British Manners and Etiquette! | British Culture

[@rmuske]

My first trip to London I remember noticing how EVERYONE just understood when on the escalator, stand on the right, walk on the left. I was so impressed. People don’t get that here in the US and now it drives me mad!

[@inezwonderland]

Not only does taking empty plates make people feel that 'I am too slow and others are waiting for me', it also makes me feel like the waitresses are asking you to leave earlier so they can serve other customers... Thank you Joel & Lia, most of the manners are similar in Hong Kong, looking forward to enjoying my university life in UK :)

[@jewelsgrl]

I’m delighted at the fantastically dry tongue-in-cheek, self-deprecating humor here. I truly hope everyone got that part of it.

[@liamgoff1371]

Thats British humour for ya! We love joking about ourselves

[@jamier1459]

I've had Germans and American's tell me that the English habit of saying 'sorry' when we don't really 'mean it' is dishonest or hypocritical. However, they're really missing the point. We say sorry because we feel it is the right thing to do. It maintains a standard in civility, works to difuse potential conflict. Also, words have a magic to them- like a spell we can change our emotions through the language we use e.g. When I smile at and I'm polite to a stranger it actually gives me a positive feeling inside.

[@Sophie.S..]

Totally agree with you Jamie.

[@battleborn9930]

It's hard to be mad or pick a fight when someone has already apologized for their mistake. People forget that saying sorry doesn't mean you did anything intentional. It would be hypocritical if you intentionally did something to harm or offend someone and didn't feel bad about what you did. It's not hypocritical to say sorry when someone bumps into you, or you step on their toe. Most people in the US will say sorry. Big cities may be the exception.

[@TheJohnCooper]

Exactly what I’ve always said. Uk is a threatening place and saying sorry is a way to prevent a fight breaking out

[@therealsemites]

Both Germans and Americans are usually pretty callous in their dealings with other people though. They view sorry and other expressions of humility as an admittance of guilt or a sign of weakness. They don't appreciate the diplomacy involved.

[@itskeke-wk8ng]

I say sorry in my 4 hour work shift at sainsburys Atleast 10 times every shift. I’m an online shopper and work in a huge, busy sainsburys and always feel like I’m in the way. People say it back too, it’s just what you do. Even if I’m not in the way exactly and I don’t say sorry when I move my trolley I’d feel rude…it’s one word. Just shows a bit of thought or so I dunno

[@amymaliga1674]

I’m from the South and we absolutely use please & thank you, heck, you’ll also get a yes ma’am/sir , no ma’am/sir. We take great pride in manners. We will stand in line even if it takes hours to get to the front. (Thank you elementary teachers who drilled “single file” into our minds) and we will call someone out if they try and cut (you just don’t do that) as for the entering a train before everyone gets off, well that’s just stupid, unless you enjoy being trampled on? Anyway, I’m sorry you’ve experienced such bad behavior in the US. Come to Texas next time:-) We’d love to have you!

[@mirjamoosterbaan9032]

Amy Maliga ma’am to me in the Netherlands sounds like “mother” the English way is miss or mrs. and sir 😁😁

[@dwhetsel695]

My area of Tennessee uses please/thank you, yes/no ma’am/sir as well. It’s definitely a “Southern thang”😁

[@dodiecanova854]

Inland Florida as well - please, thank you, yes ma'am, yes sir & y'all are part of every conversation. Coastal Florida is def not Southern polite.

[@davidhuber2076]

@@dodiecanova854 I moved to coastal Florida from the Northeast several years ago. Coastal Florida has not been a Southern State (A culture I have come to respect) since the end of WW2.

[@rosemundyee6863]

Excuse me.. we here in Canada queue/we wait for people to get off train. HELLO CHECK OUT BEFORE U GUYS MAKE BROAD STATE MENTS CHECK WHAT OTHERS PLACES ARE DOING. THANK YOU.

[@christopherulrich3265]

I had never thought about the taking away of empty plates before EVERYONE is finished eating but that makes SO much sense! (I am not a server, btw). I can see how this would make someone who is not finished, very uncomfortable.

[@Rachel-re9ge]

I can understand why the plates being cleared early is frustrating. However, growing up in the states it's become a very normal thing that I don't even notice anymore. My guess as to why that happens is because I believe most servers see it as being attentive. They want to clear the plates so that you don't have a lot of empty plates in your way. The service industry can be a big deal sometimes and servers who get the most tips are usually those that don't make the customers wait for anything and are constantly attending to them. Clearing their table and bringing them anything else they may need.

[@robertocarlos2934]

You're beautiful 👍🏻

[@MrGmanishere]

I agree. Sometimes the tables can have so many plates on them that's it nice to see the table less crowded with them.

[@iparipaitegianiparipaitegi4643]

Maybe. It’s it’s rude anyway.

[@seeker4569]

@@iparipaitegianiparipaitegi4643 why exactly is it rude? They do this in America as a courtesy for the customers so that its less cluttered, clean, and more comfortable.

[@LP-zc4gy]

@@seeker4569 I’m American and I also find it rude. It’s one thing to take the appetizer plates away before the next course, but I hate that it makes me feel rushed to eat. However, I know it’s not done to be rude and it’s a way to clear space and get people on their way.

[@DanieVargas]

Just personal observations... living here in the Washington DC metropolitan area, riding the metro (our version of the Tube). We also wait for everyone to exit the car before getting on. As for clearing the table of empty dishes... the wait staff is usually responsible for clearing the table to get it ready for the next patron. In most restaurants, you’re given a 10 minute turn around time to get the table empty, wiped down and ready... so if you get sat with a party of 10, that 10 min turn around is practically IMPOSSIBLE... so we start taking empty dishes as they appear to help ourselves... and we ALWAY ask if you’ve finished eating before we take it away... and just me being me, I will leave 3 empty plates on the table BECAUSE someone will inevitably with be the SLOWEST EATER EVER and it’s embarrassing for that person to be the last one still eating at a table full of people... Just saying...

[@iparipaitegianiparipaitegi4643]

So rude.

[@zupermaus1]

In China there's an unsaid rule of 'queueing', which is up to 3 can approach the counter at a time (and the little old lady at the till will work out all your change simultaneously as she will have 6 arms). Thus if you're waiting patiently behind a lone person being served, you're also preventing two empty positions at the counter from being filled - which will become game for someone behind to push you out the way, exasperated, or literally just push you gently. Both parties will think the other idiots. In Russia you can silently leave your queue then reenter it when time to draw up at the counter comes, which is why you'll suddenly see people barge in front of you at the last minute. Both parties will think each other is pushing in. In Denmark if you ever, ever leave a queue, for example to pick something up you dropped or quickly grab an envelope from the counter etc, without consulting the person behind, your position is as good as gone. Your loss.

[@drsyedakiranumefarwabukhar2942]

I love the British culture politeness and mannerisms

[@afrigesinger2770]

Do you even know it? I call the UK home for 15 years but no way I will ever be that hypocrite and fake. Britons can manage being filthy fake so graciously that they’re better off getting in good terms with their unfortunate Brexit bad fever and actually stay “inland” because their so obvious and predictable poor manners, honesty, are not welcome anywhere else.

[@chrisotto7556]

These are all common courtesy in America as well.

[@AeronJames]

Totally agree on all of these, I remember when I went to Disneyland Paris and meeting characters was pretty much a clump of people pushing to be first and you could always tell who were fellow Brits as they'd always try and start a queue. The plates being cleared before everyone is finished is the other one that really gets to me as it just adds so much pressure to finish. Great video x

[@ThoseTwoBrits1]

Glad we're not the only ones! The plates thing really annoys us! haha! Maybe we just need to make a British Handbook that we give to other people when we go abroad! :'D. Thanks for watching Aeron! x

[@AeronJames]

I totally agree on the Handbook idea, would make things so less stressful haha x

[@chelsydiva6955]

Aeron James Yeah you're not the only one X

[@salfmandtheimitationartists]

you're at disneyland - it full of tourists

[@spiderdude2099]

Why do you care? You're the last one to finish, so what? I certainly hope your other friends aren't absolute pricks and are impatiently waiting for you to finish. There's no pressure involved hopefully and if there is just give a hearty American "fuck you" they will have to wait for you regardless. All this has shown me is that Brits could take a healthy dose of "who the fuck cares? Chill out."

[@adventuresofjumi4409]

I am from the United States, Southern states and I already do all these basically. Never been on the tube/subway but I get what you are saying. Oh a tip for restaurants in the U.S. When they come to get your plate just say you're not done yet and they will usually leave.

[@marshmallow1488]

Adventures of JuMi Yes, simply speak up and let them know your preference.

[@stellaroberts4213]

We definitely que, stand in line and wait our turn in the United States.

[@GraceYocum]

At restaurants here, taking your plate is actually supposed to be a nice things and a curtesy, so that your table is more clean and you have more space

[@Stephanie-is7bu]

if you’re eating in a semi or fine dining restaurant it’s normal for the servers to clear the table once the guests’ are done eating even though the rest are not done yet. But, of course before doing that, they will ask you first IF it’s ok to clear ur empty plate(s) or not.

[@verac6731]

Although I'm British, I've got used to the waiters taking away empty plates in Germany and I even feel upset when then don't come and take the empty dishes away. I never realized that this could disturb someone! This was really informative for me.

[@KM-lc4ke]

In America leaving a tip is our custom. It's rude not to. You have your customs and we have ours. You don't really need to come over if you don't want to. Respect goes both ways.

[@KM-lc4ke]

Why would you care? Manners go both ways period.

[@tashazalinski5250]

she would definitely tip in america. i think she meant that if someone took plates away during the meal in the uk she wouldn’t tip. trust me. us brits would always follow the rules in another country.

[@chrissylong6001]

It’s crazy how you can be rude without realizing it. I am American and I hate when the server doesn’t come gather the plates, because everything gets all crowded on the table.

[@ThoseTwoBrits1]

Just different personal preferences then!

[@HarpsiFizz]

I understand where you're coming from, but if you're in America, you really, really can't not give a tip to a waiter. See, in America, waiters are usually only paid about 2.60 an hour because -we're a shithole country- they're expected to make most of their money in tips. If someone in America is taking your plate away, it's because they're trying to serve as many tables as possible so they can, you know, _live_ . And in America, it's seen as bad service if a waiter doesn't clear your plate the second its done. I will always follow the courtesy rules when I visit your country, but I ask you to please try to understand the courtesy rules in our country when you visit us.

[@gracer7943]

HarpsiFizz , I understand where they are coming from. I do feel ofended when they do that if they don't ask. I try to allert the waiter so it would not happens.I understand they don't read mind and are following orders. But if it does, I would not order anything else and it would be reflected in the bill. People have dinners (business, or other personal matters)of all kind and the waiter simply would not hurry up things by being rude, they still have to wait until all members of the group finish.

[@texanboiii562]

HarpsiFizz we are not a shithole country you dumbass! And besides waiters know what they’re signing up for they’re not enslaved to that job.

[@handicapitation3250]

HarpsiFizz If you don't make good money as a waiter that's on you. I'm grateful for our tipping system and server pay. Shit, back in college I made a pretty good living waiting tables part time. I was averaging over $20/ hour, and was able to pay all my bills and still had time to study.

[@dancoll8166]

I tried to explain that concept to a friend from Australia. Australian servers make a living wage, while our servers make half or less than half of a living wage. I think that's because we, as Americans, expect good/pleasant service. If we don't get it, then that is reflected in their tip, or lack thereof. I asked my friend what he'd do if he received bad service; he said he'd tell management. When I said we hit them where it hurts, i.e., their pocketbook, he came to understand our tipping system a bit better.

[@vivmonkey]

HarpsiFizz wait, what state is this ? In California they average at $11 USD right now for server/waiter jobs.

[@ceilconstante7813]

I'm American but attended school in the UK in 1977. Please and thank you are Music to my ears! Not used quite as much in the USA. Manners are much more important in the UK and I wish more emphasis was put on etiquette here in the USA! Especially what you mentioned about restaurants clearing dishes while others at the table are still eating. It's very award!

[@DanKnopf]

All good advice! I think all of these are true in the US as well. People who live near a subway (NY, DC, Boston and LA) know the thing about waiting for people to get off of the train first, but so many people don't have any experience and are probably terrified that the train will leave them. The plate thing at the end I also think is rude, but I have found there to be a distinct difference between American- and European-style service, in an "Active versus Passive" sense. American servers want to make sure you know they are busy working and acting helpful, and they see the public more as clients, where European-style service does its best to seem invisible and be as quiet and polite as possible to their patrons. American waiters think people tip better if they look active. Again, thank you for making this! You two are my favorite!

[@ThoseTwoBrits1]

Ah, that's an interesting point. Tips probably play a big part in the difference in etiquette, as UK waiters don't rely on tips to make up a big proportion of their wage. I've noticed that difference in behaviour too when I go to the US - with the US waiters being a lot more involved, and I've seen waiters have long discussions with customers, whereas in the UK that doesn't tend to happen as people don't want waiters to talk to them in depth! haha. I'm going to America next week! Really looking forward to it! Thanks for watching Dan! We love reading your comments :) J

[@battleborn9930]

Yes this is true. I waited tables in college and people wouldn't tip well if they didn't see you. The more you interacted with them, talked to them, and the friendlier you were, the bigger the tip. If you came to the table with anything other than a huge grin on your face people would say before you even left that you weren't going to get a big tip. Of course you had to feel out each group. If they weren't receptive to talking, and were more focused on eachother then I'd know to be more invisible.

