annhig

agreed northie. it's a bit like very popular sporting events for me - it's [almost] better on telly.

bilboburgler

I think this thread is proof that the word "charming" is so much more attractive than "quaint". ;-)

MissPrism

I suppose that "quaint" has an element of condescension or slight mockery about it.

thursdaysd

As does "cute". More than an element.

OReilly

"cute" is a very American expression. In the UK, it would only be used to refer a baby, if at all. In Ireland, if you refer to a person as "cute", it means they are sly/cunning; i.e. "cute like a fox".

Boveney

'Cute' is definitely part of my London designer friends' vocabulary - they use it in the sense of 'small, clever, cunning' as in 'a very cute storage solution.' A baby would be 'sweet.' Yes, 'cute' as it's used in this thread is very American. But what's wrong with that? My personal gripe is the Americans who come to London and instantly attempt to talk like a Brit(looking at you, Madonna).

janisj

Re the Chelsea Flower Show. The afternoon will be <B>VERY</B> crowded. Almost unbelievably crowded. Don't expect to see all of it. It does thin out the last hour or so if the evening session. If you plan on eating on site, don't wait because most venues will run out of food towards the end of the day.

I've been 6 or 7 times - last time was 3 or 4 years ago. (what I do the years I'm considering visiting the show, I join the RHS so I can go on Members days. Still VERY crowded but at least a little more manageable)

AGM_Cape_Cod

janisj, we joined the RHS and are going during Member hours. I know it will be crowded but at least it is outside. The late lamented NE Flower Show was in a hall and also very crowded even in member hours. How can I find out about the exhibits so we can plan our visit?

If it is too crowded we don't have to stay since it is our vacation and we can do whatever we want.

"My personal gripe is the Americans who come to London and instantly attempt to talk like a Brit" I must confess my DH is very taken with the expression 'Brilliant!'.

goddesstogo

"My personal gripe is the Americans who come to London and instantly attempt to talk like a Brit"

Brilliant post, Boveney! Well done you!

Boveney

For AGM_Cape_Cod: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/gardening...sneak-preview/
And thank you, goddesstogo.

ssander

In the US, if a home for sale is described as "charming," that means it is old and needs repair work.

ssander

Sberg

bookmarking. Thanks for the tips!