What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Edinburgh?

We asked people in Edinburgh if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...

"When visiting Edinburgh, it's important to avoid referring to the Scottish as English or comparing them to the English, as this can be seen as offensive. It's also considered disrespectful to mimic the Scottish accent or use stereotypical phrases. Avoid making jokes about traditional Scottish items such as kilts or haggis, as these are important aspects of Scottish culture. When it comes to tipping, it's customary to leave around 10-15% of the bill in restaurants, but it's not required in pubs or bars. If you're invited to someone's home, it's polite to bring a small gift for the host, such as a bottle of wine or flowers. Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as religion and politics, particularly the issue of Scottish independence, unless the other person brings it up first. Finally, remember that the Scots value their personal space, so avoid standing too close to someone or making excessive physical contact," commented one expat who made the move to Edinburgh, Scotland.

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