A Permanent Souvenir: Commemorating My UK Visit With A Tattoo

from The London Review 2023

Who Are The London Reviewers

by Kennedy Kern

Getting a tattoo in a new country can be a fun way to remember a trip or a change in one’s life. In any case, it’s essential to investigate as needs be prior to getting inked, as various nations have different social perspectives towards tattoos.

“In the UK, tattoos are now more mainstream and socially acceptable than ever, “ BBC Travel states. However, there are still some areas of society, like the business world, where tattoos may be viewed negatively.

After you’ve done your homework and learned a lot about how people in your area feel about tattoos, it’s time to start looking for a tattoo artist.

According to tattoo artist Hannah Calavera, you can find a good tattoo artist in the UK by using social media. Instagram accounts are utilized by numerous craftsmen to flaunt their work and associate with clients.

It is vital to consider the tattoo craftsman’s degree of involvement and mastery while going with a choice. “When it comes to custom work, experience is especially important,” according to noted tattoo artist Liam Sparkes.” You must ensure that the artist you select is skilled in design and can produce something that will last for a long time.”

Once you’ve found a tattoo artist you like, talking about your design is essential. “Bring in any reference images or sketches you may have,” said tattoo artist Emily Alice Johnston. “If you give your artist as much information as possible, they will better understand what you want.”

It’s important to be aware of cultural differences before getting a tattoo. “In the UK, it’s common for artists to take breaks during the tattooing process to rest their hands or give the client a break,” noted tattoo artist Alex Bage. “It’s also common to talk to the client or listen to music to help them relax.”

At last, when your tattoo is done, taking great consideration of it is significant. “Tattoos are basically an open wound,” said tattoo artist Ant Dickinson. “You need to take care of them properly.” Follow your tattoo artist’s instructions for aftercare, and don’t soak it for too long in water or expose it to direct sunlight. In conclusion, getting a tattoo in the United

Kingdom or any foreign country can be a unique and unforgettable experience; in any case, it’s essential to do your research, pick a genuine tattoo artist, and be prepared for social differences. You can, however, get a stunning tattoo that will always serve as a reminder of your trip with careful planning and an open mind.

Bibliography

Bage, Alex. “Tattoo etiquette: What to expect when getting inked.”

Evening Standard. 29 October 2021, https://www. standard.co.uk/ insider/tattooetiquette-whatto-expectwhen-gettinginked-b969583. html. Accessed 30 March 2023. BBC Travel.

“The cultures where tattoos are still taboo.”

13 September 2018, https://www.bbc.com/travel/ story/20180912-the-cultures-where-tattoos-are-stilltaboo. Accessed 30 March 2023.

Calavera, Hannah. “How to find a good tattoo artist.” The Independent. 18 January 2022, https://www. independent.co.uk/life-style/fashion/tattoo-artist-ukinstagram-social-media-b1997907.html. Accessed 30 March 2023.

Dickinson, Ant. “How to take care of your new tattoo.” Men’s Health UK. 29 April 2021, https://www. menshealth.com/uk/style/grooming/a34460475/howto-take-care-of-your-new-tattoo/. Accessed 30 March 2023.

Johnston, Emily Alice. “Tips for getting your first tattoo.” GQ. 19 July 2021, https://www.gq-magazine. co.uk/fashion/article/tips-for-getting-your-first-tattoo. Accessed 30 March 2023.

Sparkes, Liam. “How to choose a tattoo artist.” Time Out London. 12 September 2018, https://www. timeout.com/london/things-to-do/how-to-choose-atattoo-artist. Accessed 30 March 2023.

Tise Two Truths And A Lie

1. I attended the first play I’ve ever been to.

2. I went on a street art tour and saw some amazing graffiti.

3. I tried to order fish and chips at a fancy restaurant and got laughed at by the waiter.

Jill Two Truths And A Lie

1. I went to the V & A a total of 4 times.

2. I stole a total of 4 jams.

3. I tried a bean & cheese crumpet

Kennedy Two Truths And A Lie

1. I spent over $200 on books.

2. There were no cats on the flight out of Chicago.

3. I got sick from an icky kid on the plane ride home.

Sydney Two Truths And A Lie

1. I cried on the first night because I was homesick.

2. I screamed when I almost got run over by a car.

3. A local told me to hit children with my purse.

Two Truths And A Lie Answer Key

Aarthi:

1. True 2. True 3. Lie

Daniel:

1. Lie 2. True 3. True

Elizabeth:

1. Lie 2. True 3. True

Ethan:

1. Lie 2. True 3. True

Grant:

1. True 2. Lie 3. True

Jill: 1. True 2. Lie 3. True

Kennedy: 1. True 2. Lie 3. True

Ladazhia:

1. Lie 2. True 3. True

Sam:

1. Lie 2. True 3. True

Sammi: 1. True 2. True 3. Lie

Solomon:

1. Lie 2. True 3. True

Steven: 1. Lie 2. True 3. True

Sydney:

1. True 2. Lie 3. True

Tise:

1. True 2. True 3. Lie

Ladazhia is a senior graduating in May 2023. She studies Strategic Communications in the Journalism school, and she is pursuing a minor in Leadership Studies. Ladazhia is the president of the Journalism Student Ambassador program as well as the Public Relations Student Society of America here at KU. In her free time, Ladazhia enjoys hanging out with friends, going to the gym, and trying out new activities. Ladazhia’s favorite thing to do while in London was attend Dopamine Land, where she was able to let her inner child come out to play.

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