Embarking on a journey to live in a foreign country is an enriching experience, but it also comes with its fair share of cultural shocks. As a Chinese student new to Manchester, a vibrant and diverse city in the United Kingdom, I’ve encountered numerous eye-opening moments that have reshaped my understanding of British culture. Here are 8 cultural shocks that have left a lasting impression on my journey in Manchester.
1. Weather Whiplash
Manchester is renowned for its unpredictable weather. Coming from a region with relatively stable seasons, the frequent rain showers, sudden temperature drops, and bursts of sunlight caught me off guard. Carrying an umbrella became a daily essential, and I quickly learned to appreciate the versatility of layering clothing. For example, I have fallen in love with wearing a winter jacket with a summer dress inside, so I can perfectly survive both the miserable minus-three degrees outdoors and 20 degrees indoors.
Image: rain in Manchester/ The MANC
2. The Habit of Queuing for Everything
Brits are known around the world for their love of queuing. In where I live in China, people seem not to care about queuing that much, especially for those who are in a hurry to get things done. But here on the contrary, whether it’s waiting for public transport, entering a museum, or ordering food, the orderly queues were a refreshing change from the hustle and bustle I was accustomed to. I always have to be mindful of whether there was a queue and whether I was cutting in by accident, to avoid appearing rude. Patience and courtesy prevail, making queues a symbol of British politeness.
3. Humour and Sarcasm
British humour is legendary, known for its wit and sarcasm. Initially, I found it challenging to catch the subtleties, and I was bewildered when a whole room of people suddenly started to laugh. But over this very first semester, I grew to appreciate the quick wit and self-deprecating humour that permeates everyday conversations, and I’m actually trying to practise ‘British Humour’ myself.
4. Diverse Food Choices
Before I came to the UK, I frequently heard other Chinese people refer to this place as a ” Food Desert”. However, the food here in Manchester is just very different from the Chinese food that we are familiar with, and it’s not as bad as people described. In fact, due to the diverse reality of Manchester, its culinary landscape is a melting pot of flavours from around the world. Exploring the diverse food scene exposed me to cuisines I had never encountered before, from traditional British dishes to global fusions, Manchester’s restaurants offer a culinary adventure, even though I personally – no offence – still can’t get some food’s deliciousness (e.g. some pastries with LOADS LOADS of sugar, black pudding, jelly eels…).
5. Pub Culture
Pubs play a central role in British social life, and Manchester is no exception. The concept of grabbing a pint with friends after work or spending a lazy Sunday afternoon in a cosy pub was entirely new to me. In China, we regard going to the pub as bad manners and drinking is even more frowned upon. But here it’s not just about the drinks; it’s about camaraderie and a laid-back social atmosphere which ties individuals together.
6. It’s Tea Time!
China has a rich tea culture, but the British take on tea time was still a delightful surprise. While we Chinese like to slowly brew a cup of plain tea with fresh tea leaves, British tea is usually tea bagged with milk and sugar. Also, afternoon tea, complete with scones, finger sandwiches, and a variety of teas, is a cherished tradition.
Image (and in header): English tea VS China tea (Brighton.ac.uk)
7. Different Perceptions of Efficiency and Time
Given China’s large population, opportunities for both study and work are often very competitive. Thus, many people are always in a hurry throughout the day, doing as much and efficiently as they can, in order to outperform others, so am I. After I arrived in the UK, however, my understanding of time and efficiency was renewed by the locals. I realised that I was putting a lot of pressure on myself to be in a rush all the time and wasn’t enjoying it! I began to allow myself to spend a whole afternoon simply sitting in a park, enjoying the sunshine and nature, developing hobbies that I previously found too time-consuming, and appreciating the present moment.
8. The Mancunian Spirit
Manchester is renowned for its resilience and community spirit. The warmth and friendliness of the Mancunians have made me feel unexpectedly connected and settled. The city’s rich history, cultural diversity, and the indomitable spirit of its people have created a unique atmosphere that I am grateful to be a part of.
Being a Chinese student in Manchester has been an enlightening journey filled with cultural shocks that have broadened my perspective and greatly enriched my life. Navigating the city’s unique blend of tradition and modernity has allowed me to appreciate the beauty of diversity and find common ground in the shared experiences of humanity. As I continue to explore Manchester’s vibrant streets, I look forward to embracing more cultural nuances and forging connections that transcend borders.