As the old saying goes, there’s a first time for everything – particularly when it comes to travel.
American TikTok influencer Kjordyyy found himself utterly taken aback during his visit to London. In a recent video, he highlighted the “culture shock” some Americans face in the Big Smoke.
According to him, the British capital presents a stark contrast to life across the pond. Detailing his observation, he remarked: “The bar for manners here in London is at an all time low.
“I’m drinking coffee at a Pret, which is like a pretty, popular coffee shop here in London. It’s peak time so, super, super busy. All the seats are taken. An elderly woman is standing up because she can’t find a seat, but no one moves, but she’s looking around.
“I’m like, ok, I’m just going to get up. So I get up, I wipe my table off, my crumbs, and I give her the seat. And she looks so shook and so stunned. And then she goes ‘oh my gosh, God bless you’, and I’m like kind of confused, and she goes ‘not too many people would do that here’.”
Kjordyyy’s experience led him to think a lot about what happened, and this prompted him to call out to other young men, encouraging them to give up their seats to the elderly who need them in crowded spots like cafes or on public transport.
The footage has led some viewers to suggest it’s a “London thing”, with claims that such scenarios are not reflective of the entire UK. In fact, some are adamant it’s not.
One comment read: “My sister and I moved to London from the USA a month ago, and we’re always giving our seats up to elderly/pregnant on the bus/train. It shocks us that young people just don’t here… at all.”
Another added their perspective, stating: “In North most people give up seats on public transport etc for the elderly.”
This sentiment was echoed by another response, which read: “This is definitely just a London thing. Up North it’s just manners.”
Meanwhile, a fourth person wasn’t willing to take any criticism, and said: “Yeah, that’s my seat. I got here and secured it. It’s not my problem if they can’t get one.”
