English Do’s and Dont’s Part 2

Here continues our blog on English Do’s and Dont’s – those things you should and should not do when in England or with English people! You can read from the beginning here.

Do not stare at people! – It is considered impolite to look at someone too long when you do not know them very well.

Do not spit! – Spitting in the street is considered to be very impolite indeed. You should only spit when no one can see you!

Do not touch people too much – unless you know them very well, gestures like hugging and kissing and so on are only shared between close friends. In general, English people are very modest when it comes to public affection between strangers.

Do not pick your nose in public – English people find this disgusting! If you have to do it, use a handkerchief or tissue to blow your nose into it. Blowing your nose in public is considered more polite, unlike many other countries.Do not burp in public – After eating or drinking, you may enjoy a good burp! If you do it in public you can be sure that people will be very offended.Do not pass wind in public! This one is obvious to English people. Any loud sounds your body can make are usually considered very rude!Do not speak when you have food in your mouth – English people consider it rude to speak with your mouth full. If you want to reply to someone, they will appreciate you finishing what you are eating before talking back to them, so don’t worry about the pause.

Do not ask personal or intimate questions – English people are very keen on their privacy. This might seem strange considering how we treat our celebrities. Nevertheless, you should not ask questions like ‘Why aren’t you married?’ or ‘How much money do you earn?’ and if talking to a lady, definitely never ask ‘How much do you weigh?’.

Do not eat from your knife – only put food in your mouth from the fork or spoon – the knife is just for cutting the food!

Here is just a small selection of Do’s and Don’ts for life in England. I hope you are not completely put off ever visiting if you haven’t already! English people are very friendly usually and are used to meeting foreign people. If you make a mistake, it will probably be forgiven very quickly with a round of smiling and maybe some gentle teasing.