[@chantellenew2331]

The tube etiquette applies to elevators as well in the US. Please and thank you is used by adults and children, but not so much people in their teens and early twenties. Most areas in the states do have a line etiquette. If someone breaks the line etiquette polite people will guide them non polite people will yell at the. When I mean guide they will say things like the end of the line is right over there dear, or excuse me he's next. We say excuse me or pardon me more than sorry. Sorry, but please allow me to thank you for a great video. God bless.

[@patriciaayuso2189]

how about people that stand on the fast way on the escalator in the tube???

[@ThoseTwoBrits1]

Urrrrgh I hate that! But I secretly LOVE going "EXCUSE ME" when someone does that, and watching them panic!! haha J x

[@patriciaayuso2189]

Joel & Lia you evil person... hahaha

[@rowynnecrowley1689]

I have no idea what you just said, but I probably agree.

[@julianmarasco]

patricia ayuso I was gonna text me ill see it at the end Jordens goft and then it slipped my mind

[@x0angelofmusic9x]

Someone translate this for me please 😂

[@monetflores8481]

You have practically described the south in the US. Pleas and thank you, Ma’am and Sir, thank you cards, all of it! One awful thing we do is holding doors for others. It’s often frustrating if a person is holding a door and you feel the need to run so they don’t have to hold it for long, and the reverse is the “should I hold the door for them or are they too far away?”... we always end up holding it anyway.

[@jenifer6001]

OMG, not sure why this came up in my recommended now... but wow! You both look so different and I can totally see your growth! Love you guys.

[@cedar36]

Literally, same.

[@pigdog126]

In Las Vegas we eat at buffets a lot (all you can eat foe one price) , and we go back and forth several times throughout the course of the meal to try out various dishes (and because we are eating like pigs to get our money's worth). We get a clean plate each trip to get more, because it is not allowed (unsanitary) to bring a dirty plate to serve food. The wait person would be remiss if they allowed dirty plates to pile up on the table, and so it is with all restaurants in the US, not just buffets. They will always ask before taking a plate, even if it is empty, so if you want to leave it there just politely tell them no, you are not finished with it yet. Please tip your waiter/waitress when in America. They are doing their job, not trying to be rude or offensive. Love your channel. Cheers.

[@ladey2181]

I was surprised with the last one of taking and empty plate. As someone (in America) who has worked as a waitress and someone who likes going out to eat, this is just a polite way of making room so that you're not surrounded by dirty plates and other things that might be in your way. Joel and Lia, please tip your wait staff even if they do this. Clearing plates as soon as they are empty is what we consider attentive staff and good service! :)

[@fiatdragon]

In America I actually like when they take plates away because it feels less dirty and crowded at the table. I never feel rushed when someone else is sitting there and vise versa (not sure if that’s how you spell that lol) I like sitting at a clean table and honestly if I am finished first I always have a bear or another drink to sip on while I talk with the other people or person while the finish it’s never a rush...and in my experience if a restaurant does rush its customers it gets that reputation and people stop going

[@paulstrength8574]

Usually, in America, a waiter will ask if you want your empty plates taken. Especially in buffet situation. No one thinks about it. They're just making room for you.

[@cwell510]

My favorite Brits! Love these videos! I think the issue especially with us Americans is that basic etiquette has diminished through the decades. Growing up, manners and behavior were much more prominent as well as good order and discipline. I think I would fit in well in the U.K. Thanks for posting guys!

[@ThoseTwoBrits1]

yay! Hey Collin! Glad you're enjoying them! I wonder why that is? And I wonder if it'll ever go back to the way it was? Yes come to the UK and live here forever!

[@cwell510]

Joel & Lia Thanks for the fast reply! Yes, I may just have to get my visa ready and take a trip over there, especially now with the way things are going over here politically, lol!😉

[@ThoseTwoBrits1]

We're not normally this fast! Trying to turn over a new leaf! haha! Yeah, we don't blame ya! I'm going to America next week - first time since President Fart became Prezza.

[@cwell510]

Joel & Lia Ha ha! Yes he's quite the topic of interest. Hope you have a fun and eventful trip! Thanks again.

[@jeremy987]

In the U.K., when someone sneezes, is it common to say the phrase "bless you" as a why to be polite? We do that here in America.

[@Anenglishgent1987]

Yes, and it actually stems from a medieval belief that sneezing brought in the devil, so saying "bless you" was a way of ridding someone of this, so it's both based in religion and now seen as polite interaction.

[@michaelevans6669]

I feel the same way about waitress' rushing you away from the table, that's their Boss trying to get as many customers through the door as possible.

[@equinetll]

In the Southern US, specifically Texas, we absolutely wait in line, say please, thank you, sorry, yes ma'am, yes sir, etc. Come visit.

