Some British and American people like to invite friends for a meal at home. You should not be upset if your English friends don't1 you home. It doesn't mean they don't like you.
Dinner parties usually start between 7 and 8 p.m. and end at about 11. Ask your hosts what time you2 arrive. It's polite to bring flowers, chocolates or a bottle of wine3a gift.
Usually the evening 4with drinks and snacks. 5 you want to be extra polite, say how much you like the room, or the pictures on the wall. But remember—it's6to ask how much things cost.
In many families, the husband sits at one end of the table and the wife sits at7end. They eat with their guests.
You'll8start the meal with soup or something small, then you'll have meat or fish with vegetables, and then dessert,9by coffee. It's polite to finish everything on your plate and to take more if you want.
Did you enjoy the10? Call your hosts the next day, or write them a short “thank you” letter. British and American people like to say “thank you, thank, thank you” all the time!
