When coming to London, I really tried not to have a predisposed opinion or idea of what it was going to be like. Being on a Hospitality at Sea Cruise made this a bit easier because I experienced multiple other cultures and styles of hospitality, so it opened my eyes to what could be without setting any expectations. Taking the pre-departure lessons I realized that there are some key differences that I should’ve been prepared for.
Cultural Insights
The main Cultural Insights I saw were the massive emphasis on smoking and drinking. Granted we have the same in America, however the emphasis on beer, cider, and cigarettes was insane. I obviously knew that it was going to be a thing but not to the extent I saw it. I felt inclined to join in to feel what it was like to be a local. The people were very friendly and the service for the most part was great! I appreciated the heavy focus on being environmentally friendly although it was annoying at times with all the paper straws and lack of ice/AC. Nothing that was a make or break but definitely an adjustment.
Leadership Comparison
I felt as though I was able to see a bit more of the chain of command visibly while dining or out and about. Usually in America, I feel as though I wouldn’t see certain leadership positions but at every establishment we attended I was able to tell who was the Head Bartender, Chef, or GM/AGM. There was definitely a difference in terms of the experience provided and the ways the service workers apply themselves is a bit different.
Cross Cultural Communication
While in London I don’t feel as I will change the way I communicate very much. I am very confident in my ability to speak with people and form connections. I have come to realize that recently I am personable and have little to no issues when interacting with different people. I value connection and try my best to make people feel understood while also trying to engage and learn about others. I also dont know what to really expect so I can’t say for certain that I will not have to change a bit the way I communicate with British people.
Personal Reflection
I am most curious to see if the idea of the UK I have in my head is how it will be. I am excited to learn a lot about the history and seeing many of the historic destinations where major events occurred throughout time. A personal goal of mine is to see many of the significant pop-culture sites where films have been shot or that changed the course of artists/musicians lives. I would also love to challenge myself in terms of trying foods from cultures I don’t tend to indulge in while I’m in America.
I have been preparing myself to be outside my comfort zone. I have never traveled this far, let alone without any friends or family going along with me. Most of the people I am traveling with are complete strangers and so that is something that I am not necessarily fearful of, but am preparing myself to deal with. Professionally, I just want to make sure that I am as engaged as I can be and absorb as much knowledge and experience as possible. This is an experience that I am not taking for granted and want to make the most of and do whatever I need to do to have the best experience possible.