Living and Learning - Driving in the UK

In recent weeks, we have had the challenge (and pleasure) of learning to drive in the UK.  While it was scary at first (really, I felt 16 and my hands were shaking during my first drive!) - it has become easier with time.

Last week, we took the British driving theory test.  The test included 50 questions from a bank of 1,000 that ranged from simple and typical, to some really funny / hard questions.  Below are a few of the highlights I saw on the test and during my studying:

• If you come across a horse in a roundabout, what should you do?  Answer: assume erratic behavior and give way 
• If you find a dog wearing a burgundy and gold sweater, what does it mean?  Your options: the elderly, a dog in training, a colour blind person, or a deaf person.  Answer: a deaf person.  
• What kind of driving is most dangerous?  Your options: cautious, careful, competitive.  The answer - competitive 

In good news, both P and I passed with flying colors!  We're excited to have our official driving permits here.  Despite some of the silly questions - in recent weeks, we also learned a lot about British driving terminology and facts:

• Colors of Signs Matters: The color of the sign has meaning here.  Blue signs tell you what you SHOULD do.  Red rimmed signs tell you what you shouldn't do! 
• On One Lane Roads - Pull Over: Yikes, this is one we've learned through practice.  There are many one lane roads that are VERY tight!  Taking these slowly and driving carefully is seriously important!
• No Open Container Laws Here:  Random - unexpected change.  We are so used to strict open container laws here in the United States - here, you can drink in the car (as long as the driver isn't drinking and is sober!)

....and....we're on the road!