This post has evolved out of various conversation with friends about stereotypes. I don’t want to write a piece just about stereotypes of both nationalities because, well that’s just stereotypical. It’s more of a comparison piece.
Lets start with Britain and the British as general:
Politics
Just as hopeless as every other country. Like most of Europe the far right (or not so far right) have started to win seats in the Uk and Eu parliament, but I honestly believe that The great British public are just so fed up with the 3 main parties that these are “protest votes.” This party in questions UKIP is full of as much hot air as the rest of them, and if they do get more seats in next years elections, its hardly likely they would follow through with any of their policies.
The weather
Yes it rains a lot (but not ever day) In fact since moving to Budapest the weather seems to have improved greatly, there actually was a summer this year, kinda typical really. Yes we like to talk about the weather, but it can be so changeable, so its not like every conversation is the same.
Immigration
A sore subject for most! Common opinions include “they take all our jobs” “they use all our resources (nhs,schools ect)” and my favorite “they come here for benefits.” My opinion of immigration in the UK is quite different, I believe it has enriched the country and made it such a more dynamic place to live, but this is a subject for a different post.
The NHS
The Great British institution everybody loves and dislikes at the same time. It’s great that free health care is available, but it’s so stretched beyond it’s means. It’s near on impossible to get a drs appointment, you wait weeks or months for specialised appointments or treatments. That said we could not live without and would never be able to change to an insurance system similar to the US.
North vs South
Southerns are generally more reserved we don’t really know what to do when a stranger talks to us (unless its for directions). Our northern neighbors are far more open and will speak to anyone no matter the situation.
Queuing
The world over believe that The British like to queue. Come on know one likes to queue, but when it has to be done, why shouldn’t it be in an orderly fashion, where every gets their turn in the order they arrived.
Banking
Simple, easy and free for the general public using a basic current account.
Official administration
It’s very easy to find out anything government related online, most things can be done online or via post, no need to go to official offices.
The Royal Family
In recent years since Kate and Prince William got married the love for the royal family has returned, although I’m sure there are the usual moaners who think they are a drain on public funds.
Day to Day life
Always in a rush not enough hours in the day. This is not just in the major towns and cities, but smaller ones. Is it really necessary?
Moaning Myrtles
British people like to have a good old moan about everything. The main topics being the weather, immigration, the economy, petrol prices (it only has to go up a penny and the day is ruined)
Humor
British comedy is dry and very sarcastic. Enough said.
Customer Service
Generally very good. Companies have clear and easy to find returns policies / terms and conditions. Also the British people are very aware of their consumer rights.
What’s your opinion, experience or stereotype of Britain and the British?
Hungary and the Magyars to follow in the next post 😛
A Brit Girl living in Budapest 