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LA is Nicer than London?

Our mates across the pond at Londonist let us know that our city is being praised for its politeness. According to the Telegraph, the city of Angels lived up to its name when it was visited by a UK journalist who was impressed by how cool we were to him -- embodying the laid-back surfer image.
Yet, after all, LA is hardly a backwater and everyone you stopped to ask for help with directions or advice seemed delighted and had all the time in the world. There, people stepped back and gestured you forward. Cars paused and their drivers smiled. What is it about us on this small island of ferocity? We should revive the verb "to surl".
We might be sweeter, but the Brits have two things going for them that Londonist links to: 1) Free Pole Dancing Lessons 2) Strip Poker Championships. While those things might fit better in the Naughty column instead of the Nice one, it sure is better than a poke in the eye (or a taser next to a Hyundai).
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