Culture - Navigating Local Etiquette
When traveling or interacting with people from different cultures, understanding the dos and don’ts can make a significant difference in how you're received. Asian, African. Australian and European cultures, though rich and diverse, have distinct etiquette norms that can sometimes lead to amusing cross-cultural misunderstandings. Let's explore some key cultural dos and don’ts it’s good to remember.
Africa: Respect Cultural Diversity
Do
Respect Elders: Across much of Africa, elders hold a respected position in society. Always greet the eldest person first in social settings and use polite language. In some cultures, it’s customary to bow slightly when shaking hands with elders.
Dress Modestly: In many African countries, especially in rural areas, conservative dress is appreciated. Avoid wearing revealing clothing, particularly in predominantly Muslim regions like parts of North and West Africa.
Offer a Warm Greeting: In many African cultures, greetings are highly valued and can be lengthy. It’s important to take the time to ask about a person’s well-being, family, and even work. A rushed greeting can be seen as impolite or dismissive, so show genuine interest and patience in these interactions.
Don’t
Use Your Left Hand: In several African cultures, the left hand is considered unclean and should not be used for greeting, eating, or giving and receiving items. Always use your right hand or both hands when interacting with people.
Assume All Cultures Are the Same: Africa is incredibly diverse, with thousands of ethnic groups and languages. What is appropriate in one country or tribe may not be acceptable in another. For example, direct eye contact is respectful in some places but considered rude in others.
Take Photos Without Permission: In many parts of Africa, taking photos of people, especially in rural areas, can be seen as intrusive or disrespectful. Always ask for permission before taking someone’s picture, as some communities are sensitive to photography, and it’s a matter of cultural respect.
Asia: The Art of Subtlety and Respect
Do:
Respect Hierarchies: In many Asian countries, respect for elders and authority figures is paramount. In Japan, for example, bowing is more than just a greeting—it's a display of respect. The deeper the bow, the greater the respect. So, when in Tokyo, don’t be surprised if you find yourself bowing so low you might just kiss the floor.
Mind Your Feet: Feet are considered the lowest part of the body in many Asian cultures. In Thailand, for instance, it’s a no-no to point your feet at people or religious icons. If you’re caught doing this, you might get an indignant look—like when you accidentally spill soy sauce on your friend's new white shirt.
Handle Food with Care: In China, it’s considered impolite to start eating before the oldest person at the table has begun. This can be tricky if you're extremely hungry and facing a table full of delicious dumplings. Imagine staring at a plate of dim sum while everyone’s politely waiting for Grandpa to dig in—talk about a test of willpower!
Don’t:
Don’t Discuss Sensitive Topics: In many Asian cultures, sensitive topics like politics or personal finances are avoided. You wouldn’t want to bring up your latest stock market losses at a dinner party in India; it’s like opening a can of worms in a room full of people who are trying to enjoy their butter chicken.
Avoid Excessive Public Affection: In countries like Japan and India, public displays of affection are frowned upon. Holding hands is okay, but public kissing might get you some curious stares. So, if you’re in Tokyo, keep those romantic gestures confined to a private karaoke room.
Don’t Point: Pointing at people is considered rude in many Asian cultures. Instead, use your whole hand to gesture. If you’re in a busy market in Hanoi, flailing your arm around to point at that amazing piece of street food might earn you a few puzzled looks—better to give a friendly wave or gesture.
Europe: A Study in Formality and Freedom
Do
Embrace Formal Greetings: In many European countries, formal greetings are the norm. In France, a cheek kiss is common—though it’s not a full-blown smooch, more of an air kiss. Miscalculate and you might end up in a lip-lock with someone you barely know. Just remember: two kisses, not a full-on embrace!
Mind the Meal Times: Europeans take meal times seriously. In Spain, lunch isn’t just a meal; it’s a social event. Expect to eat around 2 PM and linger until 4. If you’re in a hurry, you might want to reconsider that tapas bar—unless you enjoy becoming the butt of jokes about the “hungry tourist.”
Tipping Etiquette: Tipping customs vary across Europe. In Germany, rounding up the bill is sufficient, while in Italy, a small tip is appreciated but not expected. Don’t overthink it—unless you’re in Paris, where leaving a tip can be a delicate dance. Too little, and you might get a stern look; too much, and you might be mistaken for trying to impress!
