I’m sure by now you’ve all heard about the recent terrorist attacks in the UK. In light of this, I wanted to share with you some things that you should NOT do when visiting or travelling through the UK. So without further ado, here are five things that you should avoid while in the UK!
Don’t Call the United Kingdom “England”
It is very important to know that the United Kingdom is made up of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. While England makes up the largest part of the UK, it is still considered rude to refer to the entire country as “England.” Nevertheless, I still hear people from all around the world do this daily. If you want to make sure not to offend anyone, just refer to the UK as “the United Kingdom” or simply “the UK.”
Prepare For Odd Weather
If you’re used to sunny, blue skies, then the UK might come as a bit of a shock. The weather in the UK is notoriously unpredictable, and it is not uncommon for all four seasons to be represented in one day. So, whether you’re visiting in the middle of summer or winter, make sure to pack appropriate clothing for the changing weather conditions.
Get Used to the Queues
No matter what you’re trying to do in the UK, chances are you’re going to have to queue (or line up) at some point. Whether you’re trying to buy a cup of coffee, catch a bus, or even just use the restroom, be prepared to wait your turn. Besides, queuing is a great opportunity to practice your patience. In addition, if you’re queuing for something popular, be prepared to be jostled and pushed as people try to cut in line.
Small-talk is Important
In the UK, it is considered impolite to not make small-talk with the person behind you in line, on the bus, or even just walking down the street. So, if you’re not used to making small talk with strangers, now is the time to start practising. If you’re unsure what to say, simply commenting on the weather is always a safe bet. Therefore, the next time you’re in the UK, don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with someone new!
Don’t Rely on Cash
While it is always good to have cash on hand, in the UK, you won’t need it as much as you think. In recent years, there has been a shift from cash to card payments, and now most places will accept card payments only. So, if you’re used to paying for everything in cash, be prepared to start using your debit or credit card more often. Always ask the cashier before you try to pay with cash when in doubt.
‘Sorry’ isn’t Always an Apology
In the UK, people often say “sorry” when they don’t indicate it. For example, if someone bumps into you on the street, they might say “sorry” even though it was completely accidental. In these situations, “sorry” is a polite way of acknowledging what happened rather than an actual apology. So, don’t be too offended if someone says “sorry” after bumping into you; they probably didn’t do it on purpose.
Don’t Forget to Tip
Tipping is not mandatory in the UK, but it is certainly appreciated, especially in service-oriented industries such as restaurants, hotels, and taxis. If you’re satisfied with your assistance, a 10-15% tip is customary. However, if you’re on a tight budget, don’t feel beholden to tip, as it is not expected. In addition, if you’re paying by card, most restaurants will add a service charge to your bill, so be sure to check for this before you leave a tip.
So, try to avoid these common mistakes, and you’ll be sure to have a great time in the UK. If you desire to learn about British citizenship, consider consulting with British citizenship lawyers. They have a lot of knowledge of the process and can help you sort out any confusion. You can also get in touch with The British High Commission for more information on visas and other requirements.
Conclusion
The UK is a great place to visit, but there are occasional things you should comprehend before you go. Be prepared for the weather, queues, and small talk. In addition, don’t forget to tip us if you’re satisfied with your assistance. If you keep these things in mind, you’re certain to have a fantastic time in the UK.
