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Quick guide for those coming to the UK for the first time.
Quick Guide:
 The UK is located in north western Europe.
The capital city of the UK is London, other major cities include Birmingham, Liverpool, Manchester, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Belfast and Sheffield.
The population of the UK is about 60 million.
The currency is the British Pound..
The UK's main trading partners are the EU (mostly, Germany, France and Holland) and the U.S.
Climate is temperate; moderated by prevailing southwest winds over the North Atlantic Current; more than one-half of the days are overcast.
The official language is English.
The main religion in the UK is Anglican followed by Roman Catholic.
Sports are popular here, especially football, rugby and golf.
Kent in south east England is only 35 km from France and now linked by tunnel under the English Channel.
Introducing Yourself
Wait until you have been given permission before using first names.
When you are on a first name basis with someone, make an effort not to repeat their name in a conversation.
Use of first names is becoming prevalent in newer industries.
Courtesy titles such as "Sir" or "Madam" are usually regarded as inadequate.
When meeting a man for the first time, a handshake is an appropriate greeting.
Smiling or nodding is a sufficient greeting for people you see on a daily basis.
Generally, the English prefer third-party introductions whenever possible.
Appropriate Behaviour
When talking, make an effort to keep your hands to your sides and out of your pockets.
Speak in a moderate tone and avoid shouting or talking too loudly.
Backslapping and hugging gestures are discouraged as they are not usually appreciated.
Maintain a wide distance between people when in conversation.
Tapping the fingers on the nose is a popular gesture and is generally percieved as a sign of confidentiality. This gesture is often used among friends and during social events or gatherings.
Do not use the expression "Have a nice day", as this is not a British phrase and is generally frowned upon.
Queuing, that is, standing in line is quite acceptable here and people generally do not push or shove.
Maintaining eye contact is necessary, especially when you are trying to make a point.
Emotional displays, whether negative or positive, and especially in public places are generally discouraged.
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