Is There a Part of Great Britain That Is Most Similar to America?
When thinking about the similarity between different parts of Great Britain and the United States, several locations come to mind. One notable base is RAF Mildenhall in Suffolk, England, which has a unique American flavor that makes it feel distinctly American. In contrast, Milton Keynes offers a grid system inspired by America and the futuristic Starship robot delivery service. However, it's important to note that no part of England fully replicates the way of life in the United States, given the tight adherence to laws and the cultural differences.
RAF Mildenhall: A Sense of America in England
Location: RAF Mildenhall is situated in Suffolk, England, and it houses four major American commands: Air Combat Command, Air Force Special Operations Command, Air Mobility Command, and U.S. Air Forces in Europe. The 100th Air Refueling Wing is the only permanent U.S. air refuelling wing in Europe.
The last airshow held at RAF Mildenhall in 2001 provided a true American experience. The road driving direction is reversed, with vehicles being larger and wider, and the currency used is the American dollar. The local accents are unmistakably American, and the food served is genuine American cuisine. Being on base all day while everyone wears military uniforms and celebrates with American flags makes the atmosphere feel like being in America. The absence of a nearby Costco in the local area makes a two-hour drive to Leeds for shopping a necessary part of life, akin to long trips to grocery stores in the U.S.
Milton Keynes: American Charm in Grid Layout
While RAF Mildenhall offers an American base experience, exploring Milton Keynes will give you an American-feeling layout in the form of its road system. Known for its American-style grid system, Milton Keynes is similar to many American cities in terms of street layout. Additionally, the introduction of Starship robot delivery service in Milton Keynes mirrors the innovation seen in American cities, making everyday life more technologically advanced.
No Part of England is Similar to the U.S. – Except for Croughton
Some might argue that Croughton in Northamptonshire could be considered an exception. Situated on a military base, it presents a scenario where a person might drive on the wrong side of the road, causing a tragic incident and escaping prosecution due to connections. This highlights how life on a military base can feel somewhat different compared to the rest of England, as it often enforces U.S. military practices and culture.
Nonetheless, despite these unique locations, no part of England truly replicates the living experience in the United States, given the stringent gun control laws, the rights of women, the absence of censorship, the uniformed police system, the universal healthcare, and the democratic electoral process.