Britain's
customs, history, culture, life, living

This book is the Britain edition of the World Cultural Journey series and covers the overall customs, history, culture, lifestyle, and life of Britain.
Whether you're visiting Britain for business or simply for pleasure, we'll help you make your time in Britain richer and more memorable.
This book contains information about British local customs and traditions, history, religion, politics, the homes, workplaces, leisure, food, clothing, shelter, and communication of the British people.

The monarchy is Britain's oldest system of government.
The monarchy of Britain dates back to 829, when King Egbert of Wessex united England.
The only time the monarchy was broken was during the short-lived republic (Commonwealth, 1649–1660) established by Oliver Cromwell.
Few people long for this brief experiment called the Republic.
---From "01 Territory and People"

Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland share some similarities with their neighbors, England, but they also have fundamentally different cultures.
Therefore, when visiting these countries, if you know their different histories, have a certain level of sensitivity, and know how to distinguish the characteristics of each country, you will always be welcomed and will greatly benefit your experience.
---From "02 Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland"

The instinct for tolerance, fair play and compromise, along with a strong sense of justice, are fundamental Briton traits.
That's why we have a centuries-old legal system, a vast network of volunteers and charities, and a universally receptive attitude toward queuing.
In September 2022, queues stretched 16 kilometers to pay their respects at Westminster Hall in the Palace of Westminster, where Queen Elizabeth II's coffin lay in state, with people patiently waiting for 24 hours.
---From "03 Values ​​and Way of Thinking"

Domestic traditions, such as exchanging gifts on Christmas Day, have been passed down for generations and are still practiced by the majority of Britons.
There are also customs that are widely known to be performed in specific places or times, such as the Maypole dance in May.
An important element of being British is following, or at least respecting, traditions and customs.
---From "04 Customs and Traditions"

It is important to hone your skills in light conversation to break the ice or build relationships.
Being polite ultimately means always being considerate of other people's feelings.
This could include not playing music too loudly in public places, holding doors open for others, or attending social events with colleagues even if you don't want to.
---From "05 Making Friends"

The belief that 'an Englishman's home is his castle' led many people in the 1960s to own rather than rent their homes.
Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher encouraged homeownership by introducing the Housing Act in 1980, which gave rented housing residents the right to buy their own homes at a reduced rate.
However, most Britons still want to take out a mortgage and buy a home immediately, but with supply limited and prices soaring, that dream is becoming increasingly difficult to achieve.
---From "06 Daily Life"

London is the most cultural city.
There are countless things to enjoy, including music, art, and theater.
In addition to world-renowned museums and art galleries, London is home to many lesser-known specialist museums, including the Design Museum, the London Transport Museum, and the National Maritime Museum, all of which are free to enter.
Reservations are essential to secure tickets for the week leading up to the latest paid exhibition or to secure the best seats in the theater.
---From "07 Leisure Life"

Britain has a reasonable public transport system.
Despite everyone's complaints, it's still safe, clean, and generally reliable.
The cheapest means of long-distance transportation is the bus (express bus).
National Express operates express buses nationwide on a set schedule, and other bus companies also operate nationwide.
Some long-distance express buses have restrooms, and most stop at highway rest areas, such as Welcome Break, to give passengers time to use the restroom or purchase hot drinks, food, snacks, and magazines.

---From "08 Travel This and That"