Roses and Thorns in the UK

Roses:

1. You are allowed to bring your dog to pubs in the UK. Now that is civilized. Then again, with my dog and a beer, I don't know that I'd ever leave the pub.

2. Public transportation is majorly subsidized--trains are relatively cheap, fast, and even a little swank.

3. National Health (alright, we're getting there in the US).

4. It costs you to drive in the center city of London (got close to this in NYC--should try again).

5. Excellent Shakespeare any night you want it.

6. Babysitters are respected professionals--with serious training and credentials.

7. Tipping doesn't break the bank--about 10% here.

8. Afternoon Tea

9. Being within 3 hours of Paris

10. Old, gorgeous churches

Thorns:

1. Roundabouts--really? Bane of my UK existence.

2. Left-hand side driving--really really? I feared for my life in the passenger's seat (and PK is an excellent driver).

3. Queuing as a sport and/or art. Just say no. How many times did we face a long line only to discover another entrance with no line at all?

4. Roads--lord have mercy. But I guess this explains the emphasis on trains.