Never Do These Things in Foreign Countries

Summary

This video script offers a global etiquette guide for travelers, highlighting cultural do's and don'ts. From avoiding even-numbered flowers in Russia to refraining from public affection in India and Japan, it emphasizes respecting local customs. It also touches on Singapore's strict laws, Chilean dining etiquette, Mexican humor, and the informality in Norway. The script serves as a must-watch for those seeking to navigate cultural sensitivities with grace and avoid faux pas abroad.

Takeaways

• 💐 In Russia, avoid giving an even number of flowers as a gift, as it is associated with funerals and grief.
• 🍽 In Chile, it's considered rude to eat with your fingers, and table manners are highly valued, so learn the etiquette before dining.
• 🚫 Singapore is known for its strict laws; avoid chewing gum, littering, spitting, or eating on public transport to prevent hefty fines.
• 💏 In India and Japan, public displays of affection are frowned upon and can lead to legal trouble.
• 🤗 In Mexico, humor is a part of everyday life, so don't take jokes personally and embrace the local culture.
• 🏉 In New Zealand, be respectful of cultural touchstones like rugby, 'The Lord of the Rings,' and the British monarchy.
• 🇳🇴 In Norway, avoid discussing church attendance as it may be seen as disrespectful, and Norwegians prefer informal interactions.
• 🤞 In Turkey, the 'OK' hand gesture is considered offensive, and public drunkenness is viewed negatively.
• 🍮 In the United Kingdom, queuing is a social norm, and personal financial matters are considered private and off-limits for conversation.
• 🍻 In Ireland, be aware of regional accents and avoid pretending to be Irish, as well as not being stingy when buying drinks.
• 🇩🇪 In Germany, avoid any Nazi-related gestures, do not stare, and understand that Germans value personal space and take time to warm up to new acquaintances.
• 🦁 In Kenya, respect for religion is paramount, and punctuality is flexible, so adapt to the local pace of life.
• 🙏 In Malaysia and Korea, certain gestures are important for showing respect, such as not touching people's heads or using two hands when giving money.

Q & A

Why should you avoid giving an even number of flowers in Russia?

In Russia, even numbers of flowers are traditionally associated with grieving and funerals, so it is customary to give an odd number of flowers as a gift to avoid any cultural misunderstanding.

What is considered impolite when eating in Chile?

Eating with your fingers is considered impolite in Chile, even for small items like French fries. It is important to use utensils, and licking fingers or utensils is also frowned upon.

Why is chewing gum banned in Singapore?

Chewing gum is banned in Singapore due to cleanliness concerns. The government aims to maintain the city's cleanliness and low crime rate, and the ban helps prevent gum-related littering.

What is the cultural significance of not showing public affection in India?

In India, public displays of affection are culturally inappropriate and can even lead to legal consequences, such as imprisonment, reflecting the conservative nature of the society.

Why is tipping not practiced in Japan?

Tipping is not a part of Japanese culture as service staff are already well-compensated for their work. Attempting to tip in Japan may confuse or offend the recipient.

How should tourists behave when interacting with locals in Mexico?

Tourists in Mexico should be open to humor and not take jokes personally. They should also be adventurous in trying local customs, such as dancing, eating local food, or wearing traditional attire like a sombrero.

What are some sensitive topics to avoid when in New Zealand?

In New Zealand, it is best to avoid making jokes about rugby, The Lord of the Rings, and the Queen of the United Kingdom, as these are topics of national pride and respect.

Why should one avoid discussing religion in Norway?

In Norway, discussing religion can be seen as disrespectful because many people do not attend church and prefer to keep their religious beliefs private.

What is considered an obscene gesture in Turkey?

The 'okay' sign, which is made by forming a circle with the thumb and index finger, is considered obscene in Turkey and should be avoided to prevent offense.

What is the cultural expectation regarding queuing in the United Kingdom?

In the United Kingdom, queuing is a respected social norm. It is important not to jump queues as it is seen as impolite and can lead to social disapproval.

Why should you avoid discussing income levels in Ireland?

Discussing personal income levels is considered impolite in Ireland. It is better to engage in conversations about more neutral topics such as the weather, sports, or cultural interests.

What is the proper way to handle money when making transactions in Korea?

In Korea, using both hands when handing over money or a credit card is a sign of respect and good manners, which is appreciated in social and business interactions.