I found myself invited to a reception celebrating “fabulous female leaders” at the US Ambassador’s residence. The dress code was “business,” but the notorious differences between American and British formal wear had me scrambling. A frantic online search for “diplomatic fashion faux pas” ensued, but I quickly remembered that these events are all about fostering cross-cultural understanding. Embracing the concept of “fashion diplomacy,” I opted for an outfit by The Row, a US brand, as a subtle nod to Anglo-American relations.
The “Special Relationship” and London’s Lost Cachet
Arriving at Winfield House, the Ambassador’s residence in Regent’s Park, I was surrounded by dignitaries, charity executives, and artists. The setting prompted me to ponder the current state of the UK-US “special relationship.” President Joe Biden, despite his aides’ denials, has been accused of harboring animosity towards the UK. His absence at King Charles’ Coronation only fueled the gossip amongst certain establishment figures. But honestly, who can blame him? Recently, a friend and I realized that whenever we meet people who have recently moved to London, our automatic reaction is a horrified, “Why?” followed by a litany of reasons why they shouldn’t have.
The weather, the astronomical cost of living, the lack of affordable housing, and the steady decline of public services all contribute to a pervasive sense of misery that seems to permeate every facet of London life. We, as ambassadors for this great city, are struggling to find reasons to feel optimistic. It wasn’t always like this. Lately, it feels as though Britain, and London in particular, has lost its cultural cachet. Post-Brexit, we are no longer viewed as a cosmopolitan, desirable nation worthy of cultivating relationships with. Gone are the days of breezing through passport control on our way to a Spanish beach. Instead, I am met with sympathetic tuts from other travelers when they hear my accent. I have become an emissary from a nation that has, quite literally, hoisted itself by its own petard.
A Prescription for Revitalization: From Nightlife to Housing
So what is the solution? I have some thoughts. First, we need actual, proper nightlife, and more late-night venues. It is laughable that in a major global city, everything shuts down by 11 pm. No more 10:30 pm last orders! We also need more free public spaces. There are far too few places in London where you can meet friends without having to remortgage your home to buy an overpriced latte. Parks only work for a few months out of the year, and pubs aren’t for everyone. And speaking of mortgages, or rather housing, we need subsidized artist living. Writers, poets, musicians, and creative individuals should be able to apply for truly affordable housing. This would foster a more diverse creative industry, one of London’s greatest exports.
Finally, I propose some sort of cultural exchange program, similar to Erasmus, but for adults, minus the questionable rat-tail hairdos. This city thrives on new influences. Job swaps, travel stipends, I don’t know – someone else can figure out the details. I’m more of an ideas guy. London has always been a city of immigrants, and the recent exodus of foreign workers has been disastrous. Without them, we are in danger of losing our lifeblood and the soul of this city, its essential identity.
So there’s my electoral ticket: cheaper housing and better nights out. Where do I apply to be Ambassador of Fun?
