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General Category => Off the Record => Topic started by: Tamas on December 03, 2013, 08:22:53 AM

Title: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Tamas on December 03, 2013, 08:22:53 AM
I have been in the UK since the start of August, and I figured it might be mildly entertaining to rant about the oddities or non-Hungarian-like behaviour I have experienced.

Since these will grumblings and all, it is important to start with the disclaimer that I have been really enjoying my time in the country. A country that seems to be efficient with a better morale (than Hungary at least, in both cases), and it has especially made a big impression how if there is any reaction to my clueless foreigner stumblings, it is to become nicer/more patient with me. This is in stark contrast with, say, my Germany experiences.
So all in all, my life here (I don`t want to say integration so soon) has been going on much, much easier than I anticipated, British people in general truly rock,

BUT:

-"how are you" "how are you doing", plus casual quick conversation by cashiers and such: YOU DON`T REALLY CARE!!! STOP ASKING! I have seen some occasion of people dropping that casually and moving on without waiting for the answer. A Hungarian friend once tried dropping "Quite bad actually" as an answer to enjoy the confusion and meltdown which followed. :D
Hungarians are whiny and moody, being all cheerful and friendly all the time is EXHAUSTING

-"m8" see above. First time you have seen me was 2 seconds ago when we entered the same lift. I am not your mate, mate. That said, I find myself using it more and more involuntarily  :Embarrass:

-All the spitting - OMG WTF

-separate cold and hot water taps for the sink: RLY, SRSLY?

-charity and the environment: I am happy that I would give electricity to an entire Bangladesh household but I still don`t want that £5 T-shirt. And people should not parachute jump for charity. Give money to charity, AND jump out of an airplane for fun. You don`t need to repent for having fun.
And if you write an entire tale on the side of the box about how that biscuit containing no nuts whatsoever is handmade in a small Scottish family bakery next to a clean stream running a small green hydro plant and using carbon neutral wood (`the fuck is that, anyways?) to heat the oven and hand-madely dipping the biscuit into chocolate (as if Mrs. McGregor touching all over my biscuit should make me more eager to put it in my mouth), don`t you think you will come off as a god damn liar when you have to indicate on the back that people with nut allergies should not eat your product since during the production some nut could make it`s way into it? (obviously from the factory line). Jeesh.

That is all for now :P
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: grumbler on December 03, 2013, 08:28:22 AM
Quote from: Tamas on December 03, 2013, 08:22:53 AM
-separate cold and hot water pipe for the sink: RLY, SRSLY?

:lol:  Yes, you actually need a separate pipe to bring in hot water.  If you only want hot water, or only want cold water, then one pipe will do.  Otherwise, you need two.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Caliga on December 03, 2013, 08:28:55 AM
It's called 'civilization', Tamas. :)
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Tamas on December 03, 2013, 08:30:33 AM
Quote from: grumbler on December 03, 2013, 08:28:22 AM
Quote from: Tamas on December 03, 2013, 08:22:53 AM
-separate cold and hot water pipe for the sink: RLY, SRSLY?

:lol:  Yes, you actually need a separate pipe to bring in hot water.  If you only want hot water, or only want cold water, then one pipe will do.  Otherwise, you need two.

Ok, I meant taps. :P You can continue piling on my language skills once you can showcase how good your Hungarian is. :P

I, of course, meant this:

(https://languish.org/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fcoreyhilton.files.wordpress.com%2F2012%2F02%2Fbritish-sink.jpg&hash=57b49e90cc2f3c3b2cf837292edb6f1dd54f3d47)
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Ed Anger on December 03, 2013, 08:30:43 AM
Wait until he discovers indoor toilets!
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Sheilbh on December 03, 2013, 08:34:06 AM
Quote from: Tamas on December 03, 2013, 08:22:53 AM-"how are you" "how are you doing", plus casual quick conversation by cashiers and such: YOU DON`T REALLY CARE!!! STOP ASKING! I have seen some occasion of people dropping that casually and moving on without waiting for the answer. A Hungarian friend once tried dropping "Quite bad actually" as an answer to enjoy the confusion and meltdown which followed. :D
Hungarians are whiny and moody, being all cheerful and friendly all the time is EXHAUSTING
:lol: I blame Americans for this, service staff are told to do it - just like 'would you like a croissant or a muffin with that?' - but it doesn't fit well with British people or British service. It's normally said in the same dour monotone as 'do you need help packing?'

You don't have be cheerful and friendly. It's like saying 'hello', not an actual question. All my Spanish friends always answer this question like 'good' or 'really well, thanks' which is about as disconcerting for the person serving you as 'quite bad actually'. The correct answer is 'okay', 'fine' or 'not too bad'. If you then want to escalate towards a full conversation - without needing to actually say anything - you can comment on the weather.

Having said that you're right, I've worked with people from all over Europe and by some distance the Hungarians were the most miserable :lol: I don't know why :console:

Edit: I had the same experience going to the US where it seemed like the service staff actually meant their question and wanted follow-up on how I was because 'not too bad' sounded quite negative.

Quote-All the spitting - OMG WTF
Interesting. Never noticed it myself.

Quote-separate cold and hot water pipe for the sink: RLY, SRSLY?
I know :bleeding:

Edit: How is Epping though? You had much of a chance to do stuff out of work?
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: CountDeMoney on December 03, 2013, 08:53:29 AM
Quote from: Sheilbh on December 03, 2013, 08:34:06 AM
Quote from: Tamas on December 03, 2013, 08:22:53 AM-"how are you" "how are you doing", plus casual quick conversation by cashiers and such: YOU DON`T REALLY CARE!!! STOP ASKING! I have seen some occasion of people dropping that casually and moving on without waiting for the answer. A Hungarian friend once tried dropping "Quite bad actually" as an answer to enjoy the confusion and meltdown which followed. :D
Hungarians are whiny and moody, being all cheerful and friendly all the time is EXHAUSTING
:lol: I blame Americans for this, service staff are told to do it - just like 'would you like a croissant or a muffin with that?' - but it doesn't fit well with British people or British service. It's normally said in the same dour monotone as 'do you need help packing?'

You don't have be cheerful and friendly. It's like saying 'hello', not an actual question. All my Spanish friends always answer this question like 'good' or 'really well, thanks' which is about as disconcerting for the person serving you as 'quite bad actually'. The correct answer is 'okay', 'fine' or 'not too bad'. If you then want to escalate towards a full conversation - without needing to actually say anything - you can comment on the weather.

Having said that you're right, I've worked with people from all over Europe and by some distance the Hungarians were the most miserable :lol: I don't know why :console:

You can blame us for it, but damned if you don't think about it more than we do.  :P  You people get torqued around the axle over the most useless stuff.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: grumbler on December 03, 2013, 08:57:49 AM
Quote from: Tamas on December 03, 2013, 08:30:33 AM
Ok, I meant taps. :P You can continue piling on my language skills once you can showcase how good your Hungarian is. :P 

Tell you what:  I will eschew using "RLY, SRSLY" in Hungarian when I don't know what I am talking about, and you do the same with the English language.  :cool:

QuoteI, of course, meant this:

(https://languish.org/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fcoreyhilton.files.wordpress.com%2F2012%2F02%2Fbritish-sink.jpg&hash=57b49e90cc2f3c3b2cf837292edb6f1dd54f3d47)
Of course, there are actual words for this that don't involve pipes, as you now know.

The Brits used (and still use, in many cases) attic or rooftop gravity-feed hot water tanks.  Those tanks aren't inspected, cleaned, etc and so can produce contaminated water unfit for drinking (but still fit for washing with).  Regulations for years required that the cold water taps (which came directly from the water mains) be separate so that the drinking water didn't get contaminated with the hot water tank bugs.  That has remained the custom, even when it isn't necessary (i.e. when there is a standard water heater connected to the main water supply).  It is kinda silly, but understandable.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Sheilbh on December 03, 2013, 08:57:58 AM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on December 03, 2013, 08:53:29 AM
You can blame us for it, but damned if you don't think about it more than we do.  :P
:lol: Of course. It's natural in the US. Americans are more upbeat, friendly and chatty than British people. American service is genuinely warm, British service hopes for competence - anything else is a bonus.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Razgovory on December 03, 2013, 08:59:14 AM
Quote from: Sheilbh on December 03, 2013, 08:57:58 AM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on December 03, 2013, 08:53:29 AM
You can blame us for it, but damned if you don't think about it more than we do.  :P
:lol: Of course. It's natural in the US. Americans are more upbeat, friendly and chatty than British people. American service is genuinely warm, British service hopes for competence - anything else is a bonus.

We are a kind and gentle people. :)
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: CountDeMoney on December 03, 2013, 09:02:05 AM
Quote from: grumbler on December 03, 2013, 08:57:49 AM
The Brits used (and still use, in many cases) attic or rooftop gravity-feed hot water tanks.  Those tanks aren't inspected, cleaned, etc and so can produce contaminated water unfit for drinking (but still fit for washing with).

Ewww, barf.  Disgusting.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Valmy on December 03, 2013, 09:04:41 AM
Quote from: Tamas on December 03, 2013, 08:22:53 AM
-"how are you" "how are you doing", plus casual quick conversation by cashiers and such: YOU DON`T REALLY CARE!!! STOP ASKING! I have seen some occasion of people dropping that casually and moving on without waiting for the answer. A Hungarian friend once tried dropping "Quite bad actually" as an answer to enjoy the confusion and meltdown which followed. :D
Hungarians are whiny and moody, being all cheerful and friendly all the time is EXHAUSTING

My God you would hate Texas then.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Valmy on December 03, 2013, 09:06:04 AM
Quote from: Sheilbh on December 03, 2013, 08:34:06 AM
Edit: I had the same experience going to the US where it seemed like the service staff actually meant their question and wanted follow-up on how I was because 'not too bad' sounded quite negative.

Social convention here demands everybody pretends to be friendly and happy all the time.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: CountDeMoney on December 03, 2013, 09:08:26 AM
Quote from: Valmy on December 03, 2013, 09:06:04 AM
Quote from: Sheilbh on December 03, 2013, 08:34:06 AM
Edit: I had the same experience going to the US where it seemed like the service staff actually meant their question and wanted follow-up on how I was because 'not too bad' sounded quite negative.

Social convention here demands everybody pretends to be friendly and happy all the time.

It's what keeps us from tearing each other apart in another Civil War.  I believe it was part of the terms at Appomattox.

Europe, on the other hand, is a continent full of sullen 15 year olds in the back of Mom's minivan.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Valmy on December 03, 2013, 09:14:34 AM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on December 03, 2013, 09:08:26 AM
It's what keeps us from tearing each other apart in another Civil War.  I believe it was part of the terms at Appomattox.

Europe, on the other hand, is a continent full of sullen 15 year olds in the back of Mom's minivan.

The funny part is I found it just as exhausting putting up with people being so moody all the time.  When I say hello just smile and say hello back you crazy Euros!  Is that not what civilization demands?
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: DGuller on December 03, 2013, 09:16:15 AM
Quote from: Valmy on December 03, 2013, 09:14:34 AM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on December 03, 2013, 09:08:26 AM
It's what keeps us from tearing each other apart in another Civil War.  I believe it was part of the terms at Appomattox.

Europe, on the other hand, is a continent full of sullen 15 year olds in the back of Mom's minivan.

