Motoring Discussion > Debrett's and Vauxhall's Guide to Manners. Miscellaneous
Thread Author: FotheringtonTomas Replies: 0

 Debrett's and Vauxhall's Guide to Manners. - FotheringtonTomas
Extract from elsewhere (it's available tomorrow, & is 47 pages long!):

On chivalry:
A chivalrous man will ensure that his female passenger is comfortable before the journey begins. He should offer to take her coat, check that her seat is adjusted and be sure that the temperature is to her liking.

She will expect her man to be a calm and competent driver. Any signs of aggression and she will most likely assume that in life - as well as behind the wheel - he is volatile and impatient.

A chivalrous passenger is as well-behaved and polite in the car as he is when he's out and about. He realises that jokes about women drivers are clichéd and is never a backseat driver. He's happy to sit back and enjoy the ride.

On in-car entertainment:
Music should be carefully chosen and kept at a sociable volume. Save contentious remarks and heated discussions for non-mobile situations. Unless you're a karaoke-pro or trying to entertain the children, avoid singing along. Equally, save whistling for solo drives.

On being the perfect host:
Sometimes your passengers will want to doze or daydream. Always respect their wishes - if they want to stay in their own world for the duration of the journey, let them.

On being the perfect guest:
The driver is in control of the car and that extends to the controls of the stereo, temperature etc. Don't adjust anything without asking first. As a passenger, you don't have to concentrate on the road. Engage in conversation, but be quiet during tricky manoeuvres and challenging situations.

On fragrance fundamentals:
A car is a confined space, so think twice before spraying too much aftershave or perfume as you may overwhelm your fellow passengers.

On being ladylike:
Smooth down your skirt. Keeping your knees together, swivel your body and swing your legs outwards. Place one foot down, keeping your knees together. Dip your head and shoulders forward and slide and glide out of the car.

For hat-wearers:
It's good manners to remove your hat in the car, just as you would when entering a building.


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