[@benlucas3625]

The tube thing goes for elevators too, wait for people to get off first and on sidewalks stay to the side so people can pass. At bars it sucks when people get service out of line. At grocery stores don't block the aisle with your cart and stay to one side. In th USA we usually stay on the right side in aisles and on sidewalks. On the dance floor there is etiquette too which many people don't follow, no drinks, don't cut across the dance floor, no standing around on the dance floor, don't get in the way, stay to the side if you don't know the dance and you're trying to learn, etc.

[@drsyedakiranumefarwabukhar2942]

Thanks ,sorry, I love you. She told us to always remember to use these magical words in our daily lives

[@drsyedakiranumefarwabukhar2942]

Politeness is strength

[@arranadams2776]

Growing up in the States, the tips/manners you are highlighted are taught as well. I think people are so focused on their respective lives that they ignore other people and just fail to respect others. The clearing of plates at the table is the norm in the States because no one wants to look at dirty dishes and it’s reduces the clutter at the table which is a distraction when having a meal with someone or if you happen to dinning alone.

[@CristiSomething]

I work at restaurant and we take plates off the table so they don’t get crowded because our plates are insanely huge. Haha but I always ask before I take them.

[@uechiwilliam]

I was thinking along the same lines. Usually the table is crowded with plates. Most of the time I'm hoping that the waitstaff will come by and take away the empty plates. I'd consider it rude for anyone to insist that their plate stay on the table.

[@iparipaitegianiparipaitegi4643]

Asking is the minimum

[@lisag4441]

We have the same subway prob in NY. We know a tourist walk on the left side instead of the right. They hold up crowd traffic. We always line up on the right side of the escalator to let other people (who are in a hurry) through. Even if your with someone, you get behind them on the escalator and line up to your right.

[@uechiwilliam]

The waitstaff will usually ask you if you'd like them to take your plate away. Just out of curiosity, if you were to order fast food or takeout, is it rude to throw away your empty containers before the other people are finished eating?

[@addiedailey7823]

I’m American, and I’ve never really put much thought into the waiters taking the plates before everyone’s done eating, and it’s kind of odd when you think about it. I think they just do that to save time and so the customers have more wiggle room.

[@VictorPerez-wl1cv]

Just because I am curious. What if you both went to a restaurant and had appetizers and by the time you received your entree you both finished the appetizers and there are now empty plates on the table. Would you prefer those plates to be left on the table while you have your entree or would you prefer them to be picked up?

[@johnr7279]

I am an American and we're different in many ways, of course. I am in the military and we love lines (your queue). When we're in situations where everyone is just sort of hovering around and everyone has to remember who's next, no one really likes that. A line is much easier to understand. We also hate what we call "line jumpers" or people who basically don't respect the line. I recently talked to a woman at an airport who did not seem to understand the need to wait her turn. We even have a saying in our Army: "Hurry up and wait." I am sure that one goes back to the Second World War when our military went from being relatively small to gargantuan. I totally agree on clearing plates and on waiting for everyone to be served before anyone eats. Both are very considerate and just plain good manners.

[@amandah.3083]

Usually wait-staff here in the US will ask, "Do you want me to clear these plates out of your way?" You can simply tell them that you would prefer they not.

[@drsyedakiranumefarwabukhar2942]

Strangers smile back and eager to help me always

[@tds_noel]

I used to live in the UK but these rules are actually the same in Japan! It’s always the people outside Japan who couldn’t queue, who rush on the trains before everyone gets off... and also saying “sorry” before everything.

[@JasonLLedford438]

Standing in line and waiting your turn is just as important in the US, especially in the south eastern part of the US. If you, try and jump in front of someone while in a line in the southern part of the us, you will make everyone mad at you and they will let you know it The reason they take your empty plates is because they are trying to get the plates out of your way. Who know you may want desert and need the space on your table. They are not trying to make you feel like your taking to long to eat. I hope this helps with future videos and please keep up the good work. Thanks.

[@dwhetsel695]

Jason Ledford in some places in the South, if it’s determined you willfully broke line, they will beat your a$$ and then show you where the line ends, lol!😁

[@Barrowsgirl1934]

Waiting your turn in line/queue is important here in the US too. I worked at Disneyland for many years and we called it a queue, not a line. I think it depends where you are from and how your parents raised you. Please and thank you, queuing, waiting for people to exit the train or elevator, waiting for everyone to receive food before beginning to eat etc are all commonplace for me and my friends.

[@iiTsaFantasy]

the tube etiquette... as an american, i observed this and the amount of times i've tried to get off the tube before people start getting on. it bugs me so much!

