Good manners are somewhat universal, but specific customs and rules rarely are. A gesture that signals friendliness in one country can become an insult across the border. A well-meant tip or bouquet might be a major faux pas. Etiquette is formed from history, religion, superstition, and even climate. It’s complicated. That’s why it’s so easy to get it wrong unintentionally. Before your next dinner party, trip, or international meeting, here are eight etiquette facts worth remembering.
8 Etiquette Facts
1. Let the other person initiate a cheek kiss in Europe. (Source)
The double cheek kiss is a signature European greeting, but most people don’t initiate it. A survey found that in 27 countries, most people would only do this if the other person made the first move. In Denmark, Estonia, Sweden, and Slovenia, this isn’t customary, and respondents said they wouldn’t use this greeting.
2. Don’t leave a tip in Japan. (Source)
Leaving cash at the table can backfire in Japan. Tipping there tends to cause confusion, is likely to be refused by the server, and, at worst, can be taken as an insult to the restaurant because excellent service is expected at every establishment.
3. Don’t use your thumbs. (Source)
While a thumbs up signals agreement or positive encouragement in many Western countries, in many places around the world it’s considered a very rude gesture. In Afghanistan, Iran, and parts of Africa, you’d cause a lot of offense if you stick your thumb at someone.
4. Don’t stick your chopsticks upright in rice. (Source)
In China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam, sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice symbolizes a funeral rite because it resembles incense sticks placed upright to honor the dead. In Japan, the taboo of sticking chopsticks in this position has a name, “tatebashi,” which means standing chopsticks.
5. Don’t put your hands on anyone’s head in Thailand. (Source)
In Thai culture, the head is the body’s most sacred part, so touching someone else’s head, even a child’s, is considered very offensive. Additionally, feet shouldn’t be pointed at people or at images of Buddha.
6. Count the number of flowers you give in Russia. (Source)
In Russia, giving a living person an even number of flowers symbolizes death, so that’s only reserved for funerals. You’ll need to give bouquets with an odd number of flowers for a celebration.
7. Be careful with peace signs. (Source)
If your peace sign faces outward in the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, you’re making an obscene gesture equivalent to the American middle finger. Best to avoid using it if you’re unsure which way it should face!
8. Don’t open gifts in front of the giver in China. (Source)
Gift-giving is popular in Chinese culture. However, opening gifts in front of the giver is considered quite rude. Bring it home and open it privately instead.
Featured image photo credit: RDNE Stock project
