Hey there, all you future adventurers heading to the UK! Packing your bags is just the beginning – understanding the society and culture of your destination is the key! BACCOM has gathered 12 interesting facts about the UK that will help you navigate life smoothly without any culture shocks and ensure you fit right in. So, let's dive into the fascinating world of UK culture! 🇬🇧✨
1. Greeting
British greetings have their own unique charm with simple yet distinctive expressions that you’ll find only in the UK. So, let's take a look at some of the favourite ways that natives like to say hi to each other!
“Hello, mate!”
The word "mate" is a friendly way to say hello that British people often use. It's casual and used for people you know well, like your buddies or colleagues. If you heard this, you can respond with the same greeting.
“Hello, how’s the weather?”
This greeting often arises because of the UK's unpredictable weather. That’s why it's common for British people to ask about the weather when they greet each other.
“How are you doing?”
This is another popular greeting in the UK. It’s often used as a polite and friendly way to acknowledge someone, whether it’s in passing or in a formal setting. Typically, you don’t need to give a detailed answer; you can simply respond with the same phrase.
“You alright?
For newcomers, this sentence may confuse you because it’s often asked when someone wants to check if everything’s okay. But actually, it's just a friendly British-style greeting with a hint of care. A simple "Great, thanks. You?" is the perfect response to return this welcoming vibe.
2. Apology
The word "sorry" holds a special place in the hearts of British people. There's a survey that shows British people tend to say "sorry" approximately 8 times a day on average and a maximum of 20 times a day! It’s a favourite term often used not only with minor matters but also with animals, weather, or anything around them. This frequent usage doesn't always mean sorry; it's a gesture of politeness and respect. It helps maintain a friendly atmosphere and soften your language, much like the phrases “please” and “thank you.”
Besides saying sorry, British people demonstrate their consideration by selecting their words carefully, particularly in sensitive situations. However, when they’re close friends, they enjoy joking around and being straightforward with each other. Just remember, if you're not quite that close yet, it’s best to stick to being polite.
3. The use of words
British people place a high value on respect for others, which is why they have this fascinating way of seasoning their conversations with words that carry hidden meanings. They also prefer to communicate indirectly to avoid hurting anyone's feelings or causing misunderstandings. To help you understand this better, here are some examples that we thoughtfully chose for you!
“It’s really cold in here.” = Can we close the window?
While many might think this sentence means someone is feeling cold, in UK culture, it's often a subtle way of suggesting that the window should be closed.
“I’m trying to study.” = Be quiet!
If someone's being a bit too loud and you want to ask them to lower their voice without upsetting them, you could say something like this. It's a gentle way to get your point across.
“The bar closes in 5 minutes.” = So please leave
If the waiter says this to you, it's a clear sign that you need to make your way out of the bar promptly because it's about to close!
And one more thing, don’t forget to practise reading between the lines as well! This skill will come in handy for navigating life in the UK.😉
4. Manner
Knowing the proper manners is also crucial for newcomers, particularly when it comes to social etiquette. But no stress! We have picked up some essential public manner tips to guide you along the way.
Keep right
In the UK, there's a convention of standing or walking on the right side to make it easier for those in a rush to pass, especially in busy spots like sidewalks, train platforms, and escalators. This helps everyone move around comfortably and prevents anyone from blocking the way.
Hold the door
Holding the door open for the person right behind you is another important gesture of politeness. When you pass through the door, take a quick look back to see if someone is coming after you. If there is, you should hold the door open until they get there. Closing the door right away without checking behind you might come across as rude, so it's good to be mindful and make a habit of this gesture.
5. Zebra crossings
In the UK, they truly prioritise the safety of pedestrians crossing the road. If you stroll around in the city, you'll come across these flashing orange-yellow light poles on both sides of the crossing. These poles are called Belisha beacons. They're installed to make sure drivers know well in advance that someone is about to cross the road. When you spot these bright yellow poles, feel free to cross the road with confidence! The drivers will gladly stop for you.
Photo credit: Carwow
6. Queue up
Queuing is a big part of how people show respect and manners in many countries, including the UK. That’s why cutting in line is a big no-no! It's considered impolite and unfair to those who've been waiting patiently. In case of an emergency, you can always ask courteously if you can jump the queue. After all, this is a natural part of being together in this big community where we treat each other with respect and kindness.
Photo credit: Bloomberg
7. Punctuality
Punctuality is highly valued among British people as well. If you have an appointment, you must arrive on time, or even a little early if possible. However, if there's an emergency preventing you from arriving on time or causing you to be late, it's important to notify them as soon as possible!
8. Dressing
Fashion is incredibly free-spirited and enjoyable in the UK! You have the freedom to wear whatever you want and showcase your unique fashion sense without worrying about being judged. Here, you'll find all sorts of styles, from trendy and modern to timeless classics.
Here is a little reminder from BACCOM: While dressing up is enjoyable, remember to choose suitable clothing, as the weather here is quite unpredictable. This ensures that your fashion is both stylish and practical at once!🧣✨
Photo credit: Fashion Gone Rogue
9. Weather and seasons
Another interesting fact that newcomers have to know is the weather and seasons. The weather in the UK is like a roller coaster. In a single day, you might experience rain, sunshine, wind, and even snow! To handle this uncertain weather, Let’s take a closer look at each season.