The funny part is I found it just as exhausting putting up with people being so moody all the time.  When I say hello just smile and say hello back you crazy Euros!  Is that not what civilization demands?
No.  :mad:
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Brazen on December 03, 2013, 09:39:03 AM
Quote from: Tamas on December 03, 2013, 08:22:53 AM
-"how are you" "how are you doing", plus casual quick conversation by cashiers and such: YOU DON`T REALLY CARE!!! STOP ASKING! I have seen some occasion of people dropping that casually and moving on without waiting for the answer. A Hungarian friend once tried dropping "Quite bad actually" as an answer to enjoy the confusion and meltdown which followed. :D
Hungarians are whiny and moody, being all cheerful and friendly all the time is EXHAUSTING
Just consider it a way of saying hello, like the Chinese greeting "Have you eaten yet?" It's not actually a question, just a greeting. The expected response is "fine".

Quote-"m8" see above. First time you have seen me was 2 seconds ago when we entered the same lift. I am not your mate, mate. That said, I find myself using it more and more involuntarily  :Embarrass:
Again, it's just punctuating a conversation with a stranger, like Sir would have been used years ago.

Quote-All the spitting - OMG WTF
That's down to all the Eastern Europeans. It's just been banned in my town.

Quote-separate cold and hot water taps for the sink: RLY, SRSLY?
Who'd want to brush their teeth with water out of the same tap the hot water comes out of? I've been to a half-dozen countries this year and they all had separate taps in the bathroom.

Quote-charity and the environment: I am happy that I would give electricity to an entire Bangladesh household but I still don`t want that £5 T-shirt. And people should not parachute jump for charity. Give money to charity, AND jump out of an airplane for fun. You don`t need to repent for having fun.
I only sponsor people if they do stuff that's going to hurt and not be fun. Marathon yes, pay for your holiday to Machu Picchu, no. I went to a wedding where the couple asked for charity donations instead of presents. I didn't even get any food out of it. I don't like being forced to support a cause I wouldn't otherwise have donated to.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on December 03, 2013, 09:40:49 AM
I hate mixer taps; cost me a small fortune to get separate hot and cold taps when I had a new bathroom installed a few years back  :lol:
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: garbon on December 03, 2013, 09:42:55 AM
I'll admit that was one of my least favorite things about England. I wasn't in for getting scalded on one part and frozen on the other. :P
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Valmy on December 03, 2013, 09:45:31 AM
Quote from: Tamas on December 03, 2013, 08:30:33 AM
I, of course, meant this:

(https://languish.org/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fcoreyhilton.files.wordpress.com%2F2012%2F02%2Fbritish-sink.jpg&hash=57b49e90cc2f3c3b2cf837292edb6f1dd54f3d47)

Ok that is freaking nuts.  I might consider moving back to Hungary just to get some warm water.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Tamas on December 03, 2013, 09:46:02 AM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on December 03, 2013, 09:40:49 AM
I hate mixer taps; cost me a small fortune to get separate hot and cold taps when I had a new bathroom installed a few years back  :lol:

(https://languish.org/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.wikia.com%2Fadventuretimewithfinnandjake%2Fimages%2F0%2F05%2FJackie-chan-meme.jpg&hash=039722f1fc2426b3e990ae28979a7f9751422cc5)
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Tamas on December 03, 2013, 09:46:47 AM
Quote from: Valmy on December 03, 2013, 09:45:31 AM
Quote from: Tamas on December 03, 2013, 08:30:33 AM
I, of course, meant this:

(https://languish.org/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fcoreyhilton.files.wordpress.com%2F2012%2F02%2Fbritish-sink.jpg&hash=57b49e90cc2f3c3b2cf837292edb6f1dd54f3d47)

Ok that is freaking nuts.  I might consider moving back to Hungary just to get some warm water.

Actually my flat has proper mixer taps. But I have seen that at other places and I dread the possibility of having to move to a place once which goes full Brit on taps.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Ed Anger on December 03, 2013, 09:47:46 AM
At least you don't have to deal with German toilets.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Syt on December 03, 2013, 09:48:50 AM
Quote from: DGuller on December 03, 2013, 09:16:15 AM
Quote from: Valmy on December 03, 2013, 09:14:34 AM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on December 03, 2013, 09:08:26 AM
It's what keeps us from tearing each other apart in another Civil War.  I believe it was part of the terms at Appomattox.

Europe, on the other hand, is a continent full of sullen 15 year olds in the back of Mom's minivan.

The funny part is I found it just as exhausting putting up with people being so moody all the time.  When I say hello just smile and say hello back you crazy Euros!  Is that not what civilization demands?
No.  :mad:

I read a blog post from a Russian the other day explaining that Russians smile so little on pictures because that's something they only do towards friends and people they actually know and like, not to strangers.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on December 03, 2013, 09:51:18 AM
Herodotus said that "custom is king of all" and I agree with him. I find mixer taps distasteful and degenerate and the warm water they put out gives me the creeps..........which, I will concede, is a more or less insane position  :bowler:
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Valmy on December 03, 2013, 09:52:01 AM
Quote from: Syt on December 03, 2013, 09:48:50 AM
I read a blog post from a Russian the other day explaining that Russians smile so little on pictures because that's something they only do towards friends and people they actually know and like, not to strangers.

To a Texan that just seems like being a petty douchebag. :lol:

But don't most people usually take pictures of friends and people they actually know and like?
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: The Brain on December 03, 2013, 10:17:19 AM
Quote from: Valmy on December 03, 2013, 09:52:01 AM
Quote from: Syt on December 03, 2013, 09:48:50 AM
I read a blog post from a Russian the other day explaining that Russians smile so little on pictures because that's something they only do towards friends and people they actually know and like, not to strangers.

To a Texan that just seems like being a petty douchebag. :lol:

But don't most people usually take pictures of friends and people they actually know and like?

Once the white devil has captured your soul in a "picture", he can show it to anyone. Shocking, I know.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Admiral Yi on December 03, 2013, 10:23:55 AM
 :lol: You Brits do understand that if you only want cold water you just turn on the cold faucet, right?
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: alfred russel on December 03, 2013, 10:25:51 AM
Quote from: Admiral Yi on December 03, 2013, 10:23:55 AM
:lol: You Brits do understand that if you only want cold water you just turn on the cold faucet, right?

But in a lot of places the hot water isn't as clean.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Brazen on December 03, 2013, 10:28:34 AM
Quote from: alfred russel on December 03, 2013, 10:25:51 AM
But in a lot of places the hot water isn't as clean.
We tend to heat water for a limited period of the day and keep it in insulated immersion heaters, so even if it's not unhygienic per se, it's a bit stagnant.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Maladict on December 03, 2013, 10:30:04 AM
Quote from: DGuller on December 03, 2013, 09:16:15 AM
Quote from: Valmy on December 03, 2013, 09:14:34 AM

The funny part is I found it just as exhausting putting up with people being so moody all the time.  When I say hello just smile and say hello back you crazy Euros!  Is that not what civilization demands?
No.  :mad:

No. Smiling people can't be trusted.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Brazen on December 03, 2013, 10:30:26 AM
Quote from: Admiral Yi on December 03, 2013, 10:23:55 AM
:lol: You Brits do understand that if you only want cold water you just turn on the cold faucet, right?
Yes, cold water comes straight from the water main and is fresh. Hot, hot water kills all the germs. Warm water is just wrong. And doesn't toughen you up.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: The Brain on December 03, 2013, 10:30:54 AM
British let's-put-the-plumbing-on-the-outside-of-the-house is hilarious.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: garbon on December 03, 2013, 10:31:42 AM
Quote from: Brazen on December 03, 2013, 10:30:26 AM
Quote from: Admiral Yi on December 03, 2013, 10:23:55 AM
:lol: You Brits do understand that if you only want cold water you just turn on the cold faucet, right?
Yes, cold water comes straight from the water main and is fresh. Hot, hot water kills all the germs. Warm water is just wrong. And doesn't toughen you up.

So what temperature water do you use to shower with? Also are you saying that you scald your hands every time you wash them? :unsure:
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Sheilbh on December 03, 2013, 10:32:57 AM
Quote from: garbon on December 03, 2013, 10:31:42 AM
So what temperature water do you use to shower with?
In my current house alternating boiling hot and freezing cold at the steady pace of a slow pour :weep:
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: grumbler on December 03, 2013, 10:33:13 AM
Btw, Tamas, I give you shit because it is The languish Way(tm), but thanks for the topic.  It sends me back to when I was living in London.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: The Brain on December 03, 2013, 10:33:33 AM
I love England but the English simply do not understand houses and how they are supposed to work.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Valmy on December 03, 2013, 10:34:15 AM
Quote from: Sheilbh on December 03, 2013, 10:32:57 AM
Quote from: garbon on December 03, 2013, 10:31:42 AM
So what temperature water do you use to shower with?
In my current house alternating boiling hot and freezing cold at the steady pace of a slow pour :weep:

That was my dorm in College.  I had to make a decision whether I wanted to freeze or boil in my shower.  I usually chose to burn and my skin would be red for awhile when I got out.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Brazen on December 03, 2013, 10:35:20 AM
Quote from: garbon on December 03, 2013, 10:31:42 AM
So what temperature water do you use to shower with? Also are you saying that you scald your hands every time you wash them? :unsure:
The electric shower heats cold water straight from the mains to my desired temperature.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: garbon on December 03, 2013, 10:41:47 AM
Quote from: Brazen on December 03, 2013, 10:35:20 AM
Quote from: garbon on December 03, 2013, 10:31:42 AM
So what temperature water do you use to shower with? Also are you saying that you scald your hands every time you wash them? :unsure:
The electric shower heats cold water straight from the mains to my desired temperature.

Gotcha. How about the second question?
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: garbon on December 03, 2013, 10:42:26 AM
Quote from: Valmy on December 03, 2013, 10:34:15 AM
Quote from: Sheilbh on December 03, 2013, 10:32:57 AM
Quote from: garbon on December 03, 2013, 10:31:42 AM
So what temperature water do you use to shower with?
In my current house alternating boiling hot and freezing cold at the steady pace of a slow pour :weep:

That was my dorm in College.  I had to make a decision whether I wanted to freeze or boil in my shower.  I usually chose to burn and my skin would be red for awhile when I got out.

I always check the shower when I look for new apartments. :D
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Brazen on December 03, 2013, 10:46:25 AM
Quote from: garbon on December 03, 2013, 10:41:47 AM
Gotcha. How about the second question?
Well it doesn't start scalding, there's a window of perfection as it warms. For extended washing and shaving you fill the sink from both taps and save water. Remember we have this thing called the environment in Europe.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: garbon on December 03, 2013, 10:48:52 AM
Quote from: Brazen on December 03, 2013, 10:46:25 AM
Well it doesn't start scalding, there's a window of perfection as it warms. For extended washing and shaving you fill the sink from both taps and save water.

Eww, gross. So like a bath for your hands...:x

Actually I recall it being like that, which I disliked when at the Stanford house as I was sharing a bathroom with like 10+ people.

Quote from: Brazen on December 03, 2013, 10:46:25 AM
Remember we have this thing called the environment in Europe.

Eww, gross.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on December 03, 2013, 10:53:06 AM
Tamas, I like the way that you find Londoners too cheerful and friendly, it's not what they are usually accused of  :D
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Gups on December 03, 2013, 11:00:53 AM
I prefer mixer taps, but I'm not that bothered. I either want cold water to drink, in which case I just fill a glass. Or warm water to wash, in which case I fill the basin. Showers usually have their own hearing system.

Nice OP Tamas. Whereabouts in the UK are you?
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Admiral Yi on December 03, 2013, 11:01:18 AM
Quote from: Maladict on December 03, 2013, 10:30:04 AM
No. Smiling people can't be trusted.

Aren't you Dutch.  Dutch are a fairly smiley people.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Grey Fox on December 03, 2013, 11:02:13 AM
So, you are telling me that Showers in the UK are self heating?

