7 cultural faux pas around the world to avoid
by Nicholas Yong
You know that old saying about what to do when you’re in Rome?
The four tourists who stripped on a sacred mountain in Sabah - despite pleas from guides not to do so - found that out the hard way recently.
Here are seven faux pas across different cultures you should definitely avoid.
1. Russia: Drink vodka fast
When vodka is offered to you, down it all at one go. Be sure to toast the host when you do so, and have something to eat in between bites.
But this is just to prevent yourself from collapsing at the host’s feet in a drunken stupor.
2. Japan: Don’t tip
Tipping is simply not a part of service culture in Japan, whether in restaurants, cabs or with porters. In fact, attempting to tip someone would be considered mildly insulting.
3. South Korea: Let the eldest at the table eat first
In a country where Confucian culture is still highly influential, respect for your elders is paramount. So be sure to hold off on picking up those chopsticks until the most senior at the table has done so.
4. Brazil: It’s not okay
Giving the ‘okay’ sign in Brazil is roughly equivalent to giving someone the middle finger. So try and make sure your thumb and index finger never meet.
5. Fiji: Shake hands - then keep holding on
The typical handshake in Fiji may be more intense than you are used to. After the initial handshake, you may end up holding the other party’s hand for the entire conversation.
6. Middle East: Don’t give the thumbs up
In most cultures, the thumbs up means “Everything’s great!” In the Middle East, it’s associated with, well, anal sex.
7. Germany: Don’t give carnations
In Germany, Poland and Sweden, carnations are typically used at funerals. It would be the equivalent of giving someone chrysanthemum flowers back home.
Source: Huffington Post, First We Feast, List 25, Matador Network, Cracked, The Guardian
