When you move somewhere, you tend to notice things that are contrasting to what you are used to. Depending on the situation, these differences in customs and day to day life can vary significantly. Obviously, if you moved like, an hour away from where you used to live, there isn’t much of a difference. But moving to another country is a different story. Some things you obviously pick up on right away, like a different currency, language, or accent; other things, you notice only as time goes on, as you become accustomed to your surroundings. And I’m noticing that more and more since coming to England. Obviously, it’s COMPLETELY different from the United States. I’ve started to notice that the area I live in, Essex, is even more different than what I expected. It’s unlike anything else I’ve seen since I came here.
As a bit of background, I previously spent 6 months living here last year in a city called Norwich. That set the basis for life for me here. I lived in a quiet area, and a 20 minute walk led me to the charming city centre whenever I pleased. And at times, I honestly felt like I was still living in a small town/city in America (well, if I didn’t hear anyone speak). When I came back, we moved to the Essex area, and it’s wayyy different from Norwich. Yet it weirdly reminds me of New Jersey, somehow? I don’t know, the place just baffles me. Also, just want to note that obviously I’m not familiar with EVERY area of Essex – just some of the areas around me. And yea, still the new kid here, so maybe take some of the things I say with a grain of salt.
For one, the Essex accent is like no other. When I first met my husband, I was *obviously* in love with his accent (what American girl isn’t a sucker for a posh British accent?). Learning that Steve was from the area we moved to, I expected everyone to have his beautiful, eloquent accent. Welp, I was wrong. If you want to hear what an Essex accent sounds like, just watch an episode of The Only Way is Essex – or, as people refer to it, TOWIE. Actually, just watch it to see EXACTLY what living in Essex is like – it will save me a lot of time trying to explain. That show has brought fame (or infamy?) to Essex, causing the area’s rep to skyrocket. Is that a good or bad thing? I have no clue.
I’m also noticing that there is a specific “look” to the area. On our day to day outings, we often go out and about to places such as Woodford Green, Wanstead, and Loughton, to name a few. Oh, by the way, I LOVE Loughton. Shoutout to Molen’s and their bangin Chai Lattes. Whenever we’re out, I can’t help but notice that everyone here is tan (both men and women; and yes, I’ve jumped on the bandwagon a bit). Whether it be spray tan, sunbed tan, or self-tanning lotions (or various combinations of all three), people from Essex love having that sun-kissed glow. Okay, some of them go beyond “sun-kissed”, but you get my point.
Women always have their hair and makeup perfectly done, regardless of what time it is or where they are going. Everyone flaunts their money in the form of fine clothes, shoes, and accessories. They live and work for the weekend, and make any excuse to go out and party.
Essex seems to give off a pretty superficial vibe, if I’m honest. And, in ways, I sometimes feel immense pressure to “fit in”. Maybe it’s because I’m still feeling as though I’m an “outsider” here, and it shows in the way I look, act, and talk. I feel the need to indulge in the high-maintenance lifestyle that consumes everyone’s lives here.
But, beyond the superficial first impression you receive from Essex, it has it’s many redeeming qualities. The people are friendly. Living in Essex means basically living right next door to Central London – just hop on the tube and in no time, you’re in the city. You can enjoy the excitement of the city whenever you want, while still maintaining a quiet, suburban life. There’s beautiful Epping Forest, which is perfect if you’re the outdoorsy type (I’m not, but the drives through some places in Epping are gorgeous). There are beautiful coastlines, and Southend is home to the world’s largest pier.
It seems like there is something here for everyone, which probably adds to the appeal of living here – regardless of whether you love fake tan or not.
Hopefully I don’t feel like the new kid for too long.
xx Lauren