That's a nice feature, I guess.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Viking on December 03, 2013, 11:03:15 AM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on December 03, 2013, 10:53:06 AM
Tamas, I like the way that you find Londoners too cheerful and friendly, it's not what they are usually accused of  :D

Usually the only londoners that are cheerful and friendly are happy drunks, drug dealers and rentboys looking for work. Happy drunks are few and far between.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Brazen on December 03, 2013, 11:05:05 AM
Ironically, the majority of UK kitchens have mixer taps, so my arguments fall flat  :lol:
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Syt on December 03, 2013, 11:12:07 AM
Quote from: Gups on December 03, 2013, 11:00:53 AMShowers usually have their own hearing system.

British houses are getting weirder and weirder. :huh:
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Admiral Yi on December 03, 2013, 11:14:09 AM
Nuke the whole place from orbit.  It's the only way to be sure.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Valmy on December 03, 2013, 11:15:00 AM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on December 03, 2013, 10:53:06 AM
Tamas, I like the way that you find Londoners too cheerful and friendly, it's not what they are usually accused of  :D

You can just imagine how dour and grim Hungarians are.

I mean if he thinks you guys are too cheerful I shudder to think what he would think of us :lol:
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: The Larch on December 03, 2013, 11:17:43 AM
So, Tamas, what's your opinion on the Brit fondness for indoor carpeting EVERYWHERE?
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Maximus on December 03, 2013, 11:19:57 AM
Quote from: Grey Fox on December 03, 2013, 11:02:13 AM
So, you are telling me that Showers in the UK are self heating?

That's a nice feature, I guess.
if you like the idea of a high-amperage electric circuit in your shower.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on December 03, 2013, 11:20:38 AM
Quote from: Valmy on December 03, 2013, 11:15:00 AM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on December 03, 2013, 10:53:06 AM
Tamas, I like the way that you find Londoners too cheerful and friendly, it's not what they are usually accused of  :D

You can just imagine how dour and grim Hungarians are.

I mean if he thinks you guys are too cheerful I shudder to think what he would think of us :lol:

I found Budapest rather quiet and somewhat melancholy.........I put that down to it not having as many people as it should  :hmm:

Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: lustindarkness on December 03, 2013, 11:25:45 AM
So, do the brits have casual conversations in waiting line to order your Big Mac? And yes, its called waiting in line. :P
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Valmy on December 03, 2013, 11:28:30 AM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on December 03, 2013, 11:20:38 AM
I found Budapest rather quiet and somewhat melancholy.........I put that down to it not having as many people as it should  :hmm:

I was there in 1997 and I thought it felt a bit angry and foreboding.  I put that down to just recently emerging from under the boot of the hated Russians.  Man did those people hate the Russians.  That was the most pissed off history museum I ever went to  :ph34r:
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Barrister on December 03, 2013, 11:30:37 AM
Quote from: Valmy on December 03, 2013, 11:28:30 AM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on December 03, 2013, 11:20:38 AM
I found Budapest rather quiet and somewhat melancholy.........I put that down to it not having as many people as it should  :hmm:

I was there in 1997 and I thought it felt a bit angry and foreboding.  I put that down to just recently emerging from under the boot of the hated Russians.  Man did those people hate the Russians.  That was the most pissed off history museum I ever went to  :ph34r:

I was there 10 years later, and rather liked Budapest because it was the only place in eastern europe that felt like it had once been a part of the Warsaw Pact.  Prague and Krakow felt very much like the west.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Grey Fox on December 03, 2013, 11:31:24 AM
Quote from: Maximus on December 03, 2013, 11:19:57 AM
Quote from: Grey Fox on December 03, 2013, 11:02:13 AM
So, you are telling me that Showers in the UK are self heating?

That's a nice feature, I guess.
if you like the idea of a high-amperage electric circuit in your shower.

That can be quite fun in the right circustances.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on December 03, 2013, 11:34:24 AM
Quote from: Grey Fox on December 03, 2013, 11:31:24 AM
Quote from: Maximus on December 03, 2013, 11:19:57 AM
Quote from: Grey Fox on December 03, 2013, 11:02:13 AM
So, you are telling me that Showers in the UK are self heating?

That's a nice feature, I guess.
if you like the idea of a high-amperage electric circuit in your shower.

That can be quite fun in the right circustances.

The correct Brit term for this is "bracing"  :D
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Maximus on December 03, 2013, 11:35:09 AM
 :D
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Scipio on December 03, 2013, 12:26:16 PM
Quote from: Ed Anger on December 03, 2013, 09:47:46 AM
At least you don't have to deal with German toilets.
Gross.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Syt on December 03, 2013, 12:37:25 PM
Quote from: Ed Anger on December 03, 2013, 09:47:46 AM
At least you don't have to deal with German toilets.

I'd call them Austrian toilets these days. When I left Germany in 2005, no toilet that I recall had a "ledge" anymore where you droppings would rest until you flushed - everything dropped into the water.

In Austria it's no longer in places built in the 2000s, but almost all older buildings/apartments still have them and you might encounter them occasionally in pubs or restaurants. The trick: put some toilet paper in the bowl before you flush, so you don't leave unseemly stains that require vigorous brushing.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: crazy canuck on December 03, 2013, 12:56:19 PM
Quote from: Barrister on December 03, 2013, 11:30:37 AM
Quote from: Valmy on December 03, 2013, 11:28:30 AM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on December 03, 2013, 11:20:38 AM
I found Budapest rather quiet and somewhat melancholy.........I put that down to it not having as many people as it should  :hmm:

I was there in 1997 and I thought it felt a bit angry and foreboding.  I put that down to just recently emerging from under the boot of the hated Russians.  Man did those people hate the Russians.  That was the most pissed off history museum I ever went to  :ph34r:

I was there 10 years later, and rather liked Budapest because it was the only place in eastern europe that felt like it had once been a part of the Warsaw Pact.  Prague and Krakow felt very much like the west.

I was there in 89, before the wall came down.  At that time Budapest was going through its own kind of political spring and it had a feel of electric excitement.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Tamas on December 03, 2013, 12:59:13 PM
Quote from: crazy canuck on December 03, 2013, 12:56:19 PM
Quote from: Barrister on December 03, 2013, 11:30:37 AM
Quote from: Valmy on December 03, 2013, 11:28:30 AM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on December 03, 2013, 11:20:38 AM
I found Budapest rather quiet and somewhat melancholy.........I put that down to it not having as many people as it should  :hmm:

I was there in 1997 and I thought it felt a bit angry and foreboding.  I put that down to just recently emerging from under the boot of the hated Russians.  Man did those people hate the Russians.  That was the most pissed off history museum I ever went to  :ph34r:

I was there 10 years later, and rather liked Budapest because it was the only place in eastern europe that felt like it had once been a part of the Warsaw Pact.  Prague and Krakow felt very much like the west.

I was there in 89, before the wall came down.  At that time Budapest was going through its own kind of political spring and it had a feel of electric excitement.

That was before people learned that fall of communism doesn`t only mean freezers and VHS recorders, but also increased individual responsibility and actual expectations regarding their performances at work.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: alfred russel on December 03, 2013, 12:59:39 PM
Quote from: crazy canuck on December 03, 2013, 12:56:19 PM
I was there in 89, before the wall came down.  At that time Budapest was going through its own kind of political spring and it had a feel of electric excitement.

Because they were finally getting electricity?
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Tamas on December 03, 2013, 01:06:42 PM
Quote from: alfred russel on December 03, 2013, 12:59:39 PM
Quote from: crazy canuck on December 03, 2013, 12:56:19 PM
I was there in 89, before the wall came down.  At that time Budapest was going through its own kind of political spring and it had a feel of electric excitement.

Because they were finally getting electricity?

:rolleyes: Your DGuller persona is supposed to be Ukrainian, you should know better.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: CountDeMoney on December 03, 2013, 01:11:55 PM
Quote from: Syt on December 03, 2013, 12:37:25 PM
Quote from: Ed Anger on December 03, 2013, 09:47:46 AM
At least you don't have to deal with German toilets.

I'd call them Austrian toilets these days. When I left Germany in 2005, no toilet that I recall had a "ledge" anymore where you droppings would rest until you flushed - everything dropped into the water.

In Austria it's no longer in places built in the 2000s, but almost all older buildings/apartments still have them and you might encounter them occasionally in pubs or restaurants. The trick: put some toilet paper in the bowl before you flush, so you don't leave unseemly stains that require vigorous brushing.

Jesus H Two-Ply Christ, no wonder you people lost wars in the 20th century.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Valmy on December 03, 2013, 01:14:49 PM
Quote from: Tamas on December 03, 2013, 12:59:13 PM
That was before people learned that fall of communism doesn`t only mean freezers and VHS recorders, but also increased individual responsibility and actual expectations regarding their performances at work.

Ok well that explains all the rage in 1997.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Ed Anger on December 03, 2013, 01:29:19 PM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on December 03, 2013, 01:11:55 PM
Quote from: Syt on December 03, 2013, 12:37:25 PM
Quote from: Ed Anger on December 03, 2013, 09:47:46 AM
At least you don't have to deal with German toilets.

I'd call them Austrian toilets these days. When I left Germany in 2005, no toilet that I recall had a "ledge" anymore where you droppings would rest until you flushed - everything dropped into the water.

In Austria it's no longer in places built in the 2000s, but almost all older buildings/apartments still have them and you might encounter them occasionally in pubs or restaurants. The trick: put some toilet paper in the bowl before you flush, so you don't leave unseemly stains that require vigorous brushing.

Jesus H Two-Ply Christ, no wonder you people lost wars in the 20th century.

Hitler was too busy plying with his poop
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: CountDeMoney on December 03, 2013, 01:32:11 PM
How the fuck they can refine combined arms and mobile warfare doctrine to an art yet not build a decent toilet...
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: The Brain on December 03, 2013, 01:34:42 PM
Fuck you. There is nothing strange about always inspecting your stool.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Maladict on December 03, 2013, 01:35:16 PM
Quote from: Admiral Yi on December 03, 2013, 11:01:18 AM
Quote from: Maladict on December 03, 2013, 10:30:04 AM
No. Smiling people can't be trusted.

Aren't you Dutch.  Dutch are a fairly smiley people.

But they can't be trusted.  :contract:
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: CountDeMoney on December 03, 2013, 01:38:25 PM
Quote from: The Brain on December 03, 2013, 01:34:42 PM
Fuck you. There is nothing strange about always inspecting your stool.

If it were necessary, your body would keep it.  Weirdos.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: lustindarkness on December 03, 2013, 01:43:21 PM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on December 03, 2013, 01:38:25 PM
Quote from: The Brain on December 03, 2013, 01:34:42 PM
Fuck you. There is nothing strange about always inspecting your stool.

If it were necessary, your body would keep it.  Weirdos.

But you should inspect it.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: mongers on December 03, 2013, 01:44:17 PM
Quote from: Barrister on December 03, 2013, 11:30:37 AM
Quote from: Valmy on December 03, 2013, 11:28:30 AM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on December 03, 2013, 11:20:38 AM
I found Budapest rather quiet and somewhat melancholy.........I put that down to it not having as many people as it should  :hmm:

I was there in 1997 and I thought it felt a bit angry and foreboding.  I put that down to just recently emerging from under the boot of the hated Russians.  Man did those people hate the Russians.  That was the most pissed off history museum I ever went to  :ph34r:

I was there 10 years later, and rather liked Budapest because it was the only place in eastern europe that felt like it had once been a part of the Warsaw Pact.  Prague and Krakow felt very much like the west.

