You may be called by many different 'affectionate' names, according to which part of the England you are visiting. Do not be offended, this is quite normal. For example, you may be called dear, dearie, flower, love, chick, chuck, me duck, me duckie, mate, guv, son, ma'am, madam, miss, sir, or treacle, according to your sex, age and location.
Interesting Fact.
The 'affectionate' name 'duck' is thought to come from the Anglo-Saxon word 'ducis' which was meant as a term of respect; similar to the Middle English 'duc', 'duk' which denotes a leader, commander, general; from which comes the title 'Duke' and the Old French word 'ducheé' - the territory ruled by a Duke.
Visiting people in their houses.
When being entertained at someone's home it is nice to take a gift for the host and hostess. A bottle of wine, bunch of flowers or chocolates are all acceptable. Sending a thank you note is also considered appropriate.
Eating.
They eat continental style, with fork in the left hand and the knife in the right.
In England people like to form orderly queues (standing in line) and wait patiently for our turn e.g. boarding a bus. It is usual to queue when required, and expected that you will take your correct turn and not push in front. 'Queue jumping' is frowned upon.
Do take your hat off when you go indoors (men only)
It is impolite for men to wear hats indoors especially in churches.
Nowadays, it is becoming more common to see men wearing hats indoors. However, this is still seen as being impolite, especially to the older generations.
Do say "Excuse Me".
If someone is blocking your way and you would like them to move, say “excuse me” and they will move out of your way.
Do Pay as you Go:
Pay for drinks as you order them in pubs and other types of bars.
Do say "Please" and "Thank you":
It is very good manners to say "please" and "thank you". It is considered rude if you don't. You will notice in England that we say 'thank you' a lot. Do cover your Mouth:
When yawning or coughing always cover your mouth with your hand.
Do Shake Hands:
When you are first introduced to someone, shake their right hand with your own right hand.
Do say “sorry”:
If you accidentally bump into someone, say 'sorry'. They probably will too, even if it was your fault! This is a habit and can be seen as very amusing by an 'outsider'.
Do Smile.
A smiling face is a welcoming face.
Do Drive on the left side of the road.
Do open doors for other people.
Men and women both hold open the door for each other. It depends on who goes through the door first.
Do not greet people with a kiss:
We only kiss people who are close friends and relatives.
Avoid talking loudly in public.
It is impolite to stare at anyone in public.
Privacy is highly regarded. Do not ask a lady her age. It is considered impolite to ask a lady her age.
Do not pick your nose in public:
We are disgusted by this. If your nostrils need de-bugging, use a handkerchief.
Avoid doing gestures such as backslapping and hugging.
This is only done among close friends.
It is impolite to speak with your mouth full of food
Do not ask personal or intimate questions
We like our privacy. Please do not ask questions such as "How much money do you earn?" "How much do you weigh?" or "Why aren't you married?"
Never eat off a knife when having a meal.
Women in Britain are entitled to equal respect and status as men (and indeed vice versa) in all areas of life and tend to have more independence and responsibility than in some other cultures. Women are usually independent and accustomed to entering public places unaccompanied. It is usual for women to go out and about on their own as well as with friends. Men and women mix freely.
· It is ok for women to eat alone in a restaurant.
· It is ok for women to wander around on their own.
· It is ok for women to drink beer.
