Customs and Manners in Foreign Countries   by KiyaSama

Whether you like it or not, you are a representative of the United States once you travel to a foreign country. Many have to come to associate such questions as: “Don’t you have an American cup of coffee?” or “You don’t speak English?” or “That’s not how we do things at home.” as typical American behavior overseas.

Nonetheless, there are several things you just can’t do when you travel as they are regarded in bad taste: taking photographs of people without asking their permission, acting critical or amused by customs that are alien to you, getting too familiar, too fast (for example, slapping someone on the back, even if the gesture is well intentioned).

To be regarded as a good ambassador (and save yourself from embarrassment), it’s advisable to read a few books or research online about the culture and customs of the country you plan to visit.

Clothing: Wearing shorts in public is generally not acceptable in most parts of the world, including some European countries. In Arab countries, low necklines, sleeveless shirts, and short skirts are definitely a bad idea. When in doubt, dress conservatively. Also, while it is tempting to dress in the local style, like wearing a sari in India, be sensitive to the culture • • ” sometimes the local citizenry will appreciate your attempt to fit in; sometimes it will be considered an insult.

Greetings/touching: Handshakes are an almost universally accepted form of greeting, although in some countries, like Japan, a traditional bow from the waist down is preferred. Be careful how you address someone; don’t use first names unless you are invited to do so. In some countries, you’ll see a lot of hugging and kissing going on among the locals (Greece, Italy, Latin countries, Slavic countries); an affectionate hug or peck on the cheek that you share with a new acquaintance is fine, but usually if you are responding to, not initiating it.

Language/Gestures: Taking a crash course in the language of the country you will be visiting rarely results in the mastery of the language. Instead, learn some polite expressions (hello-goodbye-thank you) and relax. English is pretty common worldwide, especially in tourist areas, and you can always include body language to get your message across. However, some American gestures have totally different meanings in other countries. For example, in Bulgaria, shaking your head horizontally means “yes”; shaking it vertically means “no”. Also using the American gesture for “OK” (the thumb and forefinger making a circle with the other fingers pointing up) can be embarrassing. In Brazil that gesture means “screw you”: in Japan it means “money”: in Southern France it means “zero” or “worthless”.

Food/Drink: You may find yourself staring down at a local delicacy • • ” snake soup in China, a yak burger in Tibet, sheep’s eyes in Saudi Arabia, calves’ brains in France • • ” and wonder what to do, particularly if you are a guest in someone’s home. Be brave, take small bites, and pretend it tastes like something you like. When presented with a strong alcoholic drink, like ouzo in Greece, take small sips and stop when you must (you can refuse, citing medical reasons as your excuse). Remember that Hindus and some Buddhists don’t eat beef (the cow is sacred); Muslims don’t eat pork, and strict Muslims abstain from alcohol. If you are eating with Muslims, never touch food with your left hand (the left hand is for bathroom use and is considered unsanitary; using it would be very offensive).

Socializing/conversations: If you are acquainted with the history and culture of the country, you shouldn’t get unnerved. In general, some topics can be touchy or controversial, like money, religion, politics, and sex. But the particular nature of the people is critical. The Japanese do not want to talk about World War II; the French scowl at the classic American question: “What do you do for a living?”; the Chinese call their country “China” or the “People’s Republic of China” • • ” not “the Mainland”; people in Scotland are “Scots” or “Scotsmen,” not “Scotch” (the drink) or “Scottish” (the language or the terrier).

About the Author

KiyaSama is an author on http://www.Writing.Com/
which is a site for Writers.

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Culture and Customs of India $3.98 India and the Indian ways of life in the new century are freshly and comprehensively overviewed in this volume. This one-stop resource enables students and other interested readers to begin to understand the vast country with its population of one billion people, representing hundreds of social groups with more than 100 languages spoken. Henderson provides expert insight into a cross-section of society. The caste system, Hinduism, the sari, women’s roles, and a dazzling array of festivals are just some of the facets of the culture and customs explained. Although the volume primarily focuses on contemporary India, Henderson’s knowledgeable narrative incorporates the progression of culture from the earliest civilization to the nuclear weapons debate. There is no other general, in-depth, up-to-date reference that provides the coverage on the land, people, and history; religion; world view; art and literature; landscape and architecture; food and dress; women, marriage, and family; festivals and leisure activities; music and dance; and social customs and lifestyles. Numerous photos, a chronology, and glossary complement the narrative.

Culture and Customs of Senegal $56.48 A blend of indigenous life in the rural countryside and metropolitan culture in urban centers, Senegal has been a small, yet prominent country on Africa’s western coast. In this comprehensive study of contemporary Senegalese life, readers will learn how daily lifestyles are celebrated through both religious and secular customs. Students can investigate how Senegal’s oral storytelling, Islamic roots, and French colonialism have shaped literature and media in today’s society. From the street to the studio, the topic of art in Senegalese life is also covered. Ross also delves into architectural styles and modern housing in urban environments, while also covering typical cuisine and traditional fashion. Readers will learn about the typical Senegalese family as a social and economic unit, and will see how music, dance, and sports play an integral role in their lives. Ideal for high school students and general readers, this volume in the Culture and Customs of Africa series is a perfect addition to any library’s reference collection.

Culture and Customs of Vietnam $17.48 Vietnam is increasingly opening up to the West, and society is in flux between tradition and modernity, and capitalism and socialism. Americans have distanced themselves from the Vietnam War now, and "Culture and Customs of Vietnam" fills a need to learn about the country, which has also evolved. Readers will find that this is the only general book on Vietnamese culture in English written by specialists. McLeod and Nguyen, historians specializing in Vietnam engagingly show the various forces of Vietnamese culture in narrative chapters on the land, people, and language; history and institutions; thought and religion; literature; art and architecture; cuisine; family, marriage, gender, and youth culture; festivals and leisure activities, and performing arts. "Culture and Customs of Vietnam" is a comprehensive, one-stop source, providing the most useful and intriguing information for students and general readers. Some of the highlights include the discussion of the Chinese influence in writing, thought, and religion; eating habits; the changing family; and water puppetry. A chronology, glossary, and numerous photos complement the text.

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