When it comes to customs, people can be really particular – especially when it comes to tourists. If you’ve ever tutted on the tube when people stand on the left of the escalator, or grumbled out loud when somebody butts in the queue, then you’ll know how this feels. We’re all set in our ways, and when someone who doesn’t know what they’re doing comes blundering into our life, it’s often difficult to turn a blind eye, especially if they’re being downright rude in our eyes. With this in mind, here’s a (non-comprehensive) list of ways you can avoid angering the local residents when on holiday abroad, and who knows – maybe you’ll even get a smile in return?
In British culture, a tip of around 10% at the end of a meal is seen as an appreciation for excellent food or service, but around the world there are many different attitudes that are sometimes taken very seriously. In the US, you are expected to tip up to 20%, and it’s considered a huge faux pas to leave nothing. At the other end of the scale, in Japan, Singapore and South Korea, you could cause offense if you tip, as it can be seen as a boastful display of your own wealth. In most European countries there is no pressure to tip, but servers will be grateful of any gratuity, with most people simply rounding up the bill, although in Spain no tip at all is expected.
Although you might be travelling with loved ones, in many countries it’s seen as promiscuous or inappropriate to show varying degrees of affection in public. Although full on French-kissing in public is seen as unpleasant worldwide, in many Asian nations including South Korea, and Turkey, any form of kissing is frowned upon outside your own home. In the Middle East, modestly is considered very important, and public indecency can be considered anything down to hand-holding, although tourist-heavy areas such as Dubai are generally more lenient.
Here in the UK we’re used to shaking hands when we meet friends, family or colleagues, but around the globe there are many other ways to greet people. In France, kissing on the cheek is customary, but the number of kisses varies from region to region, and the practise is also commonplace across Greece, Italy, Spain and Portugal. Japanese bowing is well-known, and the length and depth of the bow usually depends on the social rank of the person you are greeting. Although tourists are not expected to know all the ins and outs, it is still very appreciated when an effort is made and you will never be criticised for getting it wrong. Some cultures have very unique practices, so research or ask your hotel staff how you should greet people when heading out and about, to ingratiate yourself with the locals.
It’ll come as no surprise that certain countries have particular dress codes, which can vary from region to region and day to day. In many Muslim countries for example, such as Qatar, Malaysