Customs and habits of great britain introduction

7. English Habits of Politeness
Some greetings in England are very informal: a simple “good morning” or a wave of the hand across the street is quite enough. Handshakes are only exchanged on a first introduction or as a token of agreement or congratulation. “Sorry” takes the place of “no” when you cannot do something for a person or give a positive answer in situation like “May I use your pen?”, “Do you know the time?” or “Have you any size seven shoes?”. “Pardon” is the polite way of asking somebody to repeat what he has said.
English people do not readily ask each other to do anything, they prefer to wait for a service to be offered before asking for it. If they do ask, then they say something like “I don't really like asking you, but…”
It is considered polite to give up one's seat a woman who is standing, to open door for her, carry things for her, and so on.
8. Manners in Public
Our manners in public, like our manners in our homes, are based on self-respect and consideration for other people.
It is really surprising how stingy we are with our “Please” when we ask anyone to do something for us. We unwillingly part with our “Thank you”, as if it were the most difficult and costly thing in the world. We don't stand aside for others to pass us in the trams, buses or the underground. We don't rice to let people pass us to their seats in the theatres or movies.
Not to make yourself conspicuous, not to attract unfavorable attention to yourself or others, here are some of the rules for correct behavior in a public place.
1. Not to be conspicuous, don't wear conspicuous clothes.
2. One should not talk loud or laugh loud.
3. No matter how trying the circumstance, do not give way to anger or uncontrolled emotion.
4. Never eat anything in the street, or in a public place (restaurants, buffets and cafes excluded).
5. Do not rudely push your way through crowds.
6. Never stare at people or point at them.
7. Do not ridicule or comment on anyone in public.
8. Reserve “affectionate demonstration” (kissing, embracing, etc.) for appropriate places.
9. Don't monopolies the sidewalk, by walking 3 or 4 abreast, or by stopping in the centre to speak with someone.
10. When in the street keep to the right.