How to offend a Brit

When traveling to a different country, I try to be considerate and aware of that country's social rules, norms, and manners.

When I traveled to Israel, I made sure to bring modest clothing for visits to religious sites. I didn't loudly ask for a ham and cheese sandwich at the kosher deli. I learned how to say "thank you" in Hebrew in an attempt to show respect.

In England, I've made sure not to say anything mocking royalty. I haven't made snarky remarks regarding the American Revolution, and I certainly haven't commented on anyone's teeth.

However, today I made what was apparently a pretty serious faux pas.

I got dirty looks.

I overheard people making angry, offended-sounding comments about me.

My crime?

Wearing sunglasses on a cloudy day.

To be fair, when it was just cloudy, I only got a few weird looks.

The really dirty looks and incredulous comments started when it started to drizzle and I put up my umbrella.

Now, I had legit reasons. I don't usually carry a case for my sunglasses, and I didn't want to just throw them in my bag. Also, I don't like wearing them on my head as they often fall off.

More importantly, I just like wearing sunglasses. It's kind of my thing. It keeps me from having to make eye contact with people and (hopefully) prevents eye wrinkles from squinting. You know how some people feel naked if they go out without a watch? I feel naked if I go out without sunglasses. Or pants. But that's a story for another day.

For the record, wearing sunglasses in the rain is pretty artsy. For instance, on this site you can download this picture of a fashionable girl wearing sunglasses in the rain.

And this company (a BRITISH company, no less!) actually gives away a free umbrella with every pair of sunglasses purchased.

Coincidence? I think not.

In conclusion; be nice. If the worst thing you saw someone do all day was wear sunglasses in the rain, I'd say you're living a damned good life.