Don’t
Don’t Be Too Loud: Europeans generally value a quieter demeanor in public spaces. In countries like Italy, a loud and boisterous demeanor could be seen as a sign of poor manners. Picture yourself at a café in Rome, chatting loudly about your latest travel adventures, only to realize you’ve attracted the disapproving gaze of everyone around. Oops!
Avoid Overeager Personal Space Invasions: In the UK and many parts of Europe, personal space is sacrosanct. Standing too close to someone in line might lead to awkward shuffling or a polite but pointed glance. In London, it’s almost like a sport to maintain a respectable distance without bumping into anyone.
Don’t Be Late: Punctuality is highly valued in Europe. In Germany, arriving late to an appointment can be seen as disrespectful. Imagine showing up late to a meeting in Berlin, only to be greeted with a look that says, “Welcome to the Land of Efficiency. Please try not to make it a habit.”
Australia: Informal… to a point
Do:
Embrace Informality: Australians are known for their laid-back and friendly demeanor. It’s common to address people by their first names, even in professional settings. Polite and casual conversation is valued. Casual clothing is generally acceptable.
Respect Indigenous Culture: Australia’s Indigenous people have a rich history, and it’s important to be respectful when visiting sacred sites or engaging with Indigenous art and traditions. Always seek permission when visiting cultural sites and avoid taking photos without consent. Never refer to Aboriginal people as ‘aboriginies’ or “abbo’s’, as these two words are insulting terminology associated with racist history and behaviors.
Participate in ‘Shouting’ at the Pub In Australian culture, particularly at pubs or social gatherings, there’s a tradition known as "shouting," where people take turns buying rounds of drinks for the group. If someone buys you a drink, it’s expected that you’ll eventually return the favor by "shouting" a round when it’s your turn. Not participating in this social custom can be seen as impolite or stingy. It’s an important part of the laid-back, communal atmosphere Australians value in social settings.
Don’t:
Overdo Personal Space: Australians generally appreciate personal space. Avoid standing too close when speaking to someone, and be mindful of body language during conversations. Never stare, as it may be interpreted as you’re looking for (and will likely get into) a fight.
Don’t: Be Tardy: Punctuality is important in Australia. Whether for social or business meetings, being on time shows respect for other people’s schedules. If you’re running late, ALWAYS call ahead to let people know.
Show Up to a BBQ Empty-Handed: In Australian culture, BBQs are a popular social event, and it’s customary to bring something along, often referred to as “taking a plate.” Whether it’s a side dish, salad, or some drinks, contributing to the spread is a way of showing appreciation and joining in the laid-back communal spirit. Arriving empty-handed can be seen as bad manners, so always ask your host what you can bring to share with everyone!
Conclusion
Navigating cultural norms requires a blend of awareness and adaptability. Understanding these dos and don’ts can help avoid comical misunderstandings and ensure smoother interactions. So, whether you’re bowing deeply in Japan, embracing formal greetings in France, or trying to avoid accidentally kissing someone in a Spanish tapas bar, a little cultural awareness goes a long way.
Conversations with the Cultured
Natalie:
Italy: It’s offensive to refuse offerings of food, drink even if it is grappa 10am in the morning!
The word ’no’ doesn’t exist when it comes to hospitality
And please: Pizza is not eaten with a knife and fork!
Mary:
In Canada personal space is a big thing. Meeting someone a hand extended hand shake or a hand wave is normal and personal space is about that far away. Hugs are sometimes exchanged between closer friends, more often between women. If I can feel your breath in my face you are too close.
Helen:
When in India: If your not at the beach, I recommend to cover yourself. You can be modestly dressed with gorgeous light loose fitting tops, pants and dresses. Singlet tops with exposed cleavage and short dresses is really not acceptable.
I’ve heard some women say I should be able to wear what I feel comfortable in. However you won’t feel comfortable with men undressing you with their eyes.
Culturally aware is of utmost importance. I was in Gili isles recently as well and women were walking thru the local villages with their bikinis. The island is mainly Muslim with signs asking they cover themselves in the village!
Belinda:
Malaysia: do not be offended if people call you aunty or grandma or older sister - it's a sign of respect. Be prepared to be fed a lot. Splitting food bills is considered to be a very cold gesture, we have intense competitions fighting over the bill! Do not engage in physical contact with the opposite gender especially the Malays who are Muslim, not even shaking hands. People in the rural area are very warm and welcoming. People in the city are less so, but still as helpful when approached.
