Cultural Faux Pas: What Not to Do in 10 Popular Countries
When travelling abroad, it’s important to be aware of cultural etiquette and norms in the countries you visit. Some gestures or phrases that seem innocuous in your home country could be offensive or rude elsewhere. Here are some common cultural faux pas to avoid in popular tourist destinations.
In China, avoid sticking your chopsticks upright in your rice bowl. This resembles the incense sticks used during funeral rituals and is considered bad luck. Do not give a clock as a gift, as the word for “clock” in Chinese sounds like the word for “the end.” White flowers are also associated with death and are inappropriate for most gift-giving occasions.
In India, do not use your left hand when eating, handling food, or shaking hands, as the left hand is traditionally used for hygiene purposes. Avoid public displays of affection, as these are frowned upon. Dress modestly, especially for women, and consider covering your head when visiting religious sites.
In Japan, avoid physical contact like hugging or back-slapping when greeting someone. Do not blow your nose in public, as this is considered rude. Avoid puncturing your chopsticks into your rice, and do not pass food from chopstick to chopstick, as this resembles a funeral ritual. Never leave your chopsticks sticking up in the rice bowl.
In Thailand, do not touch someone’s head, as the head is considered the most sacred part of the body. Do not point your feet at anyone, as feet are considered dirty. Dress modestly, especially in religious sites, and do not sunbathe topless. Avoid public displays of affection.
In Egypt, do not eat or pass food with your left hand, as the left hand is used for hygiene. Dress conservatively, especially for women, with no exposed shoulders or knees. Public displays of affection are frowned upon. Do not point the soles of your feet at anyone, as feet are considered unclean.
In Russia, avoid smiling at strangers, as Russians tend to smile only at close friends and family. Do not give yellow flowers, as they symbolize jealousy. Do not whistle indoors, as this is thought to bring financial loss. Avoid public displays of affection. Dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites.
In Brazil, avoid “OK” hand gestures, as this is considered an obscene gesture. Do not snap your fingers at waitstaff to get their attention. Avoid walking around in beachwear away from the beach. Do not touch someone without their consent.
In Mexico, avoid whistling at night, as some believe it attracts spirits. Do not touch or point at someone with your index finger, use your whole hand instead. Avoid confrontation and direct rejection. Dress modestly, especially in places of worship. Public displays of affection should be kept to a minimum.
In Italy, do not order cappuccino after meals, as cappuccino is considered a breakfast drink. Never cut spaghetti with a knife, use your fork instead. Avoid eating pizza with a knife and fork in casual settings. Do not touch priceless works of art or climb on historic landmarks. Dress stylishly and avoid shorts or sneakers when going out.
In France, avoid “please” and “thank you” when interacting with waitstaff – a simple “bonjour” when entering and “au revoir” when leaving is sufficient. Do not ask for ketchup or ranch dressing for your fries. Avoid eating on the metro or in public. Never call champagne “champers” – refer to it as champagne. Dress stylishly, especially in Paris.