Cultural characteristics and differences

local culture



  • The UK is divided into four regions: England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
  • It has a population of approximately 65 million people, most of whom live in England. London, the capital of the United Kingdom - and the capital of England - is the largest city in the UK and is as diverse in culture and religion as any other region. Respect other people's religious beliefs in the UK, just as others will respect yours.
  • English is the official language of the United Kingdom, but it is not the only common language, but English is sufficient.


    climate

    When you think of Britain, you usually think of rain, but that's not the case.
    The weather in the UK is often unpredictable, but rarely extreme. The weather can change from day to day, so even if the forecast calls for hot and dry weather, it’s a good idea to pack a warm jacket and an umbrella in your bag!
    Generally speaking, the weather conditions in the four seasons are:
    • Summer (June-August): The best weather is also the warmest, with clear skies and occasional thundershowers.
    • Autumn (September-November): Temperatures begin to drop and may be mild and dry, or wet and windy.
    • Winter (December - February): the coldest season, sometimes snowing.
    • Spring (March-May): Usually good weather - sunny days, occasional showers.
      Remember to set your clocks forward one hour on the last Sunday in March - this is the start of British Summer Time. During daylight saving time, you can take full advantage of the warm weather in spring and summer, and it will get dark later.

      politics and government

      The United Kingdom implements a parliamentary democracy. The royal family is only a nominal title, and the head of the government is elected by general elections (usually once every five years).

      Differences in life in the UK

      1. dress

        In the UK, people tend to wear comfortable clothes , so British college students generally wear the most ordinary hoodies or T- shirts. And the British can be regarded as typically not afraid of the cold. In the still cold months of March and April , you may see British boys and girls going out wearing shorts and short sleeves.

        2. life

          • All courses will be taught in English. If you have any questions about any course, do not hesitate to seek help from school staff directly.
          • In the UK, no one will laugh at your English or the questions you ask.
          • Enjoy all the public facilities in the school
          • Participating in school clubs can enrich your study life.

            3. Way of greeting

            The most common way to greet someone for the first time in the UK is to shake hands . At the same time, British people pay great attention to small details, so it is best to look into each other's eyes when greeting to show respect.
            But that doesn’t mean you have to stare at each other for the first time, which can make the situation very awkward.
            When chatting, you should avoid asking about their age , income , and personal life . Just ask general questions like, “Is everything okay? How are you doing, or just chat about the weather.

            4. Meal habits

              • British people are accustomed to eating with a knife and fork. They usually hold the fork in the left hand and the knife in the right hand.
              • In some more upscale restaurants , after finishing a dish, you should put your knife and fork on the side of the plate to tell the waiter that you have finished your meal and can serve the next dish.
              • Ordinary restaurants and gatherings with friends don't pay so much attention.

              5. Time

                • British people are very principled about time. If you have any appointments, you should arrive on time .
                • If you are invited to someone's home for dinner, you should bring a bottle of wine, a box of chocolates or a bouquet of flowers as a souvenir to thank the host for the invitation.
                • For less formal gatherings, such as those of college students, people usually bring their own drinks and share them with everyone.

                6.Exercise

                British people love many sports, from football to rugby, running and cycling.
                In college, there are also many various sports clubs, ex: cycling, rock climbing, basketball, fencing and even belly dancing! In addition to maintaining your health, exercise is also a great way to make friends. If you are an adventure lover, make an appointment with a group of like-minded people to climb Mount Snowdon in northern Wales!

                7. Arts and Drama

                London's West End theaters often stage dramas and operas of all sizes. You can buy tickets online and choose the plays you are interested in to watch. If you are not in London, you can also go to a local theater. Some opera companies will tour in the UK. Britain has an incredibly rich history, so in order to blend in, you need to try to experience and understand the country.