In Blighty we trust

It has hardly been a good PR week for Britain (Madge baby snatching aside). In the span of a few days we have been condemned as a "surveillance society" populated with teens from hell who are treasonably too fat to be soldiers. Ouch. So, I guess sometimes there are upsides to being American and closer to forty than fourteen.

But, with age also comes the wisdom to never underestimate the Brits, Empire dissolution days notwithstanding. And if the Today programme and John Humphrys aren't enough to keep you generally inspired by the voice of Britain, pick up a copy of today's Guardian. Splashed across the front page is the most enlightened poll ever printed (as voted here) : "British believe Bush is more dangerous than Kim Jong-il." Sheer genius. In one fell swoop the British people have come to redefine the "axis of evil." And I knew there was a reason I was living in Blighty.

So with love in our hearts and hope for world peace (aka Election Day 2008) in our minds let's celebrate the 13th (and lucky) edition of City Slicker's "Week's Action, Weekend Reaction."

1) Nauseated by Tom Cruise, the wedding rumours, his now apparent comeback as head of Universal Studios? React by using his name in vain and head to the opening of Tom's Kitchen in Chelsea. Informal and affordable finally comes to Chelsea. And no, Tom, that is not science fiction. Opens today.

2) In sticker shock over the record $140 million paid out for a Jackson Pollock? React by enjoying art for free at Late at Tate Britain where the focus is on disappearing London, complete with Routemaster talks by Will Self. Tonight. 6-10 PM

3) Agree that the high street is no longer the cheap retail thrill it used to be? React by staying indoors and shopping on-line for the American streetwear brand, Urban Outfitters, who have just launched their UK buying website. Just a shame the price signs can't be in dollars. www.urbanoutfitters.co.uk