The CULTURAL GAFFES in the UK

Every country has each culture, and there are many rules. Some same (or similar) behavior has different meaning among people from other countries, and it could cause 'the Cultural Gaffe'. 'Gaffe' means a mistake that a person makes in public or in a social situation.

Of course, there are some cultural awareness in the UK. I'm going to introduce some of them and to know these things might prevent you from making the Cultural Gaffes.

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GREETINGS - how to meet and greet your visitors

• Formal greetings are customary as is handshaking; The British are less demonstrative than many other nationalities and a reserved manner is expected.
• Friends and family; They may hug and kiss when they meet each other

COURTESIES - suitable topics of conversation

• At a first meeting; Conversation should start with neutral topics. It is more acceptable than exchanging personal information.
• The topic; About religion and politics are should be avoided.

FOOD

• British cooking; It is untrue and unfair to say that British cooking is bland and unimaginative. Many regional dishes are rediscovered to replace the traditional fish and chips or Sunday roast.
• Tea; It is the national drink. Of course coffee is drunk, but not so widely.

BODY LANGUAGE

• Showing someone two fingers ( the 'V' sign) or your middle finger is very rude

• Avoid getting too close (except in a queue); British people like to be about 0.5-1 metre away from each other when talking
• Wink; Wink each other can mean someone is joking or that they like you in a sexual way.

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These are just a little bit of all, but these cultural awareness help you to receive a positive impression and you could feel more relaxed when you meet British people.