[@rowynnecrowley1689]

Same thing with elevators. (lifts)

[@chelsydiva6955]

Ah how we say “sorry" and “thankyou" for literally everything.

[@ThoseTwoBrits1]

haha, yep that's true!

[@mollybrown2064]

How do you get anything done if you don’t queue? Everyone would be pushing in front and you would never get your turn.

[@bscross32]

If I'm over at someone's house having dinner, I will wait to eat until everyone is seated, but if I'm out at a restaurant with people, I eat when my food comes, especially if it takes a while, I'm like getting hungrier by the minute, and I just go to town on it when it arrives. The plates, I don't really have an opinion, I think they do it so that you can have more space, and you can bring your coffee closer to you to sip on it after your food.

[@ggwilliams7091]

Is it okay to say "please" at the end of a question or is it better to say it at the beginning?

[@fancyfree5307]

It is exactly the same in the Netherlands, except from saying please in every sentence. It is however a stereotype about the british over here. Another stereotype is that your plate is removed while your family or friends are still eating. But I understand now that that stereotype about the british is not correct. I wonder where that stereotype comes from. English is not my native language, so if I made a mistake or wrote something that sounds odd PLEASE tell me.

[@dancoll8166]

It read beautifully.

[@sapturnus]

Here in Brazil it's not rude if the waiter takes away you plate before someone in the table is still eating. That's because people stay at the table forever, talking after the meal is over, is a social event. Restaurants around the world hate us for that, more than once friends and I were kicked off for it.

[@ThoseTwoBrits1]

haha, yeah I feel like you out-stay your welcome in a restaurant after about 1.5 hours!

[@ThoseTwoBrits1]

in a UK restaurant that is!

[@Jordimgras]

I'm from Barcelona and here it's normal that the waitresses take the empty plates before everyone's finished eating

[@aryachaudhari7283]

Yeah we call it “waiting in line” and I’d say it’s a big deal here (not as big a deal as in the UK 😂) but we’re taught to wait in line in school/parents from age 3-4

[@Bob31415]

Recently found this channel and have watched quite a few. This particular one from well over a year ago is so much more pleasant to watch than the more recent ones with all the obnoxiously annoying laughing every 10 seconds. Loved this one.

[@christinaliebing5137]

I feel like Americans line up wherever we go! It’s very rare to not stand in a line when waiting for a service or whatever you’re waiting for. When traveling out of the country, I’ve found that many other nationalities don’t form lines and it drove me insane.

[@RandomJane104]

That's true. If you are say waiting in a small establishment at a counter or something there may not be a line, but it isn't a big deal if it's just a few people where you can easily keep the order straight, but I feel like we make lines for most things. Men don't stand in line in the bathroom though...which I find super weird. I use to wondered why you always see a line for the women's restroom at big events and never for the men's. It turns out that men don't line up at each urinal or form one line. They just kind of stand around in there. At least that's what my dad said. So weird. Women automatically form one orderly line.

[@emerystheimmortal417]

I have to say that in my travels I find that you guys are more likely to cut in line than Brits would

[@RandomJane104]

It may depend on what part of the country the person is from. The US is a large place and we aren't all homogeneous. Or it may be that some people think they can get away with things abroad that they can't do at home. I don't know. You absolutely don't cut in line in my area or you will get more than a stern tutting. It's extremely rude to line cut here knowingly. Expect someone to verbally notify you that you have messed up and tell you to take your proper place at the end of the line more often than not. We will usually be polite about it at first assuming that you were ignorant and didn't realize you had cut in line. We will however occasionally offer to let people go in front of us at a register if they only have a couple of items and we have a cart full. Again, things may be different in other areas.

[@tashazalinski5250]

it’s the french that are the worst with queues. americans seem alright. just hope there’re no frogs in the queue.

[@Sophie.S..]

Italians are terrible too. Whilst waiting for a boat in Venice I was practically knocked into the canal with the rush to get onto the boat first.

[@harmonyln7]

I grew up in England and now live in Scotland and I find the thing of saying sorry for everything irritating. Queues are equally annoying because they take forever, although I agree it's important to wait your turn.

[@jackpot848]

I think in the Southern U.S. we got a lot of our mannerisms from "The Old Country..e.g., you guys". I grew up under threat of death if I failed to say "Thank you", "Please", "Yes sir" "Yes ma'am".

[@mychaunguyen5922]

thank you a lot! they're really useful ! it's also same in my country xx I come from Vietnam . and in the first advice, If anyone pass and don't follow the line, many people will annoy and they will complain directly to them , not just silently and see xx. These next advice are also same. I am impressive with Joel's experience in US, xxx

[@gr8o2h2o]

Yeah the clearing of plate thing is something I've noticed in America especially during lunch. I think Americans love clear space to begin with and time is money and want the bill as soon as possible so they can leave quickly. I notice they eat very fast as well. That pace changes a bit when it is a casual meeting for lunch or dinner.

