Microsoft has issued a 44-page guide for its American employees who are moving to the UK to work at its European research HQ in Cambridge.
Called “A guide to working and living in Cambridge” it explains common British terms which may not be so common in the US such as “chippe” and “pub.”
It reminds staff that firearms are not allowed into the UK (the only people who are generally armed in the UK are our criminals, even the police are not routinely armed), explains when we generally like to eat breakfast and has more tips on our eating and shopping habits.
For example the guide says:
“chippie” – “fast food stores serving a treat of fish fried in a crispy batter”
“pub” – ““more than plain bars…homely places full of historical character (and characters!)”.
There are also tips on car parking, using the Post Office and going to A&E (ER)
A glossary of English terms reveals that we often say “flat” to mean “apartment” and explains that our public schools are really private schools.
To be honest I am British and I have never understood why we refer to private schools as public schools.
The guide was available to all on Microsoft’s website but today it appears to have been taken down. This is a pity because all the excerpts I have seen are very informative. Well done Microsoft.
Via: Daily Mirror
Picture: © Microsoft.