That's because you were in the Balkans.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Ed Anger on December 03, 2013, 01:44:29 PM
Quote from: lustindarkness on December 03, 2013, 01:43:21 PM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on December 03, 2013, 01:38:25 PM
Quote from: The Brain on December 03, 2013, 01:34:42 PM
Fuck you. There is nothing strange about always inspecting your stool.

If it were necessary, your body would keep it.  Weirdos.

But you should inspect it.

I inspect mine every day. But I ain't touching it.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Tamas on December 03, 2013, 01:48:33 PM
Quote from: mongers on December 03, 2013, 01:44:17 PM
Quote from: Barrister on December 03, 2013, 11:30:37 AM
Quote from: Valmy on December 03, 2013, 11:28:30 AM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on December 03, 2013, 11:20:38 AM
I found Budapest rather quiet and somewhat melancholy.........I put that down to it not having as many people as it should  :hmm:

I was there in 1997 and I thought it felt a bit angry and foreboding.  I put that down to just recently emerging from under the boot of the hated Russians.  Man did those people hate the Russians.  That was the most pissed off history museum I ever went to  :ph34r:

I was there 10 years later, and rather liked Budapest because it was the only place in eastern europe that felt like it had once been a part of the Warsaw Pact.  Prague and Krakow felt very much like the west.

That's because you were in the Balkans.

HEY NOW
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: CountDeMoney on December 03, 2013, 01:49:31 PM
I'm confident that it would look like shit, and easily identifiable as such on the Fecal Scale.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: The Brain on December 03, 2013, 02:48:44 PM
You are incredibly unsophisticated.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Iormlund on December 03, 2013, 07:22:05 PM
:lol:
Great topic.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Sheilbh on December 04, 2013, 03:14:47 AM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on December 03, 2013, 11:20:38 AM
Quote from: Valmy on December 03, 2013, 11:15:00 AM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on December 03, 2013, 10:53:06 AM
Tamas, I like the way that you find Londoners too cheerful and friendly, it's not what they are usually accused of  :D

You can just imagine how dour and grim Hungarians are.

I mean if he thinks you guys are too cheerful I shudder to think what he would think of us :lol:

I found Budapest rather quiet and somewhat melancholy.........I put that down to it not having as many people as it should  :hmm:
As I say I shouldn't generalise but the Hungarians I've worked with were unbelievably miserable :mellow:
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Josquius on December 04, 2013, 06:06:03 AM
Quote-"how are you" "how are you doing", plus casual quick conversation by cashiers and such: YOU DON`T REALLY CARE!!! STOP ASKING! I have seen some occasion of people dropping that casually and moving on without waiting for the answer. A Hungarian friend once tried dropping "Quite bad actually" as an answer to enjoy the confusion and meltdown which followed. :D
Hungarians are whiny and moody, being all cheerful and friendly all the time is EXHAUSTING
:lol:
And you're in London. The stereotype of that area is that they're quiet and unfriendly.
Don't go to the north or you'll explode

Quote

-separate cold and hot water taps for the sink: RLY, SRSLY?
:huh:
I don't get the complaint. I guess in Hungary those shitty one tap for hot and cold dealies are common?

Quote
-charity and the environment: I am happy that I would give electricity to an entire Bangladesh household but I still don`t want that £5 T-shirt. And people should not parachute jump for charity. Give money to charity, AND jump out of an airplane for fun.
hmm, wouldn't rant against that on environmental grounds but yes, the whole "Sponsor me to do something awesome...for charity" thing sucks.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Tamas on December 04, 2013, 09:04:49 AM
One more thing: how does a flower become "ethically sourced"? Does it get killed very gently?
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Tamas on December 04, 2013, 09:07:12 AM
Oh, and that biscuit box I rambled on about: it was trying to make me buy it because ingredients were bought locally. In Scotland. Why should somebody in England be ahead from that? Seriously. There is SOME point in supporting YOUR OWN local producers, as in "I will take one for the team and buy his overpriced crap instead of the Chinese underpriced crap". But to buy something "locally produced" when that local is not your own seem to go straight against that logic.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Josquius on December 04, 2013, 09:11:25 AM
Its not quite local but it is the same country...
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Brazen on December 04, 2013, 09:13:29 AM
Quote from: Tyr on December 04, 2013, 09:11:25 AM
Its not quite local but it is the same country...
For the time being.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Sheilbh on December 04, 2013, 09:16:55 AM
Quote from: Tamas on December 04, 2013, 09:04:49 AM
One more thing: how does a flower become "ethically sourced"? Does it get killed very gently?
Either locally produced, but they'd probably say that, or labour conditions in the Kenya rose farms are better and they do something about the carbon from the air miles. That'd be my guess :)

QuoteThere is SOME point in supporting YOUR OWN local producers, as in "I will take one for the team and buy his overpriced crap instead of the Chinese underpriced crap". But to buy something "locally produced" when that local is not your own seem to go straight against that logic.
It's not about helping your own (though that includes Scotland) but cutting down on carbon emissions from shipping oats from Africa. Also, depending on the product, the idea that if it's local it's fresher and better.

A distant third is that you should support British farmers when you can. You can probably get local, local biscuits from a farm shop.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Sheilbh on December 04, 2013, 09:17:31 AM
Quote from: Brazen on December 04, 2013, 09:13:29 AM
Quote from: Tyr on December 04, 2013, 09:11:25 AM
Its not quite local but it is the same country...
For the time being.
Some Tory's briefing that Jeremy Hunt should take over the 'Better Together' campaign :blink: :bleeding:
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Valmy on December 04, 2013, 09:21:23 AM
Quote from: Brazen on December 04, 2013, 09:13:29 AM
Quote from: Tyr on December 04, 2013, 09:11:25 AM
Its not quite local but it is the same country...
For the time being.

I was under the impression independence was not a forgone conclusion.  They have to vote and stuff.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Tamas on December 04, 2013, 09:21:56 AM
Quote from: Sheilbh on December 04, 2013, 09:16:55 AM
but cutting down on carbon emissions from shipping oats from Africa.

I am sure the African farmers are grateful.  :P

That`s an other thing I can poke at: "let`s help the third world, but DO NOT trade with them. That`s bad. Give them charity money. That is noble. Doing business with them is bad for us."  :P
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Valmy on December 04, 2013, 09:25:49 AM
Quote from: Tamas on December 04, 2013, 09:21:56 AM
That`s an other thing I can poke at: "let`s help the third world, but DO NOT trade with them. That`s bad. Give them charity money. That is noble. Doing business with them is bad for us."  :P

We buy stuff from China which then buys stuff from Africa.  What could go wrong?
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on December 04, 2013, 09:26:22 AM
I don't think that people buy "locally" to help the producers, it is more a search for "authenticity". So the parmesan I buy comes with a fairly lengthy story attached (which I can't remember), details of the farmer who makes it, how long it is aged etc etc............the point is that it is good stuff. Of course not every product with a long back story is actually any good but that is a different matter.

I suppose there is another aspect of buying locally which is closer to what you were talking about Tamas, which is the buying of fresh meat and vegetables off local farmers (usually at farmers' markets). We used to get very good meat from these when we lived in Suffolk, up here in Lancashire the vegetables are particularly good.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on December 04, 2013, 09:29:27 AM
Quote from: Valmy on December 04, 2013, 09:21:23 AM
Quote from: Brazen on December 04, 2013, 09:13:29 AM
Quote from: Tyr on December 04, 2013, 09:11:25 AM
Its not quite local but it is the same country...
For the time being.

I was under the impression independence was not a forgone conclusion.  They have to vote and stuff.

They won't go. They talk with their hearts and vote with their heads, like nearly all British people.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Valmy on December 04, 2013, 09:30:33 AM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on December 04, 2013, 09:29:27 AM
They won't go. They talk with their hearts and vote with their heads, like nearly all British people.


I didn't think so.  The polls looked favorable to my mother countries sticking together.

I do want to see more devolution though.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Sheilbh on December 04, 2013, 09:31:07 AM
Quote from: Tamas on December 04, 2013, 09:21:56 AM
That`s an other thing I can poke at: "let`s help the third world, but DO NOT trade with them. That`s bad. Give them charity money. That is noble. Doing business with them is bad for us."  :P
That ignores the fact that fair trade accredited goods are one of the fastest growing areas of retail :P

Having said that there's probably some Guardian writer who wrestles with the dilemma of whether to buy something fair trade from Kenya, or something with lower airmiles from Norfolk :lol:

My view is, money dependant, buy something local if I can especially if it's likely to be of better quality (most foods). If I can't, buy something fair trade over something that's not. Throw both rules out the window for something I really want or that's really tasty :P
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Valmy on December 04, 2013, 09:33:14 AM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on December 04, 2013, 09:26:22 AM
I don't think that people buy "locally" to help the producers, it is more a search for "authenticity". So the parmesan I buy comes with a fairly lengthy story attached (which I can't remember), details of the farmer who makes it, how long it is aged etc etc............the point is that it is good stuff. Of course not every product with a long back story is actually any good but that is a different matter.

I suppose there is another aspect of buying locally which is closer to what you were talking about Tamas, which is the buying of fresh meat and vegetables off local farmers (usually at farmers' markets). We used to get very good meat from these when we lived in Suffolk, up here in Lancashire the vegetables are particularly good.

I typically bought farm meat and eggs when I lived downtown.  I mean that stuff is domestically produced anyway and I could get more interesting and better varieties.  It is the only place you can consistently get anything besides the three land animals America agreed are the only ones fit to eat: pigs, chicken, and cattle
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Sheilbh on December 04, 2013, 09:34:05 AM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on December 04, 2013, 09:26:22 AM
I don't think that people buy "locally" to help the producers, it is more a search for "authenticity". So the parmesan I buy comes with a fairly lengthy story attached (which I can't remember), details of the farmer who makes it, how long it is aged etc etc............the point is that it is good stuff. Of course not every product with a long back story is actually any good but that is a different matter.

I suppose there is another aspect of buying locally which is closer to what you were talking about Tamas, which is the buying of fresh meat and vegetables off local farmers (usually at farmers' markets). We used to get very good meat from these when we lived in Suffolk, up here in Lancashire the vegetables are particularly good.
Yep. For me quality's the big issue. London's a bit of a whore like that, but when I was in Bristol I used to go to a local butchers - supplied from two local farms - and the meat was amazing. They also had their own sausage recipes etc.

Similarly when I buy, say, olive oil or parmesan I want to know what's in it (and what's not) and some guarantee of quality. Geographic links are good for that.

I've never really thought of it in terms of helping British farmers - not least because I still do lots of my shopping in a supermarket :lol:
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Sheilbh on December 04, 2013, 09:35:25 AM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on December 04, 2013, 09:29:27 AM
They won't go. They talk with their hearts and vote with their heads, like nearly all British people.
Assuming no one listens to the Tory idea of having Jeremy Hunt as the face of a campaign orchestrated by George Osborne :bleeding:

That'd drive Rutland independent :weep:
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on December 04, 2013, 09:36:19 AM
Quote from: Valmy on December 04, 2013, 09:30:33 AM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on December 04, 2013, 09:29:27 AM
They won't go. They talk with their hearts and vote with their heads, like nearly all British people.


I didn't think so.  The polls looked favorable to my mother countries sticking together.

I do want to see more devolution though.

I also think that further devolution is a virtual certainty. I think they will end up having home rule within the UK.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Valmy on December 04, 2013, 09:37:14 AM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on December 04, 2013, 09:36:19 AM
I also think that further devolution is a virtual certainty. I think they will end up having home rule within the UK.

