Olympic etiquette

Do Your Country Proud

Around £52 billion is spent in the U.K. by foreign visitors each year and, with the Olympics being hosted in London this summer, it's more important than ever that we show respect and represent our country well, as the eyes of the world will be on us.

Olympic rings

Cultural sensitivity

VisitBritain, our national tourist agency, has released an etiquette guide ahead of this summer's games to be distributed to everyone from hoteliers to taxi drivers. Designed to promote cultural sensitivity and politeness, it advises on everything from not thanking a Chinese person who compliments you (because it's considered rude) to avoiding physical contact with Indians whom you meet for the first time.

Don't overdo the alcohol

Certain events, such as football, are watched closely by security because they excite deep passion and our loyal, but often rowdy, British fans can get overexcited. This, coupled with high levels of alcohol, is a bad combination. Security at the games will be on a par with that at airports, with no liquids over 100 millilitres being allowed inside Olympic venues. Alcohol can be purchased at most of them but please remember to drink in moderation.

Remember to tip

Though lots of places now include a service charge in the final bill, do check to see whether or not a tip has been included. The British don't like to talk about money and would never hint for a tip so, if it's not included, do bear it in mind and leave it discreetly. Taxi drivers never add tips to their total and it's customary to add extra for them when paying.

Don't heckle

Of course, we're all going to be cheering on Team GB but heckling the competition is an absolute no-no. Not only is it off-putting for other competitors, it's extremely rude.

Be gracious

It might sound old-fashioned and terribly English, but we should be gracious when our competitors lose and humble when they win. Cheer on other nations, enjoy the events, and smile no matter what the outcome. Yes, this is a competition but it's also supposed to be fun. We are the face of Britain and our behaviour as fans will send a message to the world about who we are as people.