Food, shopping and everyday culture

Daily life abroad runs on different rhythms: when shops open, how people queue, how much to tip and what is in the supermarket. Learning these early saves embarrassment and money.

Opening hours are not like the GCC

• Many places close earlier than you may expect. Lancaster University's student guide notes that most shops and businesses close around 5pm, apart from some supermarkets and cafes.
• In England and Wales, GOV.UK says large shops (over 280 square metres) can open on Sundays for only 6 consecutive hours between 10am and 6pm, and must close on Easter Sunday and Christmas Day. There are no such restrictions in Scotland.
• In many countries, public holidays and religious festivals close shops and transport. Check before a holiday and stock up the day before.
• Plan your weekly shop for a weekday evening or Saturday rather than late Sunday.

Supermarkets and food

• Learn the supermarket ladder in your city: which shops are cheapest, which have halal sections and which are open late. The Groceries module lesson 'Finding halal food abroad' explains how to check certification.
• Ready meals and own-brand products can be useful on busy days. Lancaster's guide mentions supermarket ready meals as quick and affordable.
• Read labels carefully: ingredients such as gelatine, alcohol in sauces or animal fats are common in some countries.
• Bring a few comfort foods or spices from home for the first weeks, if your destination's customs rules allow it.

Queues, politeness and everyday manners

• In the UK, people queue at bus stops, shops and cafes, and jumping the queue is considered very rude (Lancaster University).
• Lancaster's guide also notes that 'please', 'thank you' and 'sorry' are used very often, and people hold doors open for others.
• Greetings may be more casual than at home. 'You alright?' in the UK is a friendly hello, not a question about your health, according to Lancaster's guide.
• Watch what local people do in a new setting before you act, and copy politely.

Tipping and paying

• Tipping customs vary widely. In the US, the Emily Post Institute suggests 15 to 20 percent before tax for sit-down restaurant service.
• In other countries, service may already be included in the bill or tipping may be less expected. Check the bill and ask a local friend.
• Card and phone payments are common in many countries, but carry a little cash for small shops or emergencies.
• Track spending in your first month: small daily costs such as coffee and delivery add up quickly.