That would be the best outcome for Scotland IMO.  England, and London, is just too important to Scotland to be left completely unsupervised :scots:
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on December 04, 2013, 09:41:22 AM
Quote from: Sheilbh on December 04, 2013, 09:35:25 AM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on December 04, 2013, 09:29:27 AM
They won't go. They talk with their hearts and vote with their heads, like nearly all British people.
Assuming no one listens to the Tory idea of having Jeremy Hunt as the face of a campaign orchestrated by George Osborne :bleeding:

That'd drive Rutland independent :weep:

A lot of the current crop of tories look very odd from a middle-class North-West of England perspective, God knows what they look like to the Scottish working-class  :P

Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Sheilbh on December 04, 2013, 09:45:29 AM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on December 04, 2013, 09:41:22 AM
A lot of the current crop of tories look very odd from a middle-class North-West of England perspective, God knows what they look like to the Scottish working-class  :P
Like they're about to gleefully burn their crofts to make way for sheep? :P
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Gups on December 04, 2013, 11:14:59 AM
Quote from: Sheilbh on December 04, 2013, 09:31:07 AM
That ignores the fact that fair trade accredited goods are one of the fastest growing areas of retail :P

Having said that there's probably some Guardian writer who wrestles with the dilemma of whether to buy something fair trade from Kenya, or something with lower airmiles from Norfolk :lol:

My view is, money dependant, buy something local if I can especially if it's likely to be of better quality (most foods). If I can't, buy something fair trade over something that's not. Throw both rules out the window for something I really want or that's really tasty :P

In fairness, Jay Raynor has woken up to the concept of comparative advantage and that food miles are only a part of the calculation (and often not a very important one)
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Gups on December 04, 2013, 11:17:18 AM
Quote from: Valmy on December 04, 2013, 09:21:23 AM
Quote from: Brazen on December 04, 2013, 09:13:29 AM
Quote from: Tyr on December 04, 2013, 09:11:25 AM
Its not quite local but it is the same country...
For the time being.

I was under the impression independence was not a forgone conclusion.  They have to vote and stuff.

It will be a no vote, based on the wallet. Sheep don't vote for Burns Night.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: The Minsky Moment on December 04, 2013, 11:57:08 AM
Quote from: Brazen on December 04, 2013, 09:13:29 AM
Quote from: Tyr on December 04, 2013, 09:11:25 AM
Its not quite local but it is the same country...
For the time being.

Yes soon they may be two countries.
. . . except for currency, head of state, regional transport planning, foreign policy, language, etc.

This may be an outsider thing, but they already have there own football team and a parliament.  What else does independence get them aside from the dubious privilege of having to send a delegate to the UN General Assembly.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Gups on December 04, 2013, 12:02:16 PM
They wouldn't share foreign or defence policy. They would set their own taxes (.e.g low corporation tax a la Eire). They would recieve the revenues from those taxes and from thieir natural resources. They will get rid of nuclear weapons. Then there are all the intangibles - pride, self-determination etc etc

That's what the SNP say anyway
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: The Minsky Moment on December 04, 2013, 12:06:25 PM
Quote from: Gups on December 04, 2013, 12:02:16 PM
They wouldn't share foreign or defence policy.

De facto that seems questionable.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Queequeg on December 04, 2013, 12:18:09 PM
For Tamas:
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/1415569_10153557164835483_826339125_o.png)
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Jacob on December 04, 2013, 12:19:04 PM
Quote from: Tamas on December 04, 2013, 09:04:49 AM
One more thing: how does a flower become "ethically sourced"? Does it get killed very gently?

You should totally aske the people selling them.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Tamas on December 04, 2013, 12:22:47 PM
Quote from: Jacob on December 04, 2013, 12:19:04 PM
Quote from: Tamas on December 04, 2013, 09:04:49 AM
One more thing: how does a flower become "ethically sourced"? Does it get killed very gently?

You should totally aske the people selling them.

Matters of green stuff, local produce, fair trade etc. seem to have religious significance here. I ain`t revealing my heretic tendencies to random strangers, thankyouverymuch.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Gups on December 04, 2013, 12:27:15 PM
Quote from: The Minsky Moment on December 04, 2013, 12:06:25 PM
Quote from: Gups on December 04, 2013, 12:02:16 PM
They wouldn't share foreign or defence policy.

De facto that seems questionable.

Why do you say that?
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: crazy canuck on December 04, 2013, 12:39:54 PM
Quote from: Gups on December 04, 2013, 12:27:15 PM
Quote from: The Minsky Moment on December 04, 2013, 12:06:25 PM
Quote from: Gups on December 04, 2013, 12:02:16 PM
They wouldn't share foreign or defence policy.

De facto that seems questionable.

Why do you say that?

Its like saying the US and Canada dont share foreign or defence policy.  There may be disagreements on the outer edges of those policies but at core they are always going to be tied to some degree by necessity.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: The Minsky Moment on December 04, 2013, 03:45:46 PM
Quote from: Gups on December 04, 2013, 12:27:15 PM
Why do you say that?

Practicality.  They share the same island, they already have integrated air and naval defense systems, not to mention production and basing facilities - it would be insane to break that all up.  There are already strong pressures for defense and foreign policy integration within Europe (see UK-France) and Scotland on its own would have no clout anyways.  So I would forsee Scotland pursuing a scare-quote "independent" foreign/defense policy in the symbolic sense -- setting up consular missions and trade promotion offices, putting the St. Andrews cross on a couple of frigates, sending grunts in tartan to the occasional peacekeeping mission -- but otherwise closely coordinating.  Based on recent experience, the days of Britain/England supporting US military ventures without any European partner are probably over in the post-Basra world, so that probably won't be a significant point of contestation.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: mongers on December 04, 2013, 05:31:59 PM
Quote from: The Minsky Moment on December 04, 2013, 03:45:46 PM
Quote from: Gups on December 04, 2013, 12:27:15 PM
Why do you say that?

Practicality.  They share the same island, they already have integrated air and naval defense systems, not to mention production and basing facilities - it would be insane to break that all up.  There are already strong pressures for defense and foreign policy integration within Europe (see UK-France) and Scotland on its own would have no clout anyways.  So I would forsee Scotland pursuing a scare-quote "independent" foreign/defense policy in the symbolic sense -- setting up consular missions and trade promotion offices, putting the St. Andrews cross on a couple of frigates, sending grunts in tartan to the occasional peacekeeping mission -- but otherwise closely coordinating.  Based on recent experience, the days of Britain/England supporting US military ventures without any European partner are probably over in the post-Basra world, so that probably won't be a significant point of contestation.

Yes, but rationality and nationalism often make strange bedfellows. 
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Ed Anger on December 04, 2013, 06:01:27 PM
Spellus is owed one (1) punch to the balls for the stupid cartoon.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: CountDeMoney on December 04, 2013, 06:13:18 PM
Quote from: Ed Anger on December 04, 2013, 06:01:27 PM
Spellus is owed one (1) punch to the balls for the stupid cartoon.

I don't even know how those Eastern Europeans even managed to make it this far.

http://youtu.be/jR7m-4Vc3MU

In. A. Nutshell.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: mongers on December 04, 2013, 06:25:38 PM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on December 04, 2013, 06:13:18 PM
Quote from: Ed Anger on December 04, 2013, 06:01:27 PM
Spellus is owed one (1) punch to the balls for the stupid cartoon.

I don't even know how those Eastern Europeans even managed to make it this far.

http://youtu.be/jR7m-4Vc3MU

In. A. Nutshell.

Fanboy's keeping the 'memories' alive ? *

Talking of which the bbc have new series beginning next week, it's the story of Byzantium. 



*very tenuous link to mention the tv programme and Spellus.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Ideologue on December 04, 2013, 06:26:42 PM
Quote from: The Minsky Moment on December 04, 2013, 11:57:08 AM
Quote from: Brazen on December 04, 2013, 09:13:29 AM
Quote from: Tyr on December 04, 2013, 09:11:25 AM
Its not quite local but it is the same country...
For the time being.

Yes soon they may be two countries.
. . . except for currency, head of state, regional transport planning, foreign policy, language, etc.

This may be an outsider thing, but they already have there own football team and a parliament.  What else does independence get them aside from the dubious privilege of having to send a delegate to the UN General Assembly.

A W76 over Glasgow.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Tamas on December 04, 2013, 06:33:58 PM
Oh an other favourite of mine: how the relation between curtains and privacy at home is apparently lost on a lot of Britons. They. Just. Would. Not. Put. Curtains. Up.
What the hell?!!
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Ideologue on December 04, 2013, 06:36:20 PM
Maybe they don't have anything to hide.  Do you?
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Tamas on December 04, 2013, 06:36:53 PM
Quote from: Ideologue on December 04, 2013, 06:36:20 PM
Maybe they don't have anything to hide. 

I disagree.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Eddie Teach on December 04, 2013, 06:37:53 PM
Quote from: Tamas on December 04, 2013, 06:33:58 PM
Oh an other favourite of mine: how the relation between curtains and privacy at home is apparently lost on a lot of Britons. They. Just. Would. Not. Put. Curtains. Up.
What the hell?!!

My new bathroom has one of those high opaque windows to let light in. I hates it. Especially considering there are occasionally planes flying overhead.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Ideologue on December 04, 2013, 06:39:26 PM
Quote from: Tamas on December 04, 2013, 06:36:53 PM
Quote from: Ideologue on December 04, 2013, 06:36:20 PM
Maybe they don't have anything to hide. 

I disagree.

The best thing about the UK is its surveillance society.  Soon, all human action and interaction will be transparent and honest and natural.  It'll be great.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: garbon on December 04, 2013, 06:46:09 PM
Quote from: Tamas on December 04, 2013, 06:36:53 PM
Quote from: Ideologue on December 04, 2013, 06:36:20 PM
Maybe they don't have anything to hide. 

I disagree.

Maybe they have a lot to show. :perv:
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: MadImmortalMan on December 04, 2013, 06:59:47 PM
Everybody has something to hide. If only for dignity's sake.

Quote from: 109th Rule of Acquisition
Dignity and an empty sack is worth the sack.

Ok, nevermind.  :P
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Eddie Teach on December 04, 2013, 08:19:06 PM
Ferengi should be clothed at all times. :x
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: The Larch on December 04, 2013, 09:12:41 PM
Quote from: Ideologue on December 04, 2013, 06:36:20 PM
Maybe they don't have anything to hide.  Do you?

Maybe there are people who like to hide from the sun in the early morning. Being waken up at 6 or 7 because blinders or curtains seemed to be some cutting edge development in home refurbishment is not something I was keen on when I was a teenager doing language courses there in the summers.

And the carpeting. THE CARPETING. IN THE BATHROOM.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Ideologue on December 04, 2013, 09:57:51 PM
OK, curtains for denying the sun is fine; and carpet in bathrooms is fucking gross.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Admiral Yi on December 04, 2013, 10:18:42 PM
Fucking Limeys.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: garbon on December 04, 2013, 10:20:36 PM
I feel like I recall some master baths in Southern California, where the sinks are separate from the shower/tub/toilet. The former had carpeting with the latter having tile.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Ideologue on December 04, 2013, 11:45:10 PM
My sink and toilet are both separate from my bathtub.  But I understand that things need to be a little more efficient in an NYC apartment.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: garbon on December 04, 2013, 11:45:56 PM
Quote from: Ideologue on December 04, 2013, 11:45:10 PM
My sink and toilet are both separate from my bathtub.  But I understand that things need to be a little more multifunctional in an NYC apartment.

:P

I meant they were in a separate but adjoining room.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Josquius on December 05, 2013, 12:55:28 AM
Quote from: The Larch on December 04, 2013, 09:12:41 PM
Quote from: Ideologue on December 04, 2013, 06:36:20 PM
Maybe they don't have anything to hide.  Do you?

