Divided by a common language, as
nomorehelosforme observes. I've had the good fortune to spend time in a dozen or more States over the last 25 years, and have quite a few friends over there too. Greatest exposure time has been in Virginia, Arizona and Arkansas with very few communication difficulties. Not to mention many years controlling USAFE ac in UK/East Anglia! Perhaps my ears are more attuned to US accents? My most common reaction when speaking what one might call 'proper English' seems to be "I love your accent", which is quite sweet!
