London vs. Bucharest

Oh, how they differ! London is everything Bucharest is not! London might be what one would consider a fine elegant restaurant while Bucharest is the hot dog stand down the street!

Both cities have an enormous amount of traffic and people. The difference within these great populations is how people act. The traffic in Bucharest consists of illegal driving, constant honking and continual yelling at both pedestrians and other drivers. Englanders behave in no such manner. I heard one honk while there and saw no driving on sidewalks or cursing.

While boarding the plane to go to London, we were merely trampled by the impatient Romanians. A flight attendant actually stood on the stairs and screamed at the mob before we boarded. In England there were mobs of people but no pushing, no screaming and no irate employees.

The subways systems also have great differences. The subway lines in England are amazing! They are well marked and circulate throughout the entire city. Bucharest has four main lines which speckle riders through the city. Unfortunately the subways in Bucharest are also poorly marked and make it difficult to find your way.

Although I had been warned of rudeness in England, I was treated only with kindness and terrific customer assistance. Bucharestians often greet you with a frown and are not always eager to help. It must also be mentioned that the architecture and aesthetic appeal of London far out does Bucharest. It feels

That said, Bucharest does have some finer points. It is not nearly as expensive as classic London. While London does have terrific shopping, it comes at a price. I found nothing, including small snacks, under two dollars. A basic meal of a sandwich (the two slices of bread, lunch box type) and a beverage cost a minimum of six dollars. Bucharest can also brag about its cheap taxis and unlimited service. I have only waited ten minutes for a cab in Romania; there was a possibility of a three hour wait while visiting the U.K. I suppose I was glad to return to my new home, appreciating the beauty of other places even more.