Living in the UK and culture shock

Living in a new culture is exciting but can also be challenging. Here is some basic advice about life in the UK.

• Although simple politeness is always expected, British people are generally relaxed. They like to hear ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ repeatedly! People here are very friendly but can be reserved, especially when talking to strangers. You might also like to download the British Council’s ‘Creating Confidence’ booklet.

• It is not polite to be late in Britain. If you find you are going to be late or if you cannot keep an appointment try to contact the person you are going to meet beforehand.

• If you are invited to someone’s home for a meal it is polite to take a small gift (for example, wine, chocolates or flowers), or you could invite them to your home in return. It is considered good manners to tell your hosts in advance if you have special religious or dietary requirements.

• When you are in a bank, shop or waiting for a bus you are expected to queue; stand in line and wait your turn. People can get very angry if you ‘jump the queue’.

• If you do not drink alcohol, you may be worried if you are invited to go to a pub (public house or bar). Pubs are popular social meeting places and sell a range of soft drinks as well as alcohol. Both men and women are welcome. There is no waiter service and you pay for drinks at the bar when you order them.

• You may be surprised about the amount of alcohol some students consume. Unfortunately it is part of a student drinking culture. Only drink to a level you are comfortable with and not at all if you don’t want to. You should never feel pressurised into drinking.

• You may wish to tip. About 10–15% for a taxi or in a restaurant is the norm although check a tip has not already been added.

• Men and women have equal rights in the UK. It is illegal to discriminate against anyone according to race, gender, age, class, sexual orientation, religion or disability.

• British attitudes to sex and sexuality may be different from those in your own country. You are free to live according to your own personal standards, ethics and beliefs and not feel pressured to adopt those of any of your fellow students.

Climate and clothing

See ‘What to pack’ section p.29.

UK food

British people enjoy a great variety of food, including dishes from other countries. Traditional meals in the UK can seem heavy and often rely on meat, potatoes and vegetables. It is important to maintain a good diet and not rely on fast food. If you are unused to cooking, take a look at bbcgoodfood.com where there are many films of recipes for you to try.

Smoking

In 2007 England undertook a complete smoking ban in public places. All University residences and buildings are non-smoking. Make sure you take notice of non-smoking zones in public areas. If you are in the company of others it is polite to ask if they mind whether you smoke, especially at meal times.

Toilets

British toilets are the flushing, pedestal type. Toilet paper is provided and should always be flushed away after use. Separate facilities are usually available for people with disabilities and for nappy/baby changing.