The English, like other nations, have a certain reputation. It is formed, among other things, from their ancient traditions and customs. There are many peoples and cultures in the world, but you will definitely not confuse the English with anyone! Although they are considered to be cold-blooded, reserved and prim, in fact, they are friendly, accommodating and very fond of sports. An interesting combination, isn't it? So let's learn more about the customs, traditions and way of life in England, because learning English, it is important to understand how this people lives and what they breathe. The English are naturally polite and never get tired of saying “Please” and “Thank you". They are disciplined and will not talk loudly on the street. They don't jostle to get a seat on the bus or train rather and get in line at the bus stop. The British don't shake hands when they meet. They try not to show emotions in public, even in tragic circumstances. They do not lose their composure and remain optimistic in difficult situations. The English are a nation of stay—at-home people. They say: "My house is my fortress" and do not like neighbors to interfere in their lives. The British prefer small houses designed for one family. The fireplace is the heart of the English house. While residents of other countries go to cafes or cocktail bars in the evenings, the British prefer to gather in the living room and sit by the fire, discussing the events of the past day. In many houses you can still find fireplaces today, sometimes with columns on the sides and an upper shelf where there are clocks, mirrors or family photos. The British love gardening and love to talk about it. They can discuss methods of growing cucumbers or talk about their unique flower garden, so unlike the others. Sometimes the British grow plants in a box outside the kitchen window or in the garden at home. They are very fond of flowers. Also, the British are very fond of animals. The entire population accounts for about five million dogs, about the same number of cats, three million parrots, other birds and aquarium fish — as well as a million exotic animals, for example, reptiles. There are special shops in the UK that sell food, clothing and other items for dogs. There are dog hairdressers, gyms and cemeteries. In Britain, Christmas cards and birthday greetings are sent on behalf of animals. Owners can buy expensive collars, wool coats, lace dresses, pajamas and so on for animals. There are special hotels for pets at airports. The British believe that they are the only nation that cares so much aThe afternoon meal is called lunch. On weekdays, meat stew, fried fish, chops, liver, sausages, vegetables can be served. The British rarely eat rice and pasta. For dessert, apple pie or hot milk pudding is served. Sunday lunch is a special event. Beef or lamb tenderloin with vegetables is served on it, and then a large pudding with custard. From 4 to 6 pm — tea time, which is called “5 o'clock". At this time, they drink tea with cakes or small sandwiches. In a sense, it's a whole ritual. For the sake of tea, all other things are postponed. Dinner (usually after 6 pm) is much like lunch, and in many families it is the last meal of the day. Sometimes it can be followed by a “supper” — usually cocoa with a light snack of bread and cheese. The British have a popular special dish known as “fish and chips" — fish with fried potatoes. It is best to buy it from a tray at the stadium and eat it right during a football match.