Author Archives: Toni Hargis

Choices, Choices: How to Navigate American Restaurant Menus

By | Posted on February 21st, 2013
Too many choices can leave a customer overwhelmed. (FoodRepublic)

Brits are often taken aback at the number of choices when dining out or ordering food in the U.S. Most menus are at least two to three pages, and if you’re in one of those TGIF-type joints, it’s like being handed War and Peace.

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Relax, Brits: It’s OK to Make a Fuss in the U.S.

By | Posted on February 14th, 2013
"Waiter, there's a fly in my soup." (CNN.com)

Many Brits refrain from requesting something or complaining about something because they don’t want to “make a fuss” or put someone out.  The now viral British People Problems post includes the seemingly ridiculous “I ...

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Valentine’s Day: American Style

By | Posted on February 12th, 2013
Here's a modern day twist on the traditional candy hearts.

In the U.K., it’s very common to get someone else to write out your Valentine’s cards. They’re supposed to be sent anonymously to the object of your heart’s desire, hence the need to disguise the writing.

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Two Brits Debate: Are Americans Sarcasm-Literate?

By and | Posted on February 5th, 2013
On 'The Big Bang Theory,' the sarcasm-impaired Sheldon is the odd man out. (Photo: CBS)

Two Brits-in-America discuss Americans and their use of sarcasm (or lack thereof).

Toni Hargis: I’d say many Brits have experienced Number 9 on the British People Problems list: “I phoned Netflix customer support, which is U.S.

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Love Me, Love My Child

By | Posted on January 17th, 2013
Leave your kids at home unless invited.

One thing you’ll notice as a Brit in the U.S., is that Americans really like their children.

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‘Want the Last Biscuit?’: A Very British Dilemma

By | Posted on January 15th, 2013
A test of politeness: do you always ask if someone else wants the last biscuit?

There’s a Reddit post going viral at the moment that has touched a nerve with many Brits. Although it’s supposed to be a spoof on the many ridiculous habits of us Brits, I found myself going through the list and mentally agreeing ...

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How to Do Tea in the U.S.

By | Posted on January 8th, 2013
Would you like some tea with your cream? (Photo via AP)

Yes, I’m going to give British readers a few pointers on tea – American style. (more…)

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New Year’s Resolutions for Brits in America

By | Posted on January 1st, 2013
Ahhh ... (Photo via HKI)

New Years is a grand time for Brits in the U.S  to take stock of how they’re doing as expats, and perhaps to make a few little changes. Here’s a few suggestions:

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The 2012 Most Popular Baby Names

By | Posted on December 27th, 2012
(Photo via MommyShorts.com)

It’s that time of year again – the Most Popular Baby Names of 2012 are revealed. I always like to compare British and American favorites. Let’s see.

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Brits in a Cold Climate

By | Posted on December 25th, 2012
It's all about layering. (ChillyLarry.com)

I was raised in the frozen tundra of North East England. Icy Scandinavian winds came howling in from the North Sea, stinging my cheeks and making my two-bus journey to school a misery in winter. Cold?

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