What comes to mind when you think about Britain?

• Fish and Chips
• The Queen
• Pints of Beer
• Very polite people
• Bad weather
• British humour
• Royal Palaces

But there is more....

When living in Britain it is important to know typical characteristics of the Britons. According to a study by Opinion Leader Research, undertaken in 2005, more Britons identify with being British than ever before. The percentage rose from 46% in 1999 to 65% in 2005 - a significant increase.

Britons consider themselves:

• tolerant, fair and responsible. Britons queue because it is polite and a sign of good manners.
• multicultural and open-minded about other beliefs and opinions.
• clever, creative and innovative - the key to their success.
• witty, quirky and individualistic.
• as having a unique sense of  humour.

In Britain:

• people have the right to say what they think.
• the creative industry is considerable and has many international, well-known, designers.
• cultural aspects, such as the Royal Family, its history and heritage, are important.
• people are extremely proud of their excellence in sport.

But there is a down side too:

• Britons have the reputation abroad of being hooligans
• They are considered to be binge drinkers
• Britons are noisy and loud
• British law and order does not appear to be as effective as it could and crime is high
• Racial tensions and xenophobia are evident

Like in any country typical characteristics and stereotypes exist. It is important not to take them too seriously as it is easy for a minority group to destroy the good reputation of the majority.