“Culture is king”, as the saying goes, and if you don’t know the culture, you can’t understand the people. That’s why it’s important to be familiar with traditions and cultures when expanding your business into new international markets.

This is particularly true when you’ve set your business aim on the UK. Looking before you leap is important, and knowing something about the strange, and sometimes eccentric customs of the island people can be useful.

Visitors who stray away from the big cities to explore small-town life and local pubs may encounter a rather peculiar custom: groups of middle-aged men clad in white with bells on their knees, holding pieces of wood. Don’t be alarmed when they begin their strange dance, they’re just Morris Dancers.

This odd musical tradition began in the 15th century and takes its name from the Moors. Over time Moorish dancing became Morris dancing and this can be seen in the tradition with some of the dancers blackening their faces.

The style of dancing you may see depends on the part of country you visit. More popular in the south is the Cotswold Morris where the dancing involves banging sticks and waving handkerchiefs. Visitors to the north may witness the more sinister looking Longsword Dancing, particularly popular across Yorkshire and the south of Durham.

So if you’re in the UK on holiday this summer and you suddenly hear the curious clonk of wood on wood, don’t be alarmed, don’t drop your beer, it’s just the English being eccentric. Simply order another pint and enjoy the show.

maka language consulting
www.makaitalia.com