Japan
Never stick your chopsticks vertically in a bowl of rice in Japan. It’s considered extremely taboo because it reminds people of funerals where a bowl of rice is offered with two chopsticks standing vertically in the center as an offering to the deceased.
Vietnam
It is considered a major cultural mistake not to remove your shoes before entering a home in Vietnam as the interior of a home represents personal space. You have to show respect by leaving your shoes outside the door and make sure your feet are clean.
Greece
Leaving food on your plate in Greece can be seen as an insult to your host as it can imply that you didn’t think the food was appetizing.
Russia
Giving a person yellow flowers in Russia represents hate and is offensive. Yellow flowers are also considered funeral flowers. They only give flowers in odd numbers, an even number of flowers is never given.
India
Indian food is generally meant to be eaten with your fingers and will be served in such a way as to make that convenient for you. Use two fingers and the bread to scoop up liquidy dishes. Make sure to use your right hand when eating as the left is seen as ‘unclean’ and disrespectful.
Morocco
Modesty isn’t just seen as a religious issue but is also a sign of respect and politeness in Morocco. Both genders are generally expected to wear clothing that covers the shoulders and goes to below the knees. Running shorts, sleeveless shirts, and beachwear are only worn when playing sports or at the beach, and if worn at other times are almost tantamount to wearing only your underwear.
China
Gift giving is an important ritual in China, but when you’re picking out a present be sure to avoid any cutting implements. Never give knives, scissors, or any other cutting equipment as gifts because they signal the end of your relationship.
Mexico
Patience is a virtue in Mexico. Mexicans are extremely polite, so losing your temper over delays or complaining loudly will get you branded as rude and make people less inclined to help you.
United Arab Emirates
If you travel to a Muslim country during Ramadan, a Holy month observed by the Muslims all over the world, know that observant people will be fasting from sunup to sundown. It is a very poor manners to eat or drink in front of people who are fasting. This doesn’t mean you don’t need to follow their fast but you should eat your meals where they won’t be bothered by the sight, sound, or smell of you eating.
Japan
Here, as in most countries, you pour your own drink when you’re thirsty. In Japan, this is considered greedy, narcissistic, and even anti-social. In other words, you are being incredibly rude by pouring your beer, wine, or sake into your own glass. Instead, it is proper to pour for other people at the table first, and they will in turn reciprocate the gesture. If you finish your glass before others do, simply top them off, and you will get the same treatment.
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