Is it safe for Indians/Pakistanis in London, or UK in general?
I’m an American-Indian (south asian ) student from Chicago. I will be primarily studying In Cambridge England. I’ll be visiting other cities also. I had read some stories about racism against indians or south asians. I was wondering if this is is something I should worry about? Am I safe, or are there chances of me getting hurt? Is there any particular cities or areas I should avoid? Is it ok to go to pubs at night in Cambridge? I really appreciate the help!
Racism exists everywhere and the UK is no exception. It really depends on where you go and what you do. I would consider Chicago to be a lot less safe than the UK. Each town or city has places to avoid and with a little common sense you can avoid them. If you can afford to study at Cambridge you will be perceived as being affluent and that might make you more of a target than your race.
Going anywhere where alcohol is served increases the risk of violence but that is the same anywhere in the world. Booze does lower inhibitions.
Your American accent will break down barriers, in your place I would try to look as American as possible. Do expect people to be surprised that you are American and be prepared to be challenged about American foreign policy – it’s considered fun to tease “Yanks” about this. I still suffer from a little culture shock when I hear Americans of Indian, Pakistani or Bangladeshi origin speak with American accents. I expect them to have British accents like my own or to be recent immigrants. I have African American friends who feel the same when they hear British Black people speak with British accents and they are expecting American accents.
You will probably be called a “Paki” at some point but I just let that wash over me. I’m a mix of Scot and Kashmiri.
If you are planning to visit other cities as a tourist remember that generally tourist areas are safer than the local equivalent of “the ‘hood”. I got lost once in Camden, NJ and found myself in the kind of area where the only safe action is to lock the car doors and keep driving. I didn’t need local knowledge to tell me this. The state of the streets told me everything I needed to know. I’m sure you have the same sense of self preservation. Trust to your gut instincts.
I hope you enjoy your stay.
Cambridge, England & The Eagle Pub
