14 Things You Shouldn’t Do Abroad
Avoid common mistakes while traveling internationally with these essential tips and advice.
Image: iStock
The world we live in is diverse and beautiful and nothing can beat the experience, wisdom, and humility that comes with travelling. It is amazing to see how culturally different we humans across the world are. Although there might be several similarities in the way we live, eat, and go about our usual work, there are vast variances in our cultures. What is considered noble in one country may be an offence in the other, while what is normal in one can be bizarre in another. For example, in the UK, you drive on the left-hand side while in the US, you drive on the right.
While travelling is exciting and fun, it is good to read up about the dos and don’ts of the countries we are travelling to, so that we do not offend the residents of that country or break rules and get into unnecessary trouble.
That said, here is a list of things you absolutely must not do in these countries!
1. France
You can talk about anything under the sun including your sexual desires while in France. However, it is a huge no-no to talk about money in this country. People here fiercely guard their monetary savings and spending knowledge. So, when in France, do not go anywhere near the topic of money.
2. Ukraine
Gifting flowers is universally accepted – be it a birthday or an anniversary or a proposal or even a funeral – flowers are just right for all occasions! All we need is to know the significance of each flower before we pick a bouquet for someone. In this country, if you are picking up flowers to wish someone on a happy occasion, be sure to pick an odd number of flowers because even numbers are meant for a sad day.
3. New Zealand
A small island nation, New Zealand is a peaceful place and people here are very welcoming and agreeable. Honking here, however, is considered offensive. You may honk only if you want to draw the attention of another driver.
4. Japan
The Japanese are naturally cordial and respectful. If you are served well at a restaurant it is because that’s the norm. Leaving a tip is not expected. So, don’t be surprised if your tip is refused.
5. Mexico
Mexicans have a different sense of humor and love to have a good laugh. So, if someone cracks a local joke do not get offended, they do not mean to hurt you.
6. Norway
For Norwegians, religion is not central to their life. Though most of the population there are Christians, you will see more people going to a gym regularly than to church. It is almost rude to ask someone about attending a church service.
7. Turkey
We are so used to giving a thumbs-up to say that things are okay. In Turkey, however, this gesture is considered pretty offensive.
8. UK
Like we all know, the UK is a very liberal country and we can safely say that the society there is quite tolerant and accepting. One of the things that people there detest is discussing salaries. They will most definitely take offence if you ask them about their earnings!
9. Ireland
Most of us do not like it when people imitate the way we talk, walk or do things. In Ireland, an absolute faux pas is to try and mimic someone’s Irish accent when you’re attempting to befriend them. Make sure that you have your normal accent on, even if it’s difficult to understand each other. They will immediately take offence if you try and mimic the accent.
10. Germany
Superstition in modern society is mostly shrugged off as trivial and inconsequential. However, in Germany, people are extremely superstitious when it comes to wishing someone on their birthday. Remember never to wish anyone in Germany beforehand. They believe that this is a bad omen and the person may not live to celebrate the day.
11. Kenya
This is one thing you need to know about Kenya before you visit the country: It may sound strange but Kenyans do not like to be called by their first name unless they introduce themselves as such.
12. Chile
In Chile, people take their table manners quite seriously. It does not create a good impression if you use your fingers to eat. It is considered respectful to pick up your fork and spoon to eat your meal.
13. Singapore
Singaporeans like their surroundings clean and odor-free. So, while in Singapore make sure you do not eat while on a bus or on any public transport. They also consider it ill-mannered to feed birds, throw garbage or spit on the roads.
14. USA
In this country, while it is not compulsory, it is expected of you to leave a service appropriate tip. So be sure to leave some tip for the waiter serving you once you are done with your meal.
Hope you had fun reading this article. We will be happy to hear about your unique travel experience, do let us know of them in the comments below!
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