Cultural tips

Here you'll find some useful tips on everyday life in the UK.

Transport in London
Motorists now have to pay a £8 congestion charge to drive into central London. Your contacts will be sure to have an opinion on this.

Double-decker buses are a scenic way to travel. You often pay the driver when you get on, but an increasing number of bus routes require you to purchase a ticket from a machine at the bus stop before you board the bus.

London's underground is usually the fastest way of getting around. Buy a one-day travel pass if you plan to make several journeys.

Make sure to stand on the right of escalators in the underground. This leaves the left-hand side free for fellow travellers in a hurry.

Theatre
Book your interval drinks before the performance to avoid the rush to the bar.

Business Etiquette
Business cards are typically exchanged at the end of a meeting.

Handshaking on introduction only takes place with people from outside the company. Handshaking with colleagues on a daily basis is unknown.

The line between work and private life is not always distinct - many British socialise with colleagues quite regularly.

A business lunch can just as easily mean a quick sandwich as a meal in a smart restaurant. Breakfast meetings are rare.

Midday drinking has declined, but it is still quite normal to have a glass of wine or a beer, with food or without.

Socialising
Inns and public houses (pubs) in England are no longer subject to local laws covering opening hours but most continue to open from 11.00 - 23.00.

Restaurants
The restaurant will often contact you to confirm your booking. However, in some cases it may be your responsibility. Ask when you make a reservation to avoid mishaps.

Hotels
Always ask about promotions and special deals; most hotels can offer rooms at prices significantly below their standard rate.

Electricity
The electricity supply is 240 V, AC, 50 Hz. Plugs are square, three-pin, 13 amp.

Weather
Weather in Britain is changeable. Plan ahead. A raincoat and umbrella are useful throughout the year.

The content of this page is for information only and should not be relied upon.

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