[@merranvlogs]

You are so right about the thing at 4:18... getting into class is even more of a nightmare they don’t get it

[@すきっち]

Manners of Britain are similar to Japan’s one! It’s so helpful for me! Thank you for teaching🙇‍♀️

[@dr.westwood]

Re: Tube. In some countries the train operators do not keep the doors open long enough to allow everyone of and then allow everyone off. Especially in America. We have a schedule to keep after all and we wouldn't want anyone to be 4 minutes late starting their scheduled break or end of shift.

[@kathywilliams1050]

In the US we know how to "line up," but the lines get blurred. I've asked before, "Is this a line or a clump?" and everyone knows the order and someone will indicate where I am in the order.

[@patriciajollie9687]

The thing in the states is that wait staff are paid under minimum wage so the tip is what they live on it used to work well but it started changing in the nineties until now I feel like , well it doesn't even feel like America anymore every one is struggling

[@harboursghost1026]

Excellent video. Your subtle humor is terrific. I will be in London May 15 to 25 and promise to put my best foot forward.

[@kittryncarryon]

It’s my experience that most waiters will ask if you want you’re plate take away. It’s just common culture here and you can always say no, it also helps them prepare the table faster when you’ve gone. Tips are pretty important in the states as well, no tip is sending a message that the waiter has royally fucked up. I know it’s not as much of a thing in the UK, if they did one thing bad you might consider just giving a smaller tip.

[@RyanandAiden]

Omg! The sorry thing is sooo true haha ... I've said it many a time to things like lamp post that I've brushed into haha

[@ThoseTwoBrits1]

haha, yeah it's not a trait I like! I keep telling myself not to be so apologetic, but then it backfires when I actually DO need to apologise...!

[@jenniedarling3710]

Me too.

[@kitty-maymurray6113]

In China they have markings on the train stations showing which way to get on and off

[@527427knaka]

Here in Japan is the same. We always say "sorry"..., Subway/train get-off, get-on manner, Making line to wait until my turn comes.

[@handicapitation3250]

Not sure where all you've been in the US, but lines (queue) are a thing here too. Maybe not in LA or New York, but those places are like different planets.

[@truelily7]

I live in Arkansas and we stand in lines all the time. I usually ask if I am not sure where the line ends. I always say please and thank you. That is how I was raised. I also taught my kids this and my daycare kids. Most of this stuff I was taught as a child. I don't care about the plate thing. I hate sitting around dirty plates.

[@erindix9088]

Totally agree with these! The plates thing annoyed me too when I went to America! The tube thing isn’t just in London, I’m from the north east and everyone waits to get on the bus or metro until everyone is off

[@leslieharris2536]

In the US, the servers ask before they take a plate & most feel that is polite. They just wanna declutter your table because it’s nicer that way.

[@mysunettingpoem1244]

With the waiting for everyone to get their food, when I was in elementary school (your primary school) and we had a like special class snack, our teacher always made up wait for everyone to get their food before eating. But generally, I don't think Americans wait so... Also, from my experience, usually waitresses or waiters will ask if you are done with a plate before taking it

[@harmonyln7]

Oh I also like it when wait staff take away empty dishes, because it makes for less clutter and when I'm out, I prefer to focus on the conversation, because food is just a part of the experience. Actually sometimes I ask them to take away the empty plates etc. Another thing that is done in a lot of countries, not just the UK although it's more moticeable, is small talk. Gurrrr!

[@constant_change72]

I'm from Louisiana, a southern state in the U.S. and I LOVE ALL THINGS BRITISH! I love this channel, you guys are are awesome!

[@marywest2896]

me too Carmen, although Im from Arkansas.

[@Dolthara]

The thing with the tube just makes sense. There is more room on the train if you let people off first. I try to tell peoe that about busses and elevators here.

[@ferielbenayed6710]

Hey ! The etiquette you present is very very close to French one ! Except for saying sorry every time !

[@jrgboy]

Every country has it's own rules on social behaviour, I choose to stay in the UK for medical reasons so I'm not really interested in what others do but I do agree thatyou need to respect the traditions when abroad & don't mock them.

[@PapaLynn1]

Well now, weren’t you lot just adorable back in March 2017??!!!??!! I can’t believe this video is less than 2 years old. You are both so different now... not just in appearance, but mannerisms, and how comfortable you are on camera!! Such nuggets you were!!!

