Traveling to live in a foreign country is an enriching experience, but it also comes with its own share of cultural shocks. As a first-time Chinese student in Manchester, a vibrant and diverse city in the UK, I have encountered many eye-opening moments that have reshaped my understanding of British culture. Here are eight culture shocks that left an impression on me during my trip to Manchester.
1. weather whiplash
Manchester is famous for its unpredictable weather. Coming from an area with relatively stable seasons, I was caught off guard by frequent rain, sudden drops in temperature, and intense sunshine. Carrying an umbrella became a daily necessity, and I quickly learned the versatility of layering. For example, I’m obsessed with wearing a winter jacket and wearing a summer dress inside. So whether it’s a miserable minus 3 degrees outside or 20 degrees indoors, it can survive perfectly.
Image: Rain in Manchester/The MANC
2. Habit of standing in line for everything
British people are known around the world for their love of queues. In China, where I live, people don’t seem to care much about queuing, especially for people who are trying to get things done in a hurry. But here, on the contrary, the orderly queues, whether waiting for public transport, entering museums, or ordering food, were a refreshing change from the hustle and bustle we’re used to. To avoid appearing rude, you should always pay attention to whether there is a long line or if you are accidentally cutting in. Patience and civility prevail, and the procession has become a symbol of British civility.
3. humor and irony
British humor is legendary, known for its wit and sarcasm. At first, it was difficult to understand the subtleties, and it was perplexing when the whole room suddenly started laughing. However, over the course of this first semester, I have come to appreciate the witty, self-deprecating humor that permeates everyday conversation, and I am actually trying to practice ‘British humour’ myself.
Four. diverse meal options
Before I came to the UK, I often heard other Chinese people refer to this place as a “food desert”. However, the food here in Manchester is completely different from the Chinese food we are familiar with, and it’s not as bad as people say. Indeed, Manchester’s diverse reality makes its culinary landscape a melting pot of flavors from around the world. By exploring the diverse food scene, I was able to discover cuisines I had never encountered before, from traditional British cuisine to fusion cuisine from around the world. Manchester’s restaurants offer culinary adventures. Even if I personally – no offense – still can’t appreciate how good some foods are (like some pastries for example). It’s loaded with lots of sugar, black pudding, and eel jelly…).
5. Pub culture
Pubs play a central role in Britain’s social life, and Manchester is no exception. The concept of having a beer with friends after work or spending a lazy Sunday afternoon in a cozy pub was completely new to me. In China, going to a pub is considered bad manners, and drinking alcohol is even more frowned upon. But drinks aren’t the only issue here. It’s about friendship and a relaxed, sociable atmosphere that brings individuals together.
6. It’s tea time!
China has a rich tea culture, but I was pleasantly surprised by the British way of thinking about tea time. We Chinese like to slowly brew regular tea with fresh tea leaves, but British tea is usually tea bags with milk and sugar. Afternoon tea with scones, finger sandwiches and a variety of teas is also a cherished tradition.
Image (in header): British Tea VS Chinese Tea (Brighton.ac.uk)
7. Different perceptions of efficiency and time
Given China’s large population, both study and work opportunities are often highly competitive. Thus, many people are constantly in a hurry throughout the day, doing as much as possible efficiently and in order to perform better than others. However, since arriving in the UK, my appreciation of time and efficiency has been renewed. local people. I realized that I was putting pressure on myself to be in a hurry all the time and I wasn’t enjoying it. I allow myself to spend an entire afternoon just sitting in the park, enjoying the sunshine and nature, developing hobbies that previously felt like they would take up too much time, and just appreciating the present moment. Now you can.
8. Mancunian spirit
Manchester is famous for its resilience and community spirit. The warmth and friendliness of the Mantunians gave me an unexpected sense of connection and calm. The city’s rich history, cultural diversity and the indomitable spirit of its people create a unique atmosphere that I am grateful to be a part of.
Being a Chinese student in Manchester was an enlightening journey full of culture shocks that broadened my horizons and greatly enriched my life. Traveling through this unique blend of tradition and modernity has helped me appreciate the beauty of diversity and find common ground in the shared experiences of humanity. As we continue to explore Manchester’s vibrant streets, we look forward to embracing more cultural nuances and forging connections across borders.