Studying in London has been an eye‑opening experience. It’s one thing to read about a city and hear things about it, and another to actually live in it every day. Coming from studying in Pittsburgh, I was surprised by how differently daily life is shaped by infrastructure and culture. These differences say a lot about what each society values.
The biggest change I noticed in London is how normal it is to walk or take public transportation to wherever you need to be. The Underground (Subway/Tube), buses, and trains aren’t just options here, they’re an essential part of everyday life. It’s very rare to walk down a street and not see other people doing the same. Even short trips that I’d normally drive for at home in the U.S. are done on foot or by bus or Tube here. My closest Underground line is the Piccadilly line which goes across the entire city. Overall, the city feels built for people, not just cars.
Pittsburgh and most of the U.S. operates very differently. At home, I usually drive everywhere. Our neighborhoods and highways are built for cars, and public transportation is limited. In many ways, it reflects an American focus on individual convenience while London embraces a more collective approach. Here in London, a strong public transportation network, combined with walkable streets, creates a more shared, sustainable city experience.
Another big shift I noticed is in how people approach food here. In London, portion sizes tend to be smaller, and meals feel more balanced. There’s a large emphasis on fresh ingredients and variety. The local markets, busy with bakers and farmers, make it easy to pick up quality ingredients or grab a quick bite. And of course, they have their own British cuisine here with famous items like Shepherd’s pie and fish and chips. Even when I order similar international cuisines to what is at home, such as Italian or Japanese dishes, I notice subtle differences in ingredients and presentation, making the experience unique.
Back in Pittsburgh and all over the U.S., portions tend to be larger, and once again convenience often takes priority. We have plenty of amazing restaurants, of course, but fast-food culture and food trucks are plentiful in certain spaces (in big cities such as New York City). There’s an American mindset that bigger portions and quick service are the best value, and this approach can come at the expense of nutrition and quality.
Experiencing life in both London and Pittsburgh has given me a new way to view my own habits and priorities. It’s a reminder that how a city is built and how its people move, eat, and connect says a lot about the values that shape its culture.