There are 4 seasons in the UK
🍀 Spring (March to May)
During this period, temperatures start to rise slowly, but not as cold as winter. The weather usually hovers around 15-20 degrees celsius, which is pretty comfy! Trees start sprouting leaves, and flowers burst into bloom, making the city look green and lively. With the cosy weather, people love spending time outdoors and enjoying the beautiful scenery as everything comes back to life. However, spring weather can be quite changeable. One moment, it might be sunny, the next, rain or even snow. Thus, it’s better to wear clothes that you can easily adjust, such as a T-shirt paired with a jumper or jacket that you can take off if it gets warmer. It's also a good idea to have a waterproof jacket in case it rains.
☀️ Summer (June to August)
The weather in summer is generally warming up, with temperatures ranging from around 20-32 degrees Celsius. The days are longer, with daylight extending well into the evening, giving you extra time for outdoor activities. During this season, people love heading to beaches, parks, and outdoor attractions to bask in the sunshine and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
However, there are a few weeks when temperatures can become scorchingly hot. You might feel uncomfortable during these times, as many places, such as shopping malls and public transportation, do not have air conditioning. The heat can be so intense that fans become a must-have item since most accommodations are typically only equipped with heaters. So, if you plan to visit the UK during these periods, be prepared for the heat!
🍁 Autumn (September to November)
Autumn brings a distinct change as the warmth of summer fades away, hinting at the upcoming winter. The season is characterised by cooler temperatures, usually between 8-14 degrees Celsius, and occasional light rain in some cities. So, make sure to have an umbrella or raincoat handy! Moreover, the highlight of this time of year is the autumn leaves. The city will be covered with piles of leaves in shades of red, orange, and yellow, making autumn visually stunning.
To experience the beauty of autumn, BACCOM has rounded up some of the best places to enjoy stunning views, including Royal Parks, Richmond Park, Chelsea Embankment, and Kew Gardens. If you're planning a trip to the UK during this enchanting season, be sure to visit these breathtaking destinations!
☃️ Winter (December to February)
Winter is the season of freezing weather, frosty mornings, and snow. Temperatures typically range from 0-4 degrees Celsius. The days get shorter, with the sun setting earlier in the afternoon. In some cities, there can be snowfall, strong winds, and cloudy skies. While the winter vibe might seem a bit gloomy, it's not all bad! This season also brings us Christmas, a special holiday that brings warmth and cheer to the cold winter days.
Moreover, winter is filled with various festivals and markets. For Christmas Markets, the Southbank Winter Market, where you can stroll along the Thames River. Leicester Square dazzles with beautiful lights and offers a variety of souvenirs and gifts. And, of course, there's Winter Wonderland, known for its sparkling lights, festive vibes, ice skating rinks, and thrilling rides. Before heading out to enjoy these festivities, make sure to bundle up in a cosy outfit!
BACCOM TIPS ⏰
In the UK, they follow Daylight Saving Time, where the clocks are set forward by one hour in the spring, usually in March, and set back by one hour in the fall, usually in October. This adjustment gives us an extra hour to enjoy daylight during the warmer months and potentially save energy by reducing the need for artificial lighting in the evenings.
10. Drinking tea
Did you know that British people consume over 150 million cups of tea per day? This is why the UK is known for their strong tea-drinking culture. One of the most famous teas here is English Breakfast Tea. It is a classic blend of various kinds of black teas, such as Assam, Ceylon, and Kenya. The English Breakfast Tea is prized for its rich, robust flavour and how great it is with milk and sugar. By the way, the top picks for most English tea lovers are PG Tips, Twinings, Tetley, and Yorkshire.
11. Drinking tap water
Drinking tap water might seem unfamiliar to some, often due to concerns about impurities. However, here in the UK, you can rest assured that it's perfectly safe and acceptable to drink. Authorities ensure that the water is thoroughly clean and safe by testing it to high standards. Therefore, you can enjoy a refreshing glass of tap water without any worries!
12. Student life
If you're considering studying in the UK, it's an amazing opportunity to dive into diverse cultures and meet people from all over the world. This can be a fantastic way to build friendships and learn about different cultures. If you encounter any challenges, whether it's academic stuff or settling in, there's no need to worry! Each university usually has professors or specialised units to offer assistance and valuable advice. Plus, they've ensured their campuses are welcoming to everyone, with support systems and facilities to assist students with disabilities. This attentive care ensures that everyone enjoys the highest level of equality.
And there we go, we've reached the end of our exploration into the UK's interesting facts! Now that you've got a better grasp of their culture, settling into a new place won't feel as daunting anymore. You're all set to embrace the UK lifestyle and have a blast! Cheers to new adventures ahead! 🎉
If you are preparing for a journey in the UK and need help finding accommodation, sorting out contacts, or anything else related to moving to the UK, BACCOM has got your back! We're more than happy to offer advice and support, making sure your transition to life in the UK goes smoothly. Don't hesitate to reach out to BACCOM! 🤩🙌
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