Things I Didn’t Know About Londons Phone Booths
The red famous Londons phone booths are a well known symbol of the UK around the world. During my stay in London, I was able to experience first hand. They are an unique symbol of British culture, just as fish and chips or Tea. Here are some things I didn’t know about them and got to experience upon my visit!
1. The boxes are empty
I bet you didn’t know they are just a box?!
Believe it or not, once used as telephone booths, now they are only here for decoration.
Not that we need one nowadays with technology being what it is… They have passed to be a decorative, non-functional artifact.
Some of the London phone booths I was able to get inside didn’t even have a phone at all! It was just an empty box…. and If you happen to find one with a working phone you are in luck!
But still great props for pictures! #doitforthegram
2. They stink
It didn’t even crossed my mind that people would use these as an alternative to bathrooms. Once inside for the mandatory picture, you will certainly encounter the most disgusting smell, maybe, of your trip! (urine, pipi, or miao however you’d like to call it.) I was shocked when the smell hit my nozzles, like dude! Is this fo real?
Here I was thinking I’d only experienced this in NYC but London you got me fooled.
So if you dare to go inside, BEWARE of the stench!
*My basic self posing for the ‘gram, while holding my breath. [Please insert mean joke here.]
3. There’s one on every corner
You don’t have to go too far to find one of these iconic red boxes. London phone booths are literally in every touristy spot possible.
4. You won’t find any native Londoner near one (specially if you are looking for your English boo).
I know, I know what you are thinking…. Probably disappointed to hear this. You were expecting to find your Harry, James Bond, Keira Knightley, near one of these and that he showed you how to use one… Sorry to burst your bubble!
Only tourists dare to get near one, especially knowing about their particular “scent”.
The locals know better!
Besides having that smelly experience, I certainly enjoyed my time in London with plenty of more pleasant experiences to share about the British culture!
(Disclaimer: This is only applicable to London, as I did not visit more cities in the UK, nor did I check ALL the red boxes around the city).
Which cities have you been to that are particularly stinky? Like literally smell? But are still cute though…
Share in the comments!
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