Some European drinking tips for pub day

Why can’t Europe “do” pubs? Continental bars are as far removed from the English pub in style, ambience and general cosiness as a dentist’s waiting room is from a cottage sitting room. Maybe those Europeans like all those harsh lights, hard seats and goldfish-bowl like windows, but why? Don’t they understand the soothing effect of velveteen seats, an open fire and junk all over the walls? They have some very odd drinking customs in Europe, too which you should really be aware of before you set out. Here are some tips of what not to do.

Don’t accept an offer of a Grappa in Italy unless you’re made of stern stuff. It’s made from the wine harvest leftovers (that’s right - pips, stems, skins and stuff) and it is also around 45 per cent proof.

Don’t expect a French pub to look like a pub. Most of them double as a tobacconist, barber’s shop, hardware store or butcher’s which means that booze is just a sideline. So you’ve come to the right place if you fancy a smoke and a shave with your Ricard.

Don’t panic when your Dutch barperson brandishes a knife. It is customary to use one to slice off the froth from your beer. If he happens to be a psychopath, that’s pure coincidence.

Don’t start drinking with a group of Germans until you have raised your glass and met everyone else’s eye. It is considered very unlucky to do so and some Germans claim it can lead to “seven years’ bad sex”.

Don’t refuse a refill in Russia as it is considered rude to stop drinking until your host is ready to do so. And since your vodka is supposed to be downed in one, inebriation is a bit of a given.