As a Chinese student in England, I am making great efforts to decipher the British culture, albeit sometimes unconsciously. I am eager to figure out what is “Englishness” or “Britishness”, what unique cultural identity distinguishes UK from other European countries. I also want to know more about the Britons’ social customs, cultural traditions, value systems and worldviews.

One aspect that Britons impressed me strikingly is their attitudes to family, friends, and relationship.

According to a research report published in Sing Tao Daily (European Version) on January 8 this year, stay with their families and friends is the greatest pleasure for most Britons. A previous research reveals that, compared with other Europeans, Britons are less willing to work abroad because they are afraid they will miss their families and friends. These two conclusions are reciprocally justified.

This value could, in most measure, account for the prosperous postcard market in Coventry. When I first arrived here, I was surprised that some shops are particularly dealing with cards. Even in some big supermarkets, cards are a vitally necessary item on sale. Investigating into the card market spells out the fragmentation of the market, which gears to different needs. The flourishing market reflects the steady demand. The demand mirrors more: The Britons cherish family, love and friendship, cards are a traditional but important vehicle to convey their feelings.

A second evidence is the fact that on some special occasions, the local people prefer to express their congratulations and memorials via mass media. Not occasionally, I am touched by the sentimental lines.

Some other traditions are also conspicuous. Just to name a few, the pub is considered a gem of British culture, so many clubs are operating in Coventry, partying is a fantastic social programme, especially for the young generation, where they feel free to express themselves, both verbally and nonverbally.

Also, a recent national research found out that for most Britons, love is the most important in their life, especially for Londoners, 27% of whom are actually living on love. The report also claims that 30% of the Britons hold the belief that relationship is among the greatest fun in life. Similarly, another poll conducted last November at Warwick University signals that relationship is highly valued by Warwick students.

Meanwhile, I have also noticed the freedom the Britons are enjoying. In my eyes, the freedom to express, to assemble, to debate, to demonstrate is a crucial index of social vibrancy, ensuring a bright future for both the people and the country.

The card market, kith and kin, pubs and parties, congratulations and memorials, debates and demonstrations, all the information I obtained so far convince me that the Britons are not reserved at all; they are just living in their own ways.