1. It’s Westminster not West Minister.
It is not pronounced minister. There is no extra "i," contrary to popular opinion.
2. Keeping right on escalators really helps with efficiency.
If you stand on the left side, be prepared to be pushed down.
3. You can actually get lost in the Tower of London.
The Tower is massive. And some stairs only go up, not down.
4. Follow the map, not your heart.
London is a monster sometimes. The map is your best friend. Trust me, I walked nine-miles one day because I refused to double check with mappie.
5. It’s not a good idea to put your Oyster card at the bottom of your backpack, especially if you’re going through multiple line changes.
This is possibly the most important thing I learned. It can be incredibly dangerous to stop and fish for an Oyster card during rush hour. You may lose a limb in the crowd.
6. Londoners don’t smile at strangers, and they think you’re weird if you do.
In the streets. On the Tube. It's not normal here. It's creepy.
7. You make think their humor is funny, but they probably don’t think yours is.
If they don't laugh at the first joke, just stop. Don't try to make up for it.
8. There’s a reason hostels are cheap.
It's all about location and accommodations. Make sure sheets are included.
9. Londoners walk really fast.
Walking here is kind of like driving on the freeway. Speed up or get out.
10. You shouldn’t split a cab with a strange guy at the airport.
Just kidding, Dad, I learned that in the movie "Taken." Seriously, though, friends, don't take a cab with a strange guy.
11. You don't want to leave.
It's been real, it's been good. Once you get the hang of things, you really start to fancy this cold city.