Also, another thing, and I know it's kind of irrelevant and I probably will never meet her but someone once implied to me that the Queen of England doesn't like Americans.
You'll have no problem here in London because there is a well established expat American community here. You can make contact with them and get their advice and help.
https://www.google.co.uk/#q=expat+americ...
The easy way to find out things about London is to see it on video - this is London via youtube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LHeBbsCg...
London is probably the most multicultural city on Earth. So don't be surprised by anything you see or hear when you arrive.
One very important thing - from the moment you set foot here in London, you are a Londoner.
Welcome to London - Your City.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jyrmVBfe...
London UK
I don`t know where your sister got her information from but I would take it with a pinch of salt.As a Brit I would say that Americans are very welcome and accepted over here so you will have no problems in that respect, however London is a big city and like any big city anywhere in the World it can be dangerous so use common sense and be careful where abouts you go and what you do especially as a lone traveller.
On a positive note I am sure you will love London and the UK in general as it caters well for all tourists. Enjoy your visit and take care.
I am a female who has traveled to the uk/London 5 times Solo starting at age 19 and last time was in 2011 and had great times on all those trips.
I have never had anyone give me dirty looks or make fun of me. People have volunteered to take my photo without me even Asking them.
Just be polite and do your Research Before you leave- have guidebooks/maps and or Apps.
And follow the Rules of any big city- keep belongings close and walk head up with purpose
Walk in well lite areas and never flash cash or phones etc that would attract thieves.
It appears that people who have never been within 2,000 miles of England have been keen to dish out advice to you.
Although there is some mistrust of US Foreign policy, most of us like Americans as individuals. You will feel welcome.
It's easy to find your way around London. Most of the touristy things are fairly close together. there is a huge public transport system. Using the Tube is easy and it has easy to follow maps at the stations.
Nobody knows what the Queen thinks about anything. However, I would imagine she likes Americans. We have been allies for a long time.
You will find that tourists outnumber the locals in Central London during the height of the tourist season. Avoid tourist traps, here are some interesting and quirky places:
http://bit.ly/1obwKDr
Also Royal palaces are generally good tours, as they are not run by rip off artists.
London is very different from the rest of the country.
London in the summer is FULL of American visitors. They come by the bus load. There are plenty of travel guides, notices everywhere telling you where to go and what to see. And as for the Queen --- she never ever makes any comments about anyone.
Personally, I loathe America, but judge each American on an individual basis. Come along. London isn't a frightening place. Easy to get lost in, but it has its attractions. Provided you don't say "I'm an American," with the implied implication that you come from the greatest place on Earth, you'll get on fine.
As for the Queen - I'm sure she has strong opinions on a LOT of subjects. What they are, nobody knows. Over the last sixty years, she's proved VERY good at keeping her thoughts to herself.
Don't worry I went to London alone when I was only 19 years old.
Thats not true it's a very small minority of british that would be rude, most are nice and would help you... go with friends it would be more fun!!!
Come to London, you'll enjoy a great time. Just be yourself. I think the Queen
is a Canadian so you had better excuse her LOL
