What's considered rude that travelers do in London?

Standing on the left side of the escalator on the Tube is the fastest way to mark yourself as a tourist and genuinely irritate commuters during rush hour — keep left clear for people walking up or down, and stand on the right. Talking loudly on public transport reads as inconsiderate; Londoners tend toward quiet on the Tube and buses. Jumping a queue is treated with barely concealed contempt: the British queue reflex is real, and people notice. Tipping culture is subtler than in North America — 10 to 12.5 percent in restaurants is standard, but tipping at a pub bar is unusual and slightly awkward. Asking someone to smile is not received well. Engaging strangers in unprompted personal conversation on the Tube makes people uncomfortable; a nod is a relationship. And photographing someone without permission, particularly street vendors or market workers at Borough or Portobello Road, tends to land badly. The city is tolerant and international, but reserve is a baseline social contract worth respecting.

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• How do I get from the airport to the city in London?