Regional identities in the United Kingdom
The UK comprises three separate but interdependent countries, namely England, Scotland and Wales, and the province of Northern Ireland.
While differences in everyday modes of social behaviour aren't great from one part of the UK to another, there are some aspects of culture that are quite symbolic of national or local difference. Factors such as support for the monarchy, political affiliation and the support of football teams are some of the most obvious expressions of contemporary localism. Religious adherence and ethic differentiation are also significant.
Although most expats move to the capital, London, it is important that new arrivals are not only aware of these geographical distinctions, but also the strong sense of identity and nationalism felt by the populations of each nation.
It's also important not to confuse the terms ‘English’ and ‘British’ as they mean very different things. ‘British’ can be applied to someone from any of the four nations, but calling someone ‘English' means the person comes from England. Those from Scotland are called ‘Scots’, those from Wales are the ‘Welsh’ and people from Northern Ireland can be referred to as ‘Irish’.
Although this may seem like an obvious point, calling someone from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland ‘English’ can cause offence as members of these nations have a strong sense of loyalty to their country and its distinct culture.