The English Pub

 I have found that most pubs are fairly good to visitors, for the most part they expect certain things from certain people depending on where you are from.  As a US Serviceman I found my best times were had in places where no tourists go, you become a bit of a novelty. This worked well for me when I was single.  One story comes to mind that causes me to also advise bieng observant.  Just North of Birmingham  ( I want to say) Lichfield. On the way into town I noticed a sign that said it was the birthplace of Dr Johnson, the name of the pub I went to ecapes me, but they served of all things, Michelob. Never saw one with an "imported" label before.  But I must have questioned 30 people (most of them female of course) before someone knew who he was, or that he had even lived there...much less what he did to be "famous".  Sure was a great ice breaker.  For the most part, the advice before this is good.  If you are friendly and willing to laugh at yourself you wont have any trouble.  I was often invited to peoples homes to continue drinking and conversing after last call.  The British being stand offish is a myth. One thing I did notice, the (Young) men come with thier girlfreinds, then promply step over to throw darts and such with thier mates.  Me and mine however, would much rather sit at a table full of girls and actually talk to them.  Having a good ice breaker like Dr. Johnson makes it easy.  I did find for the most part that the older folks took to us Americans a bit easier. I guess with us zooming the girls it didnt help us with the blokes that were our age.

Edited by: John Joerg at:5th January 2009 07:41

I'll have to jot that down Paul, next time I am over I might just take a stroll by. One of 10,000 things that I'd like to do now, I love connecting things like that.  London is by far my favorite city. Having grown up in New York City, it just doesnt compare to London when I find I need a city around me.

I do admit though, I like the old pubs hidden away in tiny villages best, nothing like sitting down next to the fire in a 400+ year old pub with a pint. Fireplace? nah mate we just buiild it against that wall there.  Sitting by the fire is dangerous though, get all nice and warm then step out into the cold to go home and find out you are legless.  "did anyone see you?" mum asks. (no Mum just the whole village, we fell down three times betwen the kings head and the top of the road. 

I have done that a few times in my life as well John. I love the local pubs in Wales. If you go in alone, you will soon be invited to join a group of people. If you are a stranger you will soon be made welcome.

I Just want to go to one with everyone here at Poe!,The first round will be on me !!!!

You must be very rich then Rick.He he he.

got lots of plastic Peter !!!l lol