Myths and Facts about the British and Britain
I do not like stereotypes and if you intend to move to England, or anywhere else for that matter, it is wise to forget about them, too. Stereotypes will prevent you from integrating and will make the experience of living in a foreign country less rich. I cannot deny that people have a natural tendency to generalise, though, and unfortunately I am one of them. Here is what I think about the most popular stereotypes about Britain, based on my personal experiences over the years.
The British love their tea
Do they!! Lots of cups of tea daily! It is infectious, too. I have replaced drinking water with tea since I came to England!
Once you get to the UK, you are a rich wo/man.
Myth! Unless you are very clever or very lucky. Miracles do not happen from one day to another. Also, remember: Salaries may be high but cost of living is high, too!
British people like to hear lots of "please" and "thank you"
Fact. And you'd better adapt to the local code of conduct, too. That may be difficult if you (like me) come from a country where "please" exists only in the dictionary, but you don't want to come across as rude!
The British weather is horrible
Fact, fact, fact. It depends on the area though. Scotland is freezing. In southeast England things are not so bad. The last couple of years we have experienced warm, sunny summers, probably thanks to the greenhouse effect!
