Moving to the UK - Practical tips
Queuing
One of the first things that people moving to the UK notice is how people here tend to queue up if they are waiting to get on a bus, at a busy shop or outside a museum or exhibition. People queue in other countries as well, of course, but in the UK most people actually wait their turn patiently, even if they complain at the same time. If you try and jump the queue, you could get some angry looks, or comments, as people find this rude!
Talking about the weather
Talking about the weather is almost a national obsession in the UK. Maybe it’s because we live on an island and the weather is always changing, but people love to talk about the weather and remember good summers from many years ago. Everybody wants to know if the sun’s going to be shining at the weekend or if it’s going to rain. If you are moving here, remember to bring a raincoat, jacket or umbrella, even in summer.
Driving on the left
Britain is one of the few countries where cars drive on the left. This is important to remember, especially if you’re a pedestrian and want to cross the road. Road signs that show the speed limit in miles per hour (mph), or distances in miles, can also confuse people who are used to thinking in kilometres per hour. If you forget, you could end up travelling further than planned and go at a slower speed than necessary!
British humour
People in the UK have a good sense of humour and we’re well known for our TV comedies that are popular around the world. Rather than tell jokes with a punchline, people here are more likely to make funny remarks, sometimes with a perfectly serious face. It’s not always easy for visitors to know when British people are being serious or making a joke, which can be confusing as well as funny. If you have a good sense of humour, you’re sure to make lots of friends here.
Moving to the UK: practical tips - Comprehension questions
1. What side of the road do people drive on in the UK?
2. Why is it not a good idea to jump the queue?
3. What should visitors always bring with them, even in summer?
Moving to the UK: practical tips - Comprehension questions and Answers
1. What side of the road do people drive on in the UK?
On the left
2. Why is it not a good idea to jump the queue?
People find this rude and annoying
3. What should visitors always bring with them, even in summer?Raincoat or umbrella