Advice from an Aunt

Here is an email my aunt sent me, I thought it would be helpful for everyone.

Hi Celine!

How are you? I was wondering if you are all set for the above trip. The first time I went to UK, I remember how I encountered the coldness of that country. England is a country that is cold/cool most of the time. The sun was shining like that of Singapore, and I went out in jeans and just long-sleeve blouse; it was 10 to 12 degrees, and I froze, my lips quivered and my facial muscle tighten- ha! I couldn't wait to get into the shops. Over here, we get into the shops for the air-condition, whereas in UK, we want to go into the shops quickly for the heater. (Some old people sit in the library the whole day though they are not really reading, because they want to save electricity/gas at home).

During the cold weather, I used to go for a long walk in my jumper, jeans, sports shoes, and anorack, and I like to see my nose and cheeks pink. In summer, the temperature 15 degrees is nice; you feel the gentle warmth on your face, but again, beware of the chilly wind, and the temperature can drop below 10 at night.
London is a lot warmer than places like Cambridge/Oxford where you see 100-year old brick buildings and well known universities. (Genevieve studied music in Oxford U.)

So, enough long-sleeve blouses are important, to be worn under your jumper, also a pair of rubber slippers for indoors/bathroom. The anorack is most important whenever you go out.

You may not have time to do washing as you like, and even if you do, garments may not dry in time when you need to pack again. Unlike Singapore, in UK, the provision for hanging/drying facilities in the rooms of hotels/motels does not seem to be an important factor. I remember having to put my wet garments over the gas pipe heater.
So, it is worthwhile buying some disposable panties to cover the whole trip, if you have not done so. These panties are free-size and not expensive. Gen. and Aunty Pauline always buy these from Singapore. (Know something? Whenever I travelled, in the past, I was always worried about managing my menstrual period; then the invention of the disposal panties really makes travelling a lot more comfortable).

Also, generally it is hard water in UK; after a bath, you may start scratching, which can be quite persistent and uncomfortable. So, bring a small tube of moisturiser for application immediately after a bath. In some homes/hotels, chemical is added to their water to soften the water. Not everyone would do this in their water tank because it costs money.

If you happen to buy fruits for your own consumption, remember not to touch the fruit, the grocer will scold you because you are not allowed to pick and choose. (That was the experience I could not forget. Ha!)

If the English know you all are from Singapore, they will respect you, more so, if you speak slowly and be....very very polite.

Well, if I don't see you, have a good trip. Take care. Good luck!

Love

Aunty Rita

Yes, this means I have to bring the anorak, take photos, and look happy.