Travel etiquette fluctuates depending on which part of the world you are in. For example, in India, it is considered rude to enter someone’s house with your shoes on, unless, of course, you live in a bachelor party where the definition of dirty changes at ease.
We’ve listed some of the off beat rules you may need to play when you visit these countries.
United Kingdom
When in Britain it is always wise to play by the commuter rules. Known for their impatience, Londoners consider it rude to stand on the left side of an escalator. Watch your step, guys.
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Japan
It is a candy land for world travelers. Why do you ask that? Because if you try to tip, you will be rejected in most places. Service workers across the country believe in providing true hospitality.
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Indonesia
Being serf could get you some nasty looks. Indonesians consider eating with left hand unhygienic and unhealthy as it is used to perform bodily ablutions. Not only that, shaking your left hand with someone is unacceptable.
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Hungary
You’ve just finished a trek in the Albanian Alps and are itching to clink a few beer glasses with your team at one of the bars, our advice to you would be – DON’T. Why? Apparently, in the year 1848, while the 13 martyrs of Arad were being executed by the Austrian Empire, the Austrian soldiers were drinking beer and clattering their glasses.
France
Remember that game you played as a kid – who will blink first? When you’re in French territory, being an ace in this little game will help save your sex life. It is said that if you break eye contact during a toast, you will have terrible experiences in bed for the next seven years.
Brazil
Turning the bird = the OK hand gesture in Brazil. So a symbol of goodwill equates to an angry, offensive sign in other parts of the world. Not even sure what this is like, but it is what it is.
China
What will happen when you walk to your friend’s new apartment with a wrapped clock in hand. Everywhere else: “Hey there, thank you very much. Step in.” In China: “Oh no.” No, they are not rude people, it’s just that Chinese words for a clock sound like words for death.
Venezuela
You are visiting friends, family or are on a business trip to Venezuela and have been invited for a meal. Don’t forget to be late. Yes, that’s exactly how you don’t come across as greedy.
Portugal
Stuck with bland food? If you’re in Portugal, that’s how it will be for the rest of the time you spend in the restaurant. In this country, asking for salt and pepper or any condiments/herbs is considered a direct insult to the cook.
Philippines
We’ve been told that a loose handshake is a sign of low self-confidence, but here strong handshakes are considered aggressive.
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