Travel blog

The Ffestiniog Railroad is the oldest surviving railroad company in the world, employing a vintage steam engine in operation since 1832. Located in Gwynedd, Wales inside the Snowdonia National Park, this narrow-gauge heritage railway was created to run slate from the small mining town of Blaenau Ffestiniog to the Welsh coast to be loaded onto ships for export.

While Americans and Brits claim to speak the same language, all it takes is five minutes in the pub to realize the English speak English in a very different way. From street talk to slang, there’s plenty of sayings that are sure to confound those of us from across the pond. Here are just a few common British words and phrases that will help us understand our British brethren a wee bit better:

Wales is a wild country, and dramatic coastlines, lush forests and plunging waterfalls await you in this fascinating corner of Great Britain. Before you pack your bags to head to this rugged paradise, there are a few tips and interesting facts you’ll need to know: 

The British monarchy is in the middle of a hot streak. The princes have turned out quite nicely—handsome young men who inherited their mother’s love for good deeds and settled down with lovely women. The family’s been remarkably scandal-free—appearing in the news only to dedicate African orphanages or to graciously deflect compliments about Kate’s hair. Add to that the success of Netflix’s The Crown, E!’s The Royals, the upcoming marriage of Harry, and the relative quiet of the dreaded former in-law Fergie, and you would be safe in saying that the royal family is enjoying a true renaissance.