Lucas M
When traveling abroad, it’s essential to know that your innocent behaviors at home could unintentionally offend people of other cultures. From public nose-blowing to casual finger-pointing, these are 15 common faux pas that could earn you scorning looks, confrontations, or even legal trouble if you’re not culturally aware.
Thumbs Down on Thumbs-Up (Greece, Middle East)
The thumbs-up gesture we use to signal “okay” or “good job” is highly offensive in Greece, Iran, and parts of the Middle East and Mediterranean. It’s akin to showing someone your middle finger. For approval, stick to nodding or using your words instead.
Hold the Tip (Japan)
In Japan, leaving a tip after a meal or other service is considered rude and can suggest you look down upon the worker. The polite custom is not to tip, as good service is expected. Tipping suggests the server needs charity or is of a lower class.
Stamp Down Your Feet (Muslim Countries)
Exposing the soles of your feet or touching someone with them is one of the highest forms of disrespect in Muslim nations like Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. Feet are considered unclean, so keep them flat on the floor and don’t prop them up on furniture or cross them towards others.
Keep That Smile Subtle (Russia)
In Russian culture, smiling at strangers is seen as insincere and even mocking. It can imply you’re flirting or making fun of them. Unless you know the person well, maintain a serious facial expression. A nod or slight, subtle upturn of the lips is also acceptable.
Put Your Left Hand Away (Nigeria)
Using your left hand to greet people, eat, or exchange items, especially with elders, is offensive in several parts of Nigeria. That’s because your left hand is strictly reserved for unsanitary tasks. Doing otherwise could brand you as uncultured in this traditional society.
Silent Sniffles (Japan)
While it’s not uncommon for Westerners to blow their noses in public, the Japanese consider it highly impolite. This is especially true for women. Mask up and silently excuse yourself to a private area if you need to relieve a sniffle.
Don’t Touch the Head (Buddhist Countries)
Buddhist cultures, like Thailand and Myanmar, believe the head is the most sacred part of the human body. So, never touch someone’s head or pass objects over it, even with something like a hat or menu. It’s highly disrespectful.
Stick ‘Em Sideways (China)
Leaving chopsticks sticking straight up in your food in China looks disturbingly similar to incense sticks used in funeral rituals. It’s considered incredibly taboo and symbolic of death. Instead, rest your chopsticks across the plate or dish when not using them.
Point With an Open Palm (Many Asian/Caribbean Cultures)
Pointing at someone or something with your index finger is perceived as vulgar body language in most Asian nations, like China and Korea, as well as many Caribbean cultures. To remain amicable, use an open, flat palm to make such gestures instead.
Gifting Mishaps (China)
Never gift anything in sets of four in China, as the word for “four” sounds similar to the word for “death.” Also, avoid clocks, which symbolize the passing of life, and green hats, which sadly imply the receiver’s spouse is unfaithful.
Illegal to Throw the Finger (Germany)
It’s illegal to insult someone by making vulgar, obscene body gestures like extending your middle finger in Germany. Public rudeness like this can result in a hefty fine if someone takes offense and reports you.
Unbury Your Watch (Switzerland)
The Swiss take punctuality very seriously, so they only attend business meetings or appointments on time. In this nation, it’s considered unforgivably impolite and even insulting to waste someone’s time. So, set the alarm or keep your watch close if you ever have dealings with the Swiss.
Slip Out of Your Shoes (Many Asian Homes)
Most Asian households consider it extremely rude to walk around indoors with your shoes on. This tracks dirt and grime into the home. Upon entering, slip your shoes off at the entryway or carry hotel slippers to wear while inside.
No “OK” Here (Russia)
Holding up that classic “OK” hand gesture with your thumb and index finger curled inwards is vulgar in Russia — essentially the equivalent of flipping someone off. If that is not your intention, a simple nod will suffice.
Hands Off the PDA (Singapore, UAE)
In Singapore and the UAE, public displays of affection like kissing and caressing can land you in legal trouble. These are very modest societies where excessive PDA is considered offensive behavior that violates public decency laws. Simply holding hands and remaining decent is the way to go.
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