Maybe there are people who like to hide from the sun in the early morning. Being waken up at 6 or 7 because blinders or curtains seemed to be some cutting edge development in home refurbishment is not something I was keen on when I was a teenager doing language courses there in the summers.

And the carpeting. THE CARPETING. IN THE BATHROOM.
I've never seen a carpeted bathroom in my life.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Ideologue on December 05, 2013, 01:17:23 AM
I know a lot of people who put down mats.  I think that's gross too.

Actually, my bathroom's kind of nasty, but that's laziness, not setting up bacteria traps on purpose.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on December 05, 2013, 03:05:21 AM
Lack of curtains and carpeted bathrooms are, of course, important indicators in the class system. A carpeted bathroom is an indicator of working class origins, the upper echelons of that group, possibly even the lowest members of the middle class. Ordinarily, though, the owner of a house with a carpeted bathroom would also favour lots of curtains..........possibly even those nasty net curtains formerly so essential to the lives of the people living in the no-mans-land between the working and middle classes  :hmm:

Going without curtains is ridiculous of course; so is confined to the upper and upper-middle classes, bohemians and proletarian scum............it is the sort of thing that Boris Johnson would do because if we happened to see his naked body it would be our problem not his.

The Larch's experience of carpeted bathrooms anda lack of curtains can only be explained by a mixed marriage. His landlord and landlady must have come from widely differing social classes.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Gups on December 05, 2013, 03:16:22 AM
Not just a class indicator but an age one as well. Nobody under 50 of whatever class would put carpets in a bathroom these days. 
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on December 05, 2013, 03:22:16 AM
Quote from: Gups on December 05, 2013, 03:16:22 AM
Not just a class indicator but an age one as well. Nobody under 50 of whatever class would put carpets in a bathroom these days.

Yes, I'm sure that is part of it too.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: The Larch on December 05, 2013, 04:42:57 AM
Well, it was in the 90s. And in Ireland.  :P
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Agelastus on December 05, 2013, 06:02:57 AM
Quote from: Gups on December 05, 2013, 03:16:22 AM
Not just a class indicator but an age one as well. Nobody under 50 of whatever class would put carpets in a bathroom these days.

I would.

Carpets and warm feet - good.

Floor and cold feet - bad.

As I discovered when I moved from a house that had a non-carpeted bathroom to one that the previous owners had had carpeted.

I completely fail to understand the fuss here.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Josquius on December 05, 2013, 06:10:48 AM
It does sound lovely on the surface, though thinking deeper it seems a bit...moist.
Mats in a bathroom are a bit of a must though.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: The Larch on December 05, 2013, 08:09:11 AM
A carpeted bathroom must be one of the most unhygienic things ever.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Grey Fox on December 05, 2013, 08:13:28 AM
What about showers in bedrooms?
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: garbon on December 05, 2013, 08:24:06 AM
Quote from: Ideologue on December 05, 2013, 01:17:23 AM
I know a lot of people who put down mats.  I think that's gross too.

Actually, my bathroom's kind of nasty, but that's laziness, not setting up bacteria traps on purpose.

You realize that you can wash mats, right? :huh:

Do you just drip water everywhere?
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Gups on December 05, 2013, 08:59:11 AM
Ugh. Carpentd bathrooms are hideous. Get underfloor heating, a radiator or a pair of slippers.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: The Minsky Moment on December 05, 2013, 10:19:14 AM
Quote from: Agelastus on December 05, 2013, 06:02:57 AM
Floor and cold feet - bad.

Hence radiant heat.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: viper37 on December 05, 2013, 01:03:55 PM
Quote from: Grey Fox on December 05, 2013, 08:13:28 AM
What about showers in bedrooms?
single guy who dates a lot :P
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: The Brain on December 05, 2013, 04:25:35 PM
Wait. When we're talking "carpeted bathrooms" we're talking actual carpets and actual bathrooms?
Title: Eeek.
Post by: mongers on December 05, 2013, 04:42:06 PM
Quote from: The Brain on December 05, 2013, 04:25:35 PM
Wait. When we're talking "carpeted bathrooms" we're talking actual carpets and actual bathrooms?

No it's a euphemism for pubic hair.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Tamas on December 06, 2013, 05:11:01 AM
Quote from: Grey Fox on December 05, 2013, 08:13:28 AM
What about showers in bedrooms?

If you mean bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, those are the greatest design decisions ever considering how many people want to live in and around London, and just how utterly Brits are against buildings which rise above 2 meters.

Ah, that should make the list! Instead of building big tall apartment buildings to house all the people who are now crammed up 6-strangers-per-house in tiny rooms some evil greedy fellow labelled a "bedroom" (think garbon`s place in New York), they keep sticking with these ground level houses, so they can have these "gardens" as they call the tiny pathetic strips of grass they have behind the buildings.

Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Josquius on December 06, 2013, 07:41:13 AM
Blame the land owning gits wanting their property values kept high.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Agelastus on December 06, 2013, 07:47:10 AM
Quote from: Tamas on December 06, 2013, 05:11:01 AM
If you mean bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, those are the greatest design decisions ever considering how many people want to live in and around London, and just how utterly Brits are against buildings which rise above 2 meters.

I'm beginning to feel "un-British"; I believe our future lies in flats. :(

Quote from: Tamas on December 06, 2013, 05:11:01 AMAh, that should make the list! Instead of building big tall apartment buildings to house all the people who are now crammed up 6-strangers-per-house in tiny rooms some evil greedy fellow labelled a "bedroom" (think garbon`s place in New York), they keep sticking with these ground level houses, so they can have these "gardens" as they call the tiny pathetic strips of grass they have behind the buildings.

The concept of "Garden" as applied by the builders of modern housing estates is an abomination. :mad:

Title: Eeek.
Post by: mongers on December 06, 2013, 08:52:05 AM
I think Tamas is going native, he's certainly complaining enough.   :P
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Tamas on December 06, 2013, 08:59:49 AM
Quote from: mongers on December 06, 2013, 08:52:05 AM
I think Tamas is going native, he's certainly complaining enough.   :P

As I said at the start, my opinion on the country is way net positive. But writing about positive stuff is not fun. :P
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: The Larch on December 06, 2013, 10:12:30 AM
Quote from: Tamas on December 06, 2013, 05:11:01 AMAh, that should make the list! Instead of building big tall apartment buildings to house all the people who are now crammed up 6-strangers-per-house in tiny rooms some evil greedy fellow labelled a "bedroom" (think garbon`s place in New York), they keep sticking with these ground level houses, so they can have these "gardens" as they call the tiny pathetic strips of grass they have behind the buildings.

A friend of mine called it the "pretend to live in the countryside while actually living in a city" syndrome.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Tamas on December 06, 2013, 10:15:05 AM
Quote from: The Larch on December 06, 2013, 10:12:30 AM
Quote from: Tamas on December 06, 2013, 05:11:01 AMAh, that should make the list! Instead of building big tall apartment buildings to house all the people who are now crammed up 6-strangers-per-house in tiny rooms some evil greedy fellow labelled a "bedroom" (think garbon`s place in New York), they keep sticking with these ground level houses, so they can have these "gardens" as they call the tiny pathetic strips of grass they have behind the buildings.

A friend of mine called it the "pretend to live in the countryside while actually living in a city" syndrome.

Yeah, but for me, maybe because I had a rural upbringing, the whole thing just makes the difference all the more glaring. I find myself more comfortable within a mountain of concrete when in a city, then a tiny garden/yard that has strict confines rising all around it.

But it is a matter of taste I guess.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: The Larch on December 06, 2013, 10:19:18 AM
I think that it also helps that high rise appartment buildings apparently have some kind of social stigma in the UK.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Gups on December 06, 2013, 10:33:39 AM
People like to have a patch of land of their own they can sit in, grow vegetables in, play games etc.

High rising housing for a long time was social housing and it was dreadfully designed and badly built. It did have a stigma but that has dissipated over the last 10-20 years and there's a lot of high rise, top end housing being build now especially in London.

I personally could not go back to living in a flat.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on December 06, 2013, 04:19:22 PM
I may have spent too much of my childhood and youth abroad, because I also have no idea why the British are so keen on having a pathetic so-called "garden" of minute size  :hmm:

Don't get me wrong, we had an acre when we lived in Suffolk and had some cracking games of family cricket and a couple of decent bonfires on Nov 5th; I loved having that land; but most/many British "gardens" are too small to be of any real use.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Admiral Yi on December 06, 2013, 04:58:03 PM
Tricky, you should introduce the marvelous new technology of "window planter" into your primitive land and we can split the profits.
Title: Eeek.
Post by: mongers on December 06, 2013, 05:45:04 PM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on December 06, 2013, 04:19:22 PM
I may have spent too much of my childhood and youth abroad, because I also have no idea why the British are so keen on having a pathetic so-called "garden" of minute size  :hmm:

Don't get me wrong, we had an acre when we lived in Suffolk and had some cracking games of family cricket and a couple of decent bonfires on Nov 5th; I loved having that land; but most/many British "gardens" are too small to be of any real use.

In a word, Shed/s.  :contract:
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Valmy on December 06, 2013, 05:48:13 PM
So they want a tiny garden just to stick a shed on it?  :hmm:

I figured that was all about the romanticization of the British pastoral lifestyle.
Title: Eeek.
Post by: mongers on December 06, 2013, 05:55:38 PM
Quote from: Valmy on December 06, 2013, 05:48:13 PM
So they want a tiny garden just to stick a shed on it?  :hmm:

I figured that was all about the romanticization of the British pastoral lifestyle.

Marvellous things are invented or bodged together in them; Shedism is an English disease, Tricky probably didn't catch it, because he was off involved in building/dismantling an empire.  :bowler: 
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Ed Anger on December 06, 2013, 06:04:06 PM
I have two sheds.
Title: Eeek.
Post by: mongers on December 06, 2013, 06:30:59 PM
Quote from: Ed Anger on December 06, 2013, 06:04:06 PM
I have two sheds.

I do too.  :cool:
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: citizen k on December 06, 2013, 06:31:40 PM
Quote from: Ed Anger on December 06, 2013, 06:04:06 PM
I have two sheds.

Are they TUFF sheds?

Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: derspiess on December 06, 2013, 06:33:44 PM
Ed "Two Sheds" Anger.  Bet you built the second one just to get that nickname.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Ed Anger on December 06, 2013, 06:48:34 PM
Quote from: derspiess on December 06, 2013, 06:33:44 PM
Ed "Two Sheds" Anger.  Bet you built the second one just to get that nickname.

:)
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Eddie Teach on December 06, 2013, 06:56:23 PM
Quote from: derspiess on December 06, 2013, 06:33:44 PM
Ed "Two Sheds" Anger.  Bet you built the second one just to get that nickname.

He's thinking of building a third.
Title: Eeek.
Post by: mongers on December 06, 2013, 07:05:30 PM
Quote from: Peter Wiggin on December 06, 2013, 06:56:23 PM
Quote from: derspiess on December 06, 2013, 06:33:44 PM
Ed "Two Sheds" Anger.  Bet you built the second one just to get that nickname.

He's thinking of building a third.

Will it be a watershed moment for him ?
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Josquius on December 06, 2013, 08:20:41 PM
Once we had two sheds. Then we built one mega shed.


