Summer is here and hopefully that means vacation. But before you jet off to another corner of the world, do you know what not to do to avoid offending people from other cultures?
The worst thing a tourist can be is offensive, and there are a ton of things that American’s perceive as normal behavior that make people from other countries mad. Here’s a list of the things you might not want to do after you land in another country.
Norway
Don’t unwrap flowers before giving them as a gift.
Japan
Don’t tip anyone. If you leave even small change, people will come running after you to return it. Tipping is not a part of the culture.
Russia
Don’t give an even number of flowers as a gift (even numbers are for the deceased).
Singapore
Don’t bring your pet in public, or you will be fined. Also, avoid feeding the birds, spitting, urinating in public, smoking in public, eating or drinking on public transportation, and littering.
Croatia
Don’t raise your thumb, middle and index finger all at once–it’s the Serbian salute.
Kenya
Don’t call someone by their first name. Address them as Miss, Mrs., Mr., or Dr. And if you aren’t sure, choose madam or sir.
New Zealand
Don’t make a big deal about people who are shoeless in public. It’s perfectly commonplace.
Turkey
Don’t make an okay sign (with your thumb and forefinger), which is considered offensive.
India
Don’t kiss in public. You could be arrested for “public obscenity.”
Chile
Don’t eat with your hands–even finger foods like fries.
Germany
Don’t wish someone a “happy birthday” before the actual day. There is a superstition attached to doing so, and even Germans who are not superstitious will feel uncomfortable.
Ireland
If someone offers to buy the first round at the pub, don’t partake if you won’t be buying one later. Being cheap isn’t cool.
Malaysia
Don’t point. If you must, use your thumbs instead of your pointer finger.
Brazil
Don’t confuse the languages. Brazilians speak Portuguese, not Spanish.
Thailand
Don’t dress inappropriately when attending a religious service or visiting a temple. Cover your arms, legs, and midriff.
Canada
Don’t assume everywhere in Canada is cold and covered in snow. Toronto in summer is the same as New York in summer.
Italy
Don’t turn down food. Italians love to share food, and if the hostess offers you something, not taking it is considered rude.
Indonesia
Don’t do anything with your left hand. It is considered impolite.
The Netherlands
Don’t walk in the bicycle lane. Apparently, this is one of the most annoying things tourists do in their country.
China
Don’t give umbrellas or clocks as gifts. Chinese culture appreciates homophones, and the Chinese word for umbrella sounds a lot like “separation,” while the word for “clock” sounds like “paying last respects.”
[Featured Image Credit: www.puretravel.com]
