The influence and spreading of American companies to England is evident throughout the city. The West End and theatre district showcases the extreme American influence on London perhaps more than any other area. This area, which is often compared to New York City's Times Square, is full of advertisements, shops, and eating establishments that are straight from America. Every single corner seems to have a Starbucks on it, and one can always find a McDonalds to satisfy their American fast-food desires. Enormous chain stores have also made their way from across the pond causing the more traditional "mom and pop" stores to be run out of business due lower prices and better selection. Several Broadway shows that are set in America have also made their way to the West End including Chicago, Jersey Boys, and Hairspray. The importance of American politics to the British has also been extremely evident over the last week with the Presidential election and success of Barack Obama. Every newspaper, magazine, and news program was covered with election coverage and Londoners were paying attention to every moment of it. As an American visiting London, it is sometimes easy to forget that we are in fact in a different country, and not just another big diverse city like New York City.
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