to Boston (twice), plus New York, Seattle, Portland, San Francisco and Las Vegas! Very exciting!
By the way, edited your comment and removed the 2nd one
Catch you both soon x
p.s. as for more differences, you’ll have to keep an eye on the blog – I’ll be posting more soon…