Japa: 5 things you MUST know about Brits before relocating to the UK

If you are planning to Japa to study, or work in the UK – or if you have recently just arrived, you are welcome!

This article highlights five important things you should know about British culture and ways of life that you are probably not familiar with or used to.

This living in the UK guide is a must-read for all who are keen to Japa to the UK or those who are new to the country.

1. The UK is a four-in-one country

The United Kingdom is quite very diverse and It is worth noting that it comprises of four individual countries merged into one – namely England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Each of which has a devolved government with slightly different laws and a distinct culture.

Accents also vary and sometimes languages too. For example; in Wales, Welsh is spoken alongside English. The people can also be referred to as British or “Brits” for short.

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2. British humour is coated with a lot of banter and sarcasm

British humour is globally known for being slightly odd, but at the same time, it is admired and copied around the world.

It is safe to say that you will come across a lot of dry, sarcastic humour that is subtle, making it hard to know when someone is cracking a joke or not. You just have to be ready for unusual jokes and banter to enjoy British humour.

3. Brits love their Pubs

In the UK, going to pubs on the weekends and evenings after work to drink, eat, watch sports, and socialise is quite common.

Pubs and Brits are five and six – so remember when visiting one that you don’t need to drink alcohol because you can always get a soft drink. And always remember the Golden Rule – which is to always buy your round! 

This is a central part of pub etiquette and means that you will have your drinks bought for you by the people you go with – and in return, you should never leave the pub until you have bought them a drink.

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4. Brits are ‘obsessed’ with the weather

Talking about the weather is a hobby here in the UK due to the unpredictability of weather across the entirety of the United Kingdom.

The weather can change in an instant, and locals like to say that one can experience four seasons in a day. Whether hot, warm, cold, or raining, the weather is always a source of conversation and entertainment amongst Brits.

5. Brits are fussy about queuing

One of the most fascinating things you will quickly learn when you arrive in the UK is that Brits are patient when queuing and are quite fussy about it.

There is no excuse for jumping to the front of the queue. Even when you are in a hurry, you should not cut in front of others as this is seen as being rude.