In general the UK is a country steeped in tradition and history. With centuries worth of traditional folklore and superstitions, the UK could give an explanation to any of its quirky routines. For instance, it is considered to be bad luck if the branch of a yew tree is brought into a home in the West of England during christmas time, whilst in the East of England, it is used to decorate christmas time window sills. Some of these traditions even span back to the age of the Druids, and the true reasons behind them may have been lost completely. Nevertheless, the Brits stick to their routines, and the country has all the more flavour for it, no matter how irrational it may seem to the outside eye.
It’s no surprise then, that this tradition seeps in to the habitual routine of everyday Londoners, but whilst the ancient traditions of rural Britain may have lost their true meaning, the logic is there in London. If you’re visiting the Hotel Paddington Court London and feel absolutely baffled by the rules of the city, then this is the blog for you. Londoners have created a seamless ecosystem of queues, travelcards and silent tube journeys, and if you want to integrate, then it’s best you learn from them.
Stand on the right hand side, walk on the left
When using the escalator, always make sure that you are standing on the right hand side, and if in a rush, walk on the left. The London underground system is full of rushing commuters, and if they’re in a hurry, they’ll sure show it. Not only does standing on the left hand side annoy those walking down the escalator, it can be very dangerous indeed. One small push and you could be tumbling down up to 61 metres of metal escalator.
Priority seating on public transport
This one should be common sense. If you are using public transport in the city, the seats closest to the doors are usually reserved for older or pregnant people, or those who are less able to walk. If you are taking a corner seat, it is respectful to give it up for somebody fitting these categories.
If you’re claustrophobic, avoid rush hour
Rush hour can get very hectic indeed. If you are looking for a relaxed tube journey, then avoid the hours of 7.30 till 9.30, and 4.30 till 7. Between these hours you can expect a mass influx and exodus of Londoners leaving their offices and migrating back home. This can lead to serious congestion, and sees a hike in travel fares.
Respect others privacy
Compared to other countries, Londoners can be very reserved. The English are private people, but that doesn’t mean they don’t know how to be sociable. That being said, the average Londoner will be a little taken aback if you attempt to strike up a conversation with them out of the blue. Don’t think it rude if they disengage from talking, it’s just the natural way of the city. Regardless if you want to learn more about the city, need directions or just want to talk to a local, if you catch someone at the right time, they’ll often be more than happy to talk to you.
Queue in an orderly fashion
Londoners don’t love to queue, but due to the huge amount of people in the city, it can make it a lot easier to get things done in an orderly way. Whether at a museum, waiting for public transport or in a coffee shop, queues are regimented in their organisation and respected by the locals