[@donna425]

I will be visiting in May and absolutely wait for everyone to get off the tube before I try to get on. Thank you for the heads up!

[@patriciajollie9687]

Yeah get in line , when I'm in Washington DC people will " cut in line" but when I went to Tennessee I expected fighting and cutting in line and a guy said "hey this is your spot in line" and I felt such a relief crazy

[@TheSekretaare]

Hi Joel and Lia. I've been living in the UK for the past 8 years and there is one thing that still confuses me to this day - how do I respond to the greeting "You're alright?" (I live in Yorkshire) without sounding rude?

[@kitskivich]

I waited tables when I was in school and can tell you that US wait staff will actively get in trouble with management if plates are not cleared when people are done eating. This is because diners expect to not have to look at their dirty plates after they’re done eating. I promise you it isn’t meant to be rude; indeed, it’s meant as quite the opposite.

[@lbell9695]

Australian here and yep everything is the same including waiting for everyone to exit the "tube" or as we call it the "train station" before entering the train. Not a surprise considering Aussie culture is heavily based off the British.

[@dellahowery5546]

People from what we call "south" are raised to say "please" and "thank you".Also people from this area are also taught "sir and ma'am" is required and the respectful way to address people.Waiters normally supposed to ask if it is okay to remove dishes from the table. Same with refills of your drink or they bring you a new one to you. They normally ask if you want one before they get one.People are supposed to que in a lot of places, doesn't always work though. People normally will say something to person who jumps the que. Personally, I find people very rude when this occurs. Some people will let a person go ahead of them for various reasons. If I have a cart full of items and person behind me only had 1 or 2 items go before me so they don't have to wait on my items to go through checkout.I normally say "talk to you later" when on the phone, or make the person know aware i can only talk for a short amount of time.I have a hard time eating in front of people who are not eating also. I ask the other person if they are ok with me eating in front of them, but still makes me feel bad.I hope that helped a little,.

[@ThePreparedMuslim]

This was genuinely very educational and surprising for me as an American. For us, clearing the table as we eat is a matter of practicality - I never imagined that there was the eating pressure amongst the British, who seem to be much more communal. For us there's usually no pressure, everyone kind of eats at whatever pace they like, and no one really cares what you're eating or at what pace. Really interesting insights into British norms.

[@ThePreparedMuslim]

PS Thank you for this video, and please forgive me for not saying please and thank you. ;)

[@mariapaulagarzonrojas8866]

I can say as a foreigner that sometimes because we are afraid of mispronounce the name of the food or what are we trying to say, I totally forgot to say "please" even if I do that in my language. But after a month in London I started doing it. I love your videos!!!

[@ktbooth5841]

Literally my favourite people!!

[@ThoseTwoBrits1]

Oh stop it you! x

[@ЛіліяЛобода]

I am from Ukraine and it is considered to be absolutely normal for waiters to come and take away an empty plate. And it doesn't matter if other people at the table have finished eating. So, I had no idea about this point to be a problem. Though, waiters usually ask if they are allowed to take the plate away. Does it make our culture a bit more polite?)

[@carolcarpenter4681]

The reason that plates are cleared as each person is finished is that generally Americans don’t like to sit at a table with an empty plate in front of them. I’m always happy to finish a drink while my dinner companion finishes their meal if I’m done eating first.

[@lynetteromine6755]

Hi, thank you for the information. I have no problems waiting in line, ques. I try to be polite and use manners. Hopefully, when I get to visit England again, I will be respectful and polite. Thank you for the information. Have an amazing day.

[@varinyy]

Oh thank you!

[@jkirton1964]

JUST started watching your videos today . . . LOVE them! Joel and Lia, I cannot help but ask, “Where in the United States did you visit that exhibited such rudeness toward you?” Most if not all of the things you mentioned in this video are practiced in the Lone Star State of TEXAS! 1. Standing in line (“queuing”) is very common every I’ve seen: airports, restaurants, and retail stores. 2. “Please” and “thank you” are taught here at a very young age. Now, I have heard that the British say “sorry” instead of “excuse me”, but that is totally okay. 3. While we don’t have a subway, we do have public transportation (buses) and you are right, riders should exit first before allowing new riders to board. 4. All of the wait servers here in Texas always ask before they take away plates and flatware, “Are you finished? May I take that away?” which gives we, the consumer/customer, the option. On behalf of the United States, our apologies for our rudeness!

[@rockinitbarbietvtm]

I agree with you guys about the waiters and waitresses take the empty plates before everyone else has finished with theirs. I don't get why they do that here in the U.S.

[@houseofbeckschannel3586]

Brits are so polite and full of compliments to others. From Philippines here and I was able to handle issues of Brits in BPO.