I don't see the garden thing lasting. Few 20 somethings care and people are ever more mobile. I foresee a future with student yards being the norm
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Admiral Yi on December 06, 2013, 08:49:43 PM
Squeeze if from the aristocracy! :o
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: jimmy olsen on December 06, 2013, 10:59:09 PM
How tiny are these yards?
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: chipwich on December 06, 2013, 11:03:39 PM
Quote from: grumbler on December 03, 2013, 08:57:49 AM


The Brits used (and still use, in many cases) attic or rooftop gravity-feed hot water tanks.  Those tanks aren't inspected, cleaned, etc and so can produce contaminated water unfit for drinking (but still fit for washing with).

Wait does this happen in America?
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Ideologue on December 06, 2013, 11:12:55 PM
Quote from: garbon on December 05, 2013, 08:24:06 AM
Quote from: Ideologue on December 05, 2013, 01:17:23 AM
I know a lot of people who put down mats.  I think that's gross too.

Actually, my bathroom's kind of nasty, but that's laziness, not setting up bacteria traps on purpose.

You realize that you can wash mats, right? :huh:

Do you just drip water everywhere?

I dry off in the shower.
Title: Eeek.
Post by: mongers on December 07, 2013, 09:03:49 AM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on December 06, 2013, 10:59:09 PM
How tiny are these yards?

Have a guess:

53 million of us in 50,000 sq.miles, probably 2/3rd of which agricultural land.

Building land at a minimum of $400,000 in much of the country, so not a lot of that will be given over to garden.

Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Camerus on December 07, 2013, 09:19:42 AM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on December 06, 2013, 04:19:22 PM
I may have spent too much of my childhood and youth abroad, because I also have no idea why the British are so keen on having a pathetic so-called "garden" of minute size  :hmm:

Where were you living?
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on December 07, 2013, 11:15:17 AM
Quote from: Camerus on December 07, 2013, 09:19:42 AM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on December 06, 2013, 04:19:22 PM
I may have spent too much of my childhood and youth abroad, because I also have no idea why the British are so keen on having a pathetic so-called "garden" of minute size  :hmm:

Where were you living?

Hong Kong, Singapore and Germany.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: The Brain on December 07, 2013, 12:12:18 PM
Luge lessons?
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: HVC on December 07, 2013, 12:34:22 PM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on December 06, 2013, 10:59:09 PM
How tiny are these yards?
think postage stamp... then divide by two.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: DGuller on December 07, 2013, 12:43:57 PM
Quote from: HVC on December 07, 2013, 12:34:22 PM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on December 06, 2013, 10:59:09 PM
How tiny are these yards?
think postage stamp... then divide by two.
:hmm: Enough for a couple of blueberries.  :w00t:
Title: Re: Eeek.
Post by: Ideologue on December 07, 2013, 07:48:19 PM
Quote from: mongers on December 07, 2013, 09:03:49 AM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on December 06, 2013, 10:59:09 PM
How tiny are these yards?

Have a guess:

53 million of us in 50,000 sq.miles, probably 2/3rd of which agricultural land.

That's a lot of carpeted bathrooms.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Tamas on January 10, 2014, 10:17:27 AM
So, Brits: aftershave with alcohol in it. Do I need to approach shady dealers in alleyways to find one, or what?
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Josquius on January 10, 2014, 10:21:17 AM
Aftershave only comes as gifts from relatives who have no idea what else to get you, it cannot be bought.
I assume.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on January 10, 2014, 10:24:26 AM
Just drink Scotch like everyone else...........bloomin' foreigners and their weird ways  <_<
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Capetan Mihali on January 10, 2014, 10:39:50 AM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on January 10, 2014, 10:24:26 AM
Just drink Scotch like everyone else...........bloomin' foreigners and their weird ways  <_<

It's some kind of Gorbachev-era nostalgia with these guys. :rolleyes: 
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Tamas on January 10, 2014, 10:40:02 AM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on January 10, 2014, 10:24:26 AM
Just drink Scotch like everyone else...........bloomin' foreigners and their weird ways  <_<

:rolleyes:

Seriously though, shop is full of these creams and balms and whatevs. Where is the stuff with nice sanitizing alcohol in it?!  :mad:
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Capetan Mihali on January 10, 2014, 10:43:49 AM
I think you should take it as a signal to stop drying your face out with that alcohol crap.  I know slapping it on is fun, but it's bad for your skin.  And I think people tend to feel it smells cheap.

Oh yeah, and what's the beet-joke angle on this..?  :hmm:
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on January 10, 2014, 10:45:16 AM
I don't use it so don't really know, at a guess you should try Boots the chemist's which is usually a good place for all that sort of thing.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Brazen on January 10, 2014, 11:24:33 AM
Quote from: Tamas on January 10, 2014, 10:40:02 AM
Seriously though, shop is full of these creams and balms and whatevs. Where is the stuff with nice sanitizing alcohol in it?!  :mad:
Boots. The classy stuff is in the glass cabinets next to the women's perfume. The basic stuff is by the razors and men's shower gel/deodorant etc.

http://www.boots.com/en/Men/Mens-Toiletries/Shaving/Aftershave/ (http://www.boots.com/en/Men/Mens-Toiletries/Shaving/Aftershave/)

Superdrug's sometimes a bit cheaper:
http://www.superdrug.com/mens/aftershave-for-men/icat/mens-aftershave (http://www.superdrug.com/mens/aftershave-for-men/icat/mens-aftershave)

Or the 99p shop does some really basic face-slapping sanitising stuff!
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Grey Fox on January 10, 2014, 11:29:12 AM
You do the manly thing & grow a proper beard, damn it.


Talking beard, I need a trim. I look like a cave man.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Valmy on January 10, 2014, 11:38:29 AM
Quote from: Grey Fox on January 10, 2014, 11:29:12 AM
You do the manly thing & grow a proper beard, damn it.


Talking beard, I need a trim. I look like a cave man.

Not everybody is a French Canadian trapper roaming through the frozen northern wildernesses.

Which one of these guys is you?

(https://languish.org/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Foi41.tinypic.com%2F11hw6yb.jpg&hash=031c0734641f0d81b040eeb0367755020fee664f)


Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Barrister on January 10, 2014, 12:22:10 PM
Quote from: Grey Fox on January 10, 2014, 11:29:12 AM
You do the manly thing & grow a proper beard, damn it.


Talking beard, I need a trim. I look like a cave man.

A beard?

GF has gone even more hipster. :(
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Grey Fox on January 10, 2014, 12:31:40 PM
Beards are hipster? Damn it.

@Valmy Dude with white shirt but darker hair.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Valmy on January 10, 2014, 12:31:49 PM
Quote from: Barrister on January 10, 2014, 12:22:10 PM
A beard?

GF has gone even more hipster. :(

French Canadians grew beards before it was cool.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Admiral Yi on January 10, 2014, 12:33:42 PM
Are we talking al Qaeda/Amish beard or hipster stubble beard?
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Barrister on January 10, 2014, 12:42:11 PM
Quote from: Admiral Yi on January 10, 2014, 12:33:42 PM
Are we talking al Qaeda/Amish beard or hipster stubble beard?

stubble beards went mainstream.  Hipsters are looking like someone out of Duck Dynasty these days.

https://www.google.ca/search?site=&tbm=isch&source=hp&biw=1680&bih=949&q=hipster+beard&oq=hipster+beard&gs_l=img.3..0l10.1189.2664.0.2959.13.12.0.1.1.1.133.1066.8j4.12.0....0...1ac.1.32.img..2.11.852.yQhxuvZ6AUU
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Grey Fox on January 10, 2014, 12:48:13 PM
Well shit.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Maximus on January 10, 2014, 01:57:44 PM
Almost every man looks better with some sort of beard, fashion be damned. I say "almost" because some are physically incapable of growing anything that doesn't look like a joke.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Jacob on January 10, 2014, 02:02:49 PM
Quote from: Maximus on January 10, 2014, 01:57:44 PM
Almost every man looks better with some sort of beard, fashion be damned. I say "almost" because some are physically incapable of growing anything that doesn't look like a joke.

I guess now we know what to do if we want to try to steal you away from Meri.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Syt on January 11, 2014, 01:05:42 AM
Quote from: Maximus on January 10, 2014, 01:57:44 PM
I say "almost" because some are physically incapable of growing anything that doesn't look like a joke.

:weep:

The only place where it grows properly for me is the chin. Otherwise it's thin, wispy or has "gaps" in it. :(
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Ed Anger on January 11, 2014, 08:00:11 AM
I have a full manly beard right now. None of that stubble shit.

Sadly, the gray is spreading.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: garbon on January 11, 2014, 08:08:46 AM
Quote from: Maximus on January 10, 2014, 01:57:44 PM
Almost every man looks better with some sort of beard, fashion be damned. I say "almost" because some are physically incapable of growing anything that doesn't look like a joke.

:hug:
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Tamas on January 11, 2014, 09:11:05 AM
I have been experimenting with a beard, actually. After two weeks, results are not really convincing, although could be worse I guess. Might remain, severely trimmed, but I'll just probably give in to the proven fact that a shaved faced man is superior.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Eddie Teach on January 11, 2014, 09:14:35 AM
Two week old beards are extremely itchy.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: The Brain on January 11, 2014, 09:21:06 AM
Quote from: Peter Wiggin on January 11, 2014, 09:14:35 AM
Two week old beards are extremely itchy.

OK, Ed.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Tamas on January 11, 2014, 09:22:05 AM
Quote from: Peter Wiggin on January 11, 2014, 09:14:35 AM
Two week old beards are extremely itchy.

well maybe mine isn't long enough for that :P Although I read up a bit before I started so I have been very prudent on making sure I clean it thoroughly :P
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Tonitrus on January 11, 2014, 09:39:42 AM
Quote from: Ed Anger on January 11, 2014, 08:00:11 AM
I have a full manly beard right now. None of that stubble shit.

Sadly, the gray is spreading.

(https://languish.org/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.vanityfair.com%2Fonline%2Fdaily%2F2013%2F08%2Forson-welles-bitchy-gossip-book%2F.i.1.orson-welles-peter-biskind-bruce-handy.jpg&hash=543050f3fc4c561c8f25b6244ba82c528231cf6c)
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Ed Anger on January 11, 2014, 09:44:33 AM
My chin hair is about 75% gray now.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: The Larch on January 11, 2014, 10:00:36 AM
(https://languish.org/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.onlygoodmovies.com%2Fblog%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2010%2F07%2Fmel-gibson-crazy-beard.jpg&hash=5854559e88be9c8fd526178ea10176de8379b890)
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Ed Anger on January 11, 2014, 10:01:13 AM
Close enough.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Grey Fox on January 11, 2014, 10:27:15 AM
Quote from: Peter Wiggin on January 11, 2014, 09:14:35 AM
Two week old beards are extremely itchy.

Yes.

Having a serious beard also up your napkin/towels usage too.

Also, dust.  :lol:
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: garbon on January 11, 2014, 10:43:25 AM
I am concerned that if I let mine grow further out, I will look like a mufti. :(
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: LaCroix on January 11, 2014, 12:35:01 PM
most people my age, 25ish, sporting a beard look absolutely ridiculous. some can pull it off, but not many
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Agelastus on January 11, 2014, 04:45:46 PM
Quote from: Peter Wiggin on January 11, 2014, 09:14:35 AM
Two week old beards are extremely itchy.

Never had a problem with itching the few times I've tried to grow a beard.

My problem is it grows in about 50% or more thicker one side than the other, which is noticeable. :(
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Maximus on January 11, 2014, 06:21:48 PM
Quote from: Syt on January 11, 2014, 01:05:42 AM
Quote from: Maximus on January 10, 2014, 01:57:44 PM
I say "almost" because some are physically incapable of growing anything that doesn't look like a joke.

