CULTURE CORNER: BUS MANNERS (UK)

Public transport acceptable behaviour differs greatly from country to country as it is an element of culture. British people are well-known for their politeness, reserved manners and self-discipline. 

So, what are the DOs and DON'Ts when you take the bus in the UK? We'll give you the lowdown on Bus Manners!

    DOs 

• Wait patiently for your turn in the (orderly formed) queue. 
• Say hello to the bus driver when you get on the bus. 
• Have your money ready when boarding. (In the UK people pay for their ticket to the bus driver.)
• Have the exact amount of money for the ticket. ONLY COINS. 
• Say "excuse me" if someone is blocking your way and you would like them to move. 
• Offer your seat to an elderly person, POLITELY!
• Use your headphones if you're listening to music or read your newspaper SILENTLY.
• Respect people's privacy. STAY SILENT!
• Say "cheers" or "thank you" to the bus driver when you get off the bus.

    DON'Ts 

• Don't jump the queue!!!Don't take somebody else's turn even by mistake. You'll find yourself being frowned upon.
• Don't be grumpy to the bus driver. They appreciate it if you show that you respect their job.
• Don't look for the ticket money when you're already on the bus. Bus drivers run on a tight schedule and people are in a hurry to go to their jobs.
• Don't give bank notes and do NOT ask for change!!!
• Don't speak loudly!!!
• Don't speak loudly on your mobile phone.
• Don't start chatting with the people sitting next to you.
• Don't sit on the bench at a bus stop to rest. It will make the bus driver stop for no reason.
• Don't eat or drink on the bus.