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A Life Away

Things I Still Buy in the US

Published about 2 months ago • 2 min read

Hi friend!

I'm spending a few weeks in the US this summer to visit family and friends back home. The trip is coming up soon, so I've been making a list of things I want to pick up while we are there.

For the most part, I've found a lot of replacements for my favorite American things in the UK. (Hint: Goat Rodeo Goods even solved the complete lack of good dill pickles).

The things I can't replace will be indulged in at every opportunity. My family still asks me what I want to eat when I visit as if the answer isn't immediately Mexican food.

But after the indulging, there will be a few things I still stock up on to bring back with me. Here's my list in no particular order:

  • Cheez-its and Goldfish. Our family loves them. You can find a version of Cheez-its in the UK, but they're gross.
  • Tylenol. I buy the big bottle because similar painkillers here are sold only in very small packages.
  • Melatonin gummies. I like these to combat jet lag and the occasional midnight existensial dread. In the UK, melatonin is available by prescription only.
  • Jalapeno salt. I won't be buying this on this trip because my brother brought us a huge container recently, but I love this stuff to jazz up my British food with zero effort.
  • Trader Joe's goodies. We will definitely visit our old favorite grocery shop and go where inspiration strikes with our purchases.

To see more things that Americans tend to miss in the UK, check out my article 23 Things Americans Should Bring When Moving to the UK.

The Witchiest Town in England

Looking for a unique town to visit, filled with witchy shops and occasionally wandered by ponies?

Take a look at Burley in the New Forest.

The village is filled with thatched cottages, independent shops, and free-roaming ponies and cattle that wander right through the village.

Burley is also known for its unusual history. In the 1950s, a self-proclaimed white witch named Sybil Leek lived here and helped give the village its enduring connection to witchcraft and folklore. Add in tales of smugglers, hidden cellars, and even a local dragon legend.

This would be a great stop on a British road trip, or you can get here by train and bus from London in 2-3 hours.

That's all for now, but I'll see you next week!

Victoria

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A Life Away

Thinking of traveling to the UK, or even moving here someday? I'm here to help. I’m Victoria, an American who’s made the leap across the pond not once, but twice. I created A Life Away to help fellow Americans experience the UK more confidently, whether you're planning a dream trip, a scouting visit, or a full-on relocation. This newsletter is for you if you want real-life advice, honest insights, and inspiration for your UK adventure.

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