Surviving in the UK: DOs and DONTs

The United Kingdom is a fascinating place with a rich history and culture. Whether you are visiting for a short time or moving here permanently, there are some things you should know about surviving in the UK. In this blog post, we will give you a brief overview of the dos and don’ts of surviving in the UK.

DO Get to Know the Weather

The weather in the UK can be notoriously unpredictable. The weather is ever-changing, so it’s crucial to be aware of the forecast and to dress appropriately. Whenever you step outside, always bring an umbrella, just in case. Make sure to check the weather update and forecast before you leave your house each day.

Don’t Forget to Pack an Adapter

If you are coming from outside the UK, you will need to pack a travel adapter for your electrical appliances. The voltage in the UK is different from other countries, so you will need a converter to use your electronic devices. This adapter will also allow you to charge your devices while you are travelling in the UK.

DO Learn How to Queue Properly

Queuing (or standing in line) is an important part of British culture. If you are ever in a situation where you need to queue, make sure to stand in line patiently and wait your turn. It is considered rude to try and jump ahead in line, so make sure to mind your manners! Sometimes if you are in a hurry, you can ask the person behind you if you can go ahead – but make sure to say “thank you” afterwards.

Don’t Talk About Politics Too Much

Politics is a sensitive subject in the UK. Avoid talking about politics with people you don’t know well, as you may unintentionally offend someone. It is important to be well-informed before entering into a discussion about politics. Apart from politics,  religion is also a sensitive topic that you should avoid discussing with people you don’t know well.

DO Try New Foods

The UK has a variety of traditional foods that you may not be familiar with. While some of these foods may sound strange, we urge you to keep an open mind and try them! Some British foods that you should try include:

 

* Sunday roast dinner

* Fish and chips

* Shepherd’s pie

* Yorkshire pudding

* Full English breakfast

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

If you need help when in the UK, don’t hesitate to ask around. The locals are almost always friendly and more than happy to lend a helping hand. If you can’t find someone to help you, you can always ask a police officer for directions.

DO Use Common Sense

As with any country, it is important to use common sense when travelling in the UK. Pay attention to your environment and go with your gut. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s likely not. Follow your gut, and you will be sure to have a safe and enjoyable trip!

Don’t Expect Everything to be Open 24/7

In the UK, stores and businesses typically have set opening and closing times. Typically, shops are open from 9 am to 5:30 pm Monday through Saturday and closed on Sundays. However, you will find that some stores are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you need to buy something outside of normal opening hours, you can always try a petrol station or a 24-hour supermarket.

DO Learn Some Basic Phrases

The UK’s primary language is English. However, many other languages are also commonly spoken. It is always a good idea to learn some basic phrases in the local language, such as “Hello”, “Thank you”, and “Goodbye”. By making an effort to learn some of the local languages, you show locals that you’re interested in their culture and want to communicate with them.

 

If you are yet to apply for a  UK visa, consider contacting Gulbenkian Andonian immigration lawyers in the UK for assistance.

Conclusion 

The United Kingdom is a wonderful place with lots to see and do. There are some things you should keep in mind when visiting or moving to Bahrain. Make sure to get to know the weather, learn how to queue properly, and don’t forget about the tea! And last but not least, time in the UK should be fun!