As a country rich in history and cultural heritage, the United Kingdom offers stunning natural landscapes and a diverse range of lifestyles, providing unforgettable experiences. Whether you are studying, working, or traveling in the UK, this guide will provide useful information and advice to help you adapt to life in the UK.

 

 

Culture and Etiquette

 

The British value etiquette and a humble attitude. It's important to maintain politeness and respect when interacting with British people.

- During the first meeting, avoid prolonged eye contact as it can make them uncomfortable. Handshakes are commonly used as a greeting, but avoid crossing hands with the British, as it forms a cross shape. When greeting close friends or family, it is common, especially if greeting or being greeted by a woman, to lightly kiss on the cheek.

- Maintain an arm's length distance when conversing with people, as it is generally accepted. Being too physically close may be seen as aggressive and make people uncomfortable.

- It is important to follow the queueing rules in public places such as shopping centers, bus stops, restaurants, etc. Queuing is a tradition among the British and reflects their discipline and sense of order.

- The British are known for punctuality, and being late is considered impolite, even rude. If you encounter a minor issue that will cause you to be late, it is important to contact the relevant person and inform them of your estimated time of arrival.

- "Please", "thank you", and "sorry" are normal parts of everyday conversation and interaction. When dining, it is important to avoid making noise or engaging in loud conversations.

- The British value privacy above all, so it is important to be cautious and avoid unintentional eavesdropping. Asking a British person "Have you eaten?" can be seen as crude and impolite, similar to asking a woman her age, as it is considered a personal matter. The weather and football are safe topics for easy conversation with others.

- The British enjoy social activities such as hosting tea parties, going to pubs, attending gatherings, or participating in outdoor activities. You can meet new friends and learn about local culture and lifestyles through these activities.

 

Weather and Seasons

 

The weather in the UK is known for its variability, with frequent showers and large temperature differences between day and night. It is recommended to carry a foldable umbrella and a lightweight jacket to prepare for sudden weather changes.

 

Spring

 

In the UK, spring sees a gradual rise in temperatures, but still remains relatively low, with an average temperature of around 10°C. Showers and cloudy weather are common, and the climate is damp. It is important to maintain indoor ventilation and ensure a dry living environment to prevent colds and dampness. Additionally, spring is the season for flowers in the UK, and you can visit parks to enjoy the beauty of blooming flowers.

 

Summer

 

Summer is a relatively warm season in the UK, with average temperatures around 20-25°C. However, it often experiences overcast skies and showers, so it is advisable to carry lightweight rain gear when going out. The UK has longer daylight hours in summer, so it is important to protect yourself from sun exposure. Moreover, summer is a great time to experience the UK's music culture and sports atmosphere, with numerous outdoor music festivals and basketball games.

 

Autumn

 

Autumn is the rainy season in the UK, with higher precipitation and decreasing temperatures. The winds in autumn are often strong, so it is recommended to prepare some windproof and warm clothing as well as rain gear. Autumn in the UK offers pleasant natural scenery, and you can visit mountainous areas or parks to admire the beauty of autumn foliage.

 

 

Winter

 

In the UK, winter temperatures often drop below freezing, with the lowest temperatures reaching around -5°C. Snowfall is relatively rare, but there are frequent overcast and rainy days. Thick coats and scarves are essential during winter. Winter is also a festive season in the UK, with important holidays such as Christmas and New Year. It is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local festival atmosphere and experience the culture and customs of the UK.

 

Transportation and Public Transport

 

The transportation system in the UK is highly developed, offering various modes of transportation for you to choose from. Public transport is one of the most commonly used means of travel, including the underground, buses, and trains. Applying for a transport card (Oyster Card) allows for convenient payment of transportation fares, eliminating the need to buy tickets in advance and enjoying discounts.

 

In the UK, driving is on the left side of the road, so please be aware and adapt to left-hand traffic. If you plan to drive in the UK, it is important to familiarize yourself with local traffic rules and ensure that you have a valid driver's license and vehicle insurance.

 

 

Consumption and Currency

 

The currency used in the UK is the British Pound. When it comes to daily expenses, most shops and restaurants accept card payments, but a few may require cash, so it's advisable to carry a small amount of cash with you.

 

For cross-border remittance and currency exchange needs, you can use banks or third-party payment platforms.

 

• Banks - Sending money through banks is secure and reliable, but the process can be cumbersome, fees are higher, and real-time tracking of the remittance process is not possible.
• Third-party payment platforms - With the popularity and development of the internet, third-party payment platforms such as Panda Remit and PayPal can also meet cross-border remittance needs, offering convenience, speed, and peace of mind.

 

Currently, Panda Remit has obtained legal financial licenses in various countries, using advanced encryption technology and strict risk control systems to ensure the security of user funds and privacy. It also provides efficient payment services, allowing users to enjoy the convenience of receiving funds in as fast as 2 minutes while ensuring both security and practicality.

 

Additionally, Panda Remit has established partnerships with multiple banks and payment institutions worldwide, covering various countries and regions. With just a mobile phone, you can complete global remittances. Recently, Panda Remit has partnered with PayPal, supporting remittances from Singapore, Australia, Japan, the United States, and Canada to Hong Kong, followed by receiving payments through PayPal!

 

Food and Dining

 

The UK has a rich and diverse food culture. You can try local traditional dishes, such as the famous English breakfast which typically includes toast, fried eggs, bacon, sausages, and fish and chips. In addition, a wide variety of international cuisines is available in the UK, including Chinese, Indian, and Italian.

 

 

Tea is popular in the UK, and afternoon tea is a traditional custom usually consisting of black tea, cakes, bread, and biscuits. The British refer to afternoon tea as "tea break," which typically lasts for about fifteen to twenty minutes. Many people also have the habit of having morning tea. Additionally, there are many pubs and taverns in the UK where you can try local beers and Irish whiskey, among other beverages.

 

When dining in the UK, it is customary to give a tip to the waitstaff, generally around 10% of the total bill.

 

Health and Medical Care

 

The National Health Service (NHS) in the UK provides free medical services for British citizens and permanent residents for most illnesses. To receive free medical services, after obtaining a UK visa, you need to register with a general practitioner/community doctor (GP) based on your address. Upon successful application, you will receive a unique NHS number.

*After successful registration, you can receive free medical services (excluding dental and ophthalmic services) at general GP clinics and NHS public hospitals.

 

 

In the UK, if you are ill and it is not an emergency, you usually do not go directly to the hospital but visit a community clinic (GP). The GP will assess your condition and determine if medication is needed. If medication is required, the GP will issue a prescription, which you can take to a pharmacy or supermarket to purchase the medication.

 

*Note that in the UK, you need to schedule an appointment with the GP in advance and arrive for the appointment within the specified time.

 

In case of an emergency, you can dial the UK medical helpline 111 or the emergency service hotline 999, or go directly to a private hospital.

 

Tourist Attractions

 

The UK has many stunning tourist attractions, including Big Ben and Buckingham Palace in London, Edinburgh Castle in Scotland, St. David's Cathedral in Wales, and the beautiful lakes of the Lake District in England. Whether you prefer cities or natural landscapes, there are many places in the UK worth exploring.

 

 

In addition, the UK has many shopping centers and districts, with London being a popular shopping destination offering a wide range of options from large department stores to small boutique shops, where you can find various branded goods. Apart from malls, there are also many weekend markets and flea markets in the UK, where you can discover unique items and crafts.

 

In summary, the UK is a charming and diverse country. Hopefully, this guide will help everyone better adapt to British life and have a pleasant time!

 

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