|
|
|
15 Foreign Customs that Make Most North Americans Blush
by www.SixWise.com It really is a small world, and with increasing numbers of
Americans traveling overseas for business and pleasure, this
has never been more apparent.
|
Traveling abroad for business? Make sure you're clued
in to proper local business etiquette and social customs,
as one social blunder could blow the deal.
|
Whilst traveling
abroad, you may marvel at the similarities you'll see
-- underneath the accents and the ethnic cuisine, we're all
simply going about our business a day at a time. Yet, there
are many differences that may not be immediately obvious,
but that you should be aware of to avoid embarrassment --
theirs and yours.
In fact, before you travel anywhere outside of the United
States, it's a good idea to grab a current guidebook -- and
read it. Honing up on a few simple customs and social mores
will ensure that your visit is pleasant and not offensive
to anyone.
-
In Latin America, men commonly touch each other's arms
and shoulders, and rub each other's backs.
-
In France, it's customary to give a soft, quick handshake.
-
In Cuba, Portugal, Spain, Italy, Eastern Europe, and
the Middle East, men commonly exchange kisses on the cheek.
-
In the Middle East, eye contact is very intense and
prolonged, and the person may move closer to you to see
your eyes close-up.
-
In Mexico, winks, whistles and compliments between men
and women are considered friendly introductions, and may
be initiated by either gender. Male friends also hug regularly.
-
In Egypt, it's customary to stand very close (within
inches) when speaking. Men may also touch and hold each
other's thighs.
|
When you're in a foreign country, it's generally appreciated
if you attempt to speak the local language.
|
-
Men in some Middle Eastern countries hold hands.
-
In Russia, drinking vodka is a big part of social life,
and not drinking is considered offensive.
-
In Germany, talking about sports is considered uneducated.
-
In Buenos Aires, high heels and short skirts are considered
normal business attire for women.
-
In Johannesburg, terms such as "Blacks", "Indians",
"Coloreds" and "Whites" are commonly
used -- and not considered offensive.
-
In London, drunken behavior on Friday evenings is normal
among business acquaintances, and is expected to be laughed
off come Monday.
-
In Mexico City, most men will have a hard time accepting
a women paying for her own meal, even if she is just a
casual friend or client.
-
In Milan, business associates are expected to always
maintain bella figura, which means "showing your
best face." Part of bella figura is never admitting
that you're wrong.
-
In Brazil, where plumbing may sometimes be poor, you
may be asked to through your toilet paper in a trash bin,
rather than the toilet bowl.
Recommended Reading
How
to Travel Abroad Safely: Six Important Tips You Need to Know
in an Emergency
The
10 Top Dining Etiquette Errors
Sources
Economist.com
Cities Guide
|