In the U.K., we have all sorts of unspoken rules of etiquette, such as saying please and thank you, shaking hands, or maintaining eye contact during conversations. But in other parts of the world, things are very different. So that you aren’t wrongly seen as rude, be sure to abide by these etiquette in these different countries around the world.
China: Accepting Gifts with Both Hands
When receiving gifts in China, it’s customary to both present and accept them with both hands. This gesture shows gratitude and appreciation. Additionally, it’s polite to refuse the gift a couple of times before accepting it, as immediate acceptance can be seen as impolite or greedy.
Saudi Arabia: Right Hand Etiquette
In many Middle Eastern countries, particularly Saudi Arabia, the right hand is used for eating, shaking hands, and passing items, while the left hand is considered unclean. Observing this rule is essential to show respect for local customs and avoid offending your hosts.
Italy: Dressing Up
Enormous value is placed on personal appearance and fashion in Italy; dressing well is seen as a sign of respect for others, not just oneself. So, when visiting Italy, it’s advisable to dress stylishly and appropriately for the occasion, even if it’s just for a casual outing.
Japan: The Importance of Bowing
In many Asian countries, especially Japan, bowing is a fundamental aspect of etiquette. It is used to greet, apologize, and show respect, with the depth and duration of the bow depending on the relationship and context. TripSavvy explains that deeper bows indicate greater respect, with a full 45-degree bow being the most respectful.
India: Respecting Elders
Most countries encourage the respecting of elders, but in India, this is taken to the next level. Respecting elders is deeply ingrained in the culture, with younger individuals being expected to touch the feet of their elders as a sign of respect and to seek their blessings. This act demonstrates respect and humility, emphasizing the importance of family and tradition in Indian society.
France: Greetings with a Kiss
If you ever visit France, don’t be surprised if someone greets you with a kiss on both cheeks, known as “la bise.” The number of kisses can vary by region, but it’s typically two. This practice is common among friends and family, not just romantic partners, and even among straight men.
Thailand: The Wai Gesture
In Thailand, the traditional greeting involves a gesture called the “wai,” where the hands are pressed together in a prayer-like position, and a slight bow is made. The height of the hands and the depth of the bow vary based on the social status of the person being greeted, but it’s generally not as extreme as in Japan.
Russia: Removing Shoes Indoors
Outside of America, many countries remove their shoes before going indoors, but in Russia, it’s particularly important. Guests are usually provided with slippers to wear indoors, a practice that helps keep the home clean and is a sign of respect for the host’s space and hospitality. When you think about it, every country should be doing this.
Mexico: Punctuality
When you visit Mexico, don’t be surprised if you seem to turn up early for every occasion, even when you’re on time. Being fashionably late is commonly acceptable in social settings, with most people arriving 15-30 minutes after the scheduled time. However, punctuality is more important in professional contexts, where being on time is expected and appreciated.
Germany: No Small Talk
Many tourists are amused by the blunt nature of conversation in Germany, where the locals value efficient communication and often avoid small talk. In professional settings, discussions are usually focused on the task at hand, which is seen as respectful of everyone’s time. These days, though, more young Germans are starting to embrace small talk.
Brazil: Hugging and Touching
If you’re not a fan of human contact, don’t visit Brazil; physical contact is a common part of social interactions, including hugs, pats on the back, and the touching of arms. Don’t mistake it for a form of romantic affection because everyone does it, reflecting the famous warmth and friendliness of Brazilian culture.
South Korea: Pouring Drinks
It’s considered to be slightly rude to pour yourself a drink in South Korea because, generally, people pour drinks for others. When someone pours a drink for you, it’s polite to hold your glass with both hands. So, if you ever make a visit to South Korea, remember your manners when you’re heading out to bars.
Egypt: Offering Tea
You will never drink as much tea as you will when visiting Egypt, where offering it to guests is a common gesture of hospitality. It’s polite to accept the offer, even if you don’t plan to drink it all. Refusing can even be seen as disrespectful, as sharing tea enables a sense of community and warmth between the host and guest.
Turkey: Using Honorifics
In most of America, we don’t tend to use titles outside of formal occasions, except in the South. However, in Turkey, addressing people with appropriate honorifics is crucial. Using “Bey” for men and “Hanım” for women after their first name shows respect, and in formal settings, using titles such as “Doctor” or “Professor” is very important, too.
Nigeria: Greeting Elders First
Much like in India, Nigeria holds immense respect for its elders, so it is customary to greet elders first in any social setting. This act demonstrates respect and acknowledges the seniority of older individuals. Failing to do so can be seen as impolite, so you should always be on the lookout for seniors because otherwise, you could land yourself in trouble.
Canada: Tipping Etiquette
Just like in the U.S., tipping is an essential part of the dining experience in Canada. A tip of 15-20% is standard in restaurants to show appreciation for good service, and failing to tip or tip inadequately is a direct insult. Americans often don’t realize this, so make sure you remember next time you’re up North.
Kenya: Handshake and Eye Contact
Similar to many Western countries, in Kenya, a handshake is a common greeting, often accompanied by direct eye contact. This combination conveys sincerity and respect, and prolonged handshakes are also typical, symbolizing trust and friendship. If you’re visiting, the last thing you should do is avoid eye contact, which can be very insulting to both yourself and others.
Greece: Breaking Plates
Anyone who has ever vacationed in Greece will be familiar with the sound of breaking plates during celebrations, a traditional practice that symbolizes joy and good fortune. While it is less common today, it still happens at some weddings and festive occasions. However, always remember that most of these are special plates made from plaster, so don’t go around smashing porcelain or fine china.