An experienced London tour guide has lifted the lid on the burning questions American visitors have about the British Royal Family, revealing a surprising focus that bypasses the Prince and Princess of Wales.
Harry and Meghan Dominate American Inquiries
Will Hide, a travel writer for the Daily Telegraph and a qualified Blue Badge Tourist Guide, reports that conversations with US guests are overwhelmingly dominated by the Royal Family. However, the central figures of their curiosity are not Prince William or Kate Middleton.
The most frequent questions, by far, concern Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Interestingly, Hide notes that while the couple are a constant topic, few of his American guests express themselves as fans of the latter. He also observed that, so far, not a single tourist has asked about Prince Andrew, suggesting the topic might remain "too raw".
US Tourists: Curious, Polite, and Direct
Since qualifying for his prestigious Blue Badge, Hide says the majority of his clients have been American, reflecting broader tourism trends. Statistics from Statista confirm that the United States is the UK's top source of tourists, with a significant 5.59 million US visitors travelling to Britain in 2024.
Hide describes guiding Americans as "an absolute joy," praising their polite and curious nature. He highlights a distinct cultural difference: unlike the stereotypically stoic British response to problems, American tourists are quick to voice concerns when something is not right.
From Sausage Rolls to the Tube: US Favourites in London
The guide's insights extend beyond royal gossip. He notes that while the classic fish and chips meal remains a firm favourite, another British staple has won American hearts: the Greggs sausage roll has seen its popularity surge across the Atlantic.
Another aspect of London life receiving almost universal acclaim from US visitors is the London Underground. Hide wryly suggests that anyone familiar with the New York Metro might understand why the Tube's efficiency is so appreciated.
This light-hearted look at tourist preferences follows a darker revelation from a former guide. A student named Jessica O'Nelil, who led Jack the Ripper tours in 2014, recently explained why she quit. She became uncomfortable with tourists dressing as the infamous killer and was once confronted and accused of misrepresenting victim Polly Nichols, which prompted her to stop.
