I have put up a list of 25 things most of us unconsciously do abroad which poses a different narrative to our host. If you implement these corrections, you will see the whites loving you like their own.
Reading through these 25 things will keeping you smiling all through as an African because back home, we dont see it as anything. Infact its even part of our ways of mutual and sincere expressions.
1. Saying “no” to tea … it is practically a peace offering.
Don’t say no to tea if you don’t want to annoy them.
2. Wearing flip flops in public … unless you’re at a beach, don’t.
Don’t try it.
It is crass.
3. Arriving earlier than the stated time for events … it puts pressure on the host.
4. Saying “cheers” instead of “thanks” … “cheers” is casual, not always appropriate.
5. Calling the “loo” the bathroom … call it the loo or the toilet, never “bathroom.”
6. Jumping the queue … Britain is built on orderly lines, never skip one.
7. Speaking too loudly in public … a softer tone is considered polite.
8. Asking personal questions too soon about money, age, relationship status… avoid them.
9. Not holding the door for someone behind you …it’s basic courtesy.
10. Standing on the left side of the escalator … the left is for walking, always stand on the right.
11. Not apologising for the smallest inconvenience … “sorry” is social glue here.
12. Touching people unnecessarily … hugs, taps, or grabbing someone’s arm is seen as intrusive.
13. Cutting into conversations … interrupting is a major offence.
14. Being too direct or blunt … subtlety is valued, soften your words.
15. Not saying “please” when asking for something … it is non-negotiable.
16. Ignoring queuing systems in shops or bus stops … they will notice, and they will judge.
17. Eating loudly … slurping, smacking, or chewing noisily is frowned upon.
18. Not making eye contact when saying thank you … it feels insincere.
19. Leaving without saying a polite goodbye even a soft “thanks, lovely evening” will do.
20. Pushing onto the train before people get off …let others exit first.
21. Not smiling at strangers or when your gaze meets someone’s.
It is basic politeness to smile.
22. Not respecting personal space … keep a modest distance, don’t stand too close.
23. Boasting…humility is admired in Britain, bragging is not.
Bragging is a serious turn off.
They are very humble and modest people.
24. Talking during a film, performance, or ceremony … quietness is expected.
25. Not offering your seat to the elderly, sick, ill, pregnant, or disabled … it’s basic decency.