Additional Coverage:
- I lived in the UK for 4 years before moving back to the US. Here are 10 things I miss after returning to America. (newsbreak.com)
After four years in Scotland, I’ve returned to the US. While I missed home, I now find myself longing for certain aspects of my time abroad.
I miss the milder Scottish winters, where snow was rare and I didn’t need a jacket for quick errands. I also miss the cozy pubs with their low ceilings and ancient bars.
UK television commercials seemed quieter than American ones, with less intrusive sounds and music. I miss the easy availability of violet-flavored candy, called Parma Violets, which have a unique taste that I crave.
The UK’s limited grocery options were surprisingly convenient, reducing shopping time and stress. I miss the more dog-friendly atmosphere, where dogs were welcomed in many places, including banks and cinemas.
UK pharmacies only sold health products, making it easy to find what I needed without distractions. I appreciated the smaller portion sizes at UK restaurants, which were more suitable for my small appetite.
The relaxed open-container laws in Scotland allowed people to enjoy drinks in public spaces. I found this convivial and less restrictive than the US. Finally, I miss the cheap flights to other European countries, which made travel more accessible.