:weep:

The only place where it grows properly for me is the chin. Otherwise it's thin, wispy or has "gaps" in it. :(

Mine grows everywhere but on the chin. Hence the chops.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Razgovory on January 11, 2014, 06:37:53 PM
When I grow a beard people mistake me for a rabbi.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Grey Fox on January 11, 2014, 09:32:40 PM
I look Amish. I need one of those hat.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: DontSayBanana on January 11, 2014, 11:36:36 PM
Quote from: Syt on January 11, 2014, 01:05:42 AM
:weep:

The only place where it grows properly for me is the chin. Otherwise it's thin, wispy or has "gaps" in it. :(

:console: You and me both.  Hell, I don't even get the full circle goatee + mustache.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Syt on January 12, 2014, 12:46:15 AM
Quote from: DontSayBanana on January 11, 2014, 11:36:36 PM
Quote from: Syt on January 11, 2014, 01:05:42 AM
:weep:

The only place where it grows properly for me is the chin. Otherwise it's thin, wispy or has "gaps" in it. :(

:console: You and me both.  Hell, I don't even get the full circle goatee + mustache.

Yep, gaps between the 'stache and the goatee. Besides, my "mustache" is not as thick as the hair on the chin. And light blond on the sides and dark in the center.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Tamas on January 13, 2014, 08:15:57 AM
Quote from: Brazen on January 10, 2014, 11:24:33 AM
Quote from: Tamas on January 10, 2014, 10:40:02 AM
Seriously though, shop is full of these creams and balms and whatevs. Where is the stuff with nice sanitizing alcohol in it?!  :mad:
Boots. The classy stuff is in the glass cabinets next to the women's perfume. The basic stuff is by the razors and men's shower gel/deodorant etc.

http://www.boots.com/en/Men/Mens-Toiletries/Shaving/Aftershave/ (http://www.boots.com/en/Men/Mens-Toiletries/Shaving/Aftershave/)

Superdrug's sometimes a bit cheaper:
http://www.superdrug.com/mens/aftershave-for-men/icat/mens-aftershave (http://www.superdrug.com/mens/aftershave-for-men/icat/mens-aftershave)

Or the 99p shop does some really basic face-slapping sanitising stuff!

Thanks, B. :)
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: sbr on January 13, 2014, 08:58:11 AM
I've never used aftershave.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Tamas on April 21, 2014, 11:59:59 AM
I bought my first national lottery ticket recently. Since now winning the jackpot is only a matter of time I must ask: I am eligible to win it, right?
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Sheilbh on April 21, 2014, 12:01:35 PM
:lol: Yes.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Caliga on April 21, 2014, 12:02:27 PM
Quote from: Tamas on April 21, 2014, 11:59:59 AM
I bought my first national lottery ticket recently. Since now winning the jackpot is only a matter of time I must ask: I am eligible to win it, right?
:nelson: You're poor.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on April 21, 2014, 02:51:00 PM
Quote from: Tamas on April 21, 2014, 11:59:59 AM
I bought my first national lottery ticket recently. Since now winning the jackpot is only a matter of time I must ask: I am eligible to win it, right?

I don't buy the national lottery tickets as the prizes are too paltry. Instead, whenever the Euromillions jackpot has gone up to over £100m I buy one of those.

Just so you know, there are no taxes whatsoever on lottery winnings; should you win £10m or so it will all be yours  :cool:
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Valmy on April 21, 2014, 02:52:42 PM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on April 21, 2014, 02:51:00 PM
I don't buy the national lottery tickets as the prizes are too paltry. Instead, whenever the Euromillions jackpot has gone up to over £100m I buy one of those.

Yeah but then you are competing with every Finn, Slovak, and Romanian with money to burn right?  Granted your chances are not that much worse.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on April 21, 2014, 02:55:48 PM
Quote from: Valmy on April 21, 2014, 02:52:42 PM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on April 21, 2014, 02:51:00 PM
I don't buy the national lottery tickets as the prizes are too paltry. Instead, whenever the Euromillions jackpot has gone up to over £100m I buy one of those.

Yeah but then you are competing with every Finn, Slovak, and Romanian with money to burn right?  Granted your chances are not that much worse.

Yes, but if I missed out on winning a few million I might be disappointed. Not winning £100m usually gives me a sense of relief.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: DGuller on April 21, 2014, 02:58:03 PM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on April 21, 2014, 02:51:00 PM
Just so you know, there are no taxes whatsoever on lottery winnings; should you win £10m or so it will all be yours  :cool:
With ridiculous tax breaks like that, why aren't more people winning the lottery?
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on April 21, 2014, 03:00:28 PM
Quote from: DGuller on April 21, 2014, 02:58:03 PM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on April 21, 2014, 02:51:00 PM
Just so you know, there are no taxes whatsoever on lottery winnings; should you win £10m or so it will all be yours  :cool:
With ridiculous tax breaks like that, why aren't more people winning the lottery?

Hmmm..........this is an actuary joke isn't it?

Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Josquius on April 21, 2014, 08:33:49 PM
A friend once got 5 numbers on the lottery, he was so happy... Until he found out that several hundred other people also did and rather than the hundreds of thousands he was expecting he got only around a thousand
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: DGuller on April 21, 2014, 08:50:44 PM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on April 21, 2014, 03:00:28 PM
Quote from: DGuller on April 21, 2014, 02:58:03 PM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on April 21, 2014, 02:51:00 PM
Just so you know, there are no taxes whatsoever on lottery winnings; should you win £10m or so it will all be yours  :cool:
With ridiculous tax breaks like that, why aren't more people winning the lottery?

Hmmm..........this is an actuary joke isn't it?
Why are you phrasing it like it's a bad thing?  :(
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Tamas on April 01, 2015, 05:21:36 AM
So I live in a tiny (but cozy) studio flat now.

I need to decide if I want to switch electricty and gas away from British Gas. There is a shitload of providers with seemingly minor differences in prices. What are the most common traps I should be aware of? Beside cancellation fees. I am looking at living in this place for 7-8 months, but longer is not off the cards entirely.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: garbon on April 01, 2015, 05:47:48 AM
Quote from: Tamas on April 01, 2015, 05:21:36 AM
So I live in a tiny (but cozy) studio flat now.

I need to decide if I want to switch electricty and gas away from British Gas. There is a shitload of providers with seemingly minor differences in prices. What are the most common traps I should be aware of? Beside cancellation fees. I am looking at living in this place for 7-8 months, but longer is not off the cards entirely.

Today, my minion told me to look at this site - http://www.uswitch.com/

She told me that she generally stays away from British Gas as they tend to be more expensive.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on April 01, 2015, 06:02:17 AM
There are all kinds of complicated rates, if you don't know your actual consumption then it will be hard to pick the right one.

For 7 or 8 months with an unknown consumption rate it is probably not worth it.

(I check every now and then and have switched twice in 10 years, but we get through a fair amount of gas and electricity here so it was worth it).
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Gups on April 01, 2015, 06:06:23 AM
Quote from: Tamas on April 01, 2015, 05:21:36 AM
So I live in a tiny (but cozy) studio flat now.

I need to decide if I want to switch electricty and gas away from British Gas. There is a shitload of providers with seemingly minor differences in prices. What are the most common traps I should be aware of? Beside cancellation fees. I am looking at living in this place for 7-8 months, but longer is not off the cards entirely.

We switched to Ovo a couple of years ago from British Gas and pay about half of what we used to. So far they've been excellent.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Tamas on April 01, 2015, 06:33:15 AM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on April 01, 2015, 06:02:17 AM
There are all kinds of complicated rates, if you don't know your actual consumption then it will be hard to pick the right one.

For 7 or 8 months with an unknown consumption rate it is probably not worth it.

(I check every now and then and have switched twice in 10 years, but we get through a fair amount of gas and electricity here so it was worth it).

I agree I probably shouldn't overthink it for this time frame, and I should stay away from more complicated packages. On the other hand, checking out comparison sites, it seems it is pretty easy to get something considerably cheaper than British Gas.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on April 01, 2015, 07:32:06 AM
Maybe just go for Ovo then, like Gups I've been using them for a couple of years and they seem to have good prices.

Their bills are also more comprehensible than most.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Grey Fox on April 01, 2015, 07:36:32 AM
This must be the most British conversation Languish has ever had.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: garbon on April 01, 2015, 07:38:54 AM
Quote from: Grey Fox on April 01, 2015, 07:36:32 AM
This must be the most British conversation Languish has ever had.

A discussion on energy suppliers? :unsure:
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Grey Fox on April 01, 2015, 07:41:25 AM
Quote from: garbon on April 01, 2015, 07:38:54 AM
Quote from: Grey Fox on April 01, 2015, 07:36:32 AM
This must be the most British conversation Languish has ever had.

A discussion on energy suppliers? :unsure:

Yes, that's totally alien to me.

I don't recall any conversations on the same subject from Americans(in America), I always assumed most of the US is just regional energy monopolies.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: garbon on April 01, 2015, 07:42:44 AM
Quote from: Grey Fox on April 01, 2015, 07:41:25 AM
Quote from: garbon on April 01, 2015, 07:38:54 AM
Quote from: Grey Fox on April 01, 2015, 07:36:32 AM
This must be the most British conversation Languish has ever had.

A discussion on energy suppliers? :unsure:

Yes, that's totally alien to me.

I don't recall any conversations on the same subject from Americans(in America), I always assumed most of the US is just regional energy monopolies.

Yeah the only one thing I had in New York was that I could choose to have a different energy provider provide my electric. Still would go through ConEdison's lines but charge could be from another company. Was quite bewildering and I never knew what was better.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Tamas on April 01, 2015, 08:17:14 AM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on April 01, 2015, 07:32:06 AM
Maybe just go for Ovo then, like Gups I've been using them for a couple of years and they seem to have good prices.

Their bills are also more comprehensible than most.

Yeah, knowing they are (relatively) comprehensible and have been used by you guys made me sign up with them. I could have saved 2-4 pounds a month by some other provider, but I went for not totally unkown territory instead. :)

Thanks!
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Ed Anger on April 01, 2015, 10:08:53 AM
At least y'all don't get the door to door salesmen pushing you to switch suppliers.

Had a black lady do her sassy attitude thing when I told her to get off my property. She actually tried to refuse to. Hilarious.

FUCKING IGS
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Brazen on April 01, 2015, 12:18:05 PM
I use USwitch whenever my bills go up. If you have previous bills they'll find the cheapest provider and price plan for your actual usage. Go dual energy if you can. Often if you call your current provider with the offer they'll meet or better it.
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: DGuller on April 01, 2015, 01:48:43 PM
US witch?  :hmm:
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Malthus on April 01, 2015, 02:08:13 PM
Quote from: DGuller on April 01, 2015, 01:48:43 PM
US witch?  :hmm:

Who else better to put a curse on those pesky utilities when your bills go up?
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: garbon on April 01, 2015, 04:33:56 PM
Quote from: DGuller on April 01, 2015, 01:48:43 PM
US witch?  :hmm:

Clearly what I previously linked to. :smarty:
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: Josquius on April 06, 2015, 05:25:34 PM
This multiple utility provider thing just confuses me. It's the same gas from the same place via the same pipes yet somehow there are several dozen companies that can sell it to you?
I just don't get it
Title: Re: Cultural Learnings Of United Kingdom To Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Hungary
Post by: grumbler on April 06, 2015, 07:02:47 PM
Quote from: Tyr on April 06, 2015, 05:25:34 PM
This multiple utility provider thing just confuses me. It's the same gas from the same place via the same pipes yet somehow there are several dozen companies that can sell it to you?
I just don't get it

Is it the same gas from the same place?