First Choice - Englisch für Erwachsene

The summer is here in all its glory. Some of you will perhaps go on holiday to England. Is there a better place to relax and refresh your English? Despite being quite similar to Germany, there are little cultural differences that need to be taken into account. We have compiled a little list for you. Read it carefully!

Dos

Do stand in line.
In England, people like to form queues and wait patiently for their turn. This is quite important when waiting for the bus. It is expected that you will not push in front. Jumping the queue is frowned upon.

Do say 'please' and 'thank you'.
The frequent use of the expressions 'please' and 'thank you' is expected. It is considered rude if you don't. You will notice that in England people say 'thank you' very often.

Do pay as you get your drinks.
Pay for drinks as you order them in pubs and in most bars.

Do say 'Excuse me'.
If someone is blocking your way and you would like them to move, say 'excuse me'. They will move away.

Do say sorry.
If you accidentally bump into someone, say 'sorry'. They probably will too, even if it was your fault! This is a typical English habit.

Do smile.
A smiling face is a welcoming face!

Do drive on the left side of the road!

Don’ts

Do not greet people with a kiss.
The English only kiss people who are close friends and relatives. Shake hands instead.

Do not ask personal or intimate questions.
The English like their privacy. Do not ask personal questions such as 'How much money do you earn?', 'How much do you weigh?' or 'Why aren't you married?'.

Avoid gestures such as backslapping and hugging.
This is only done among close friends.

Do not burp in public.
It may make you feel better, but in England this is considered very rude. If you can not avoid it, then cover your mouth with your hand and say 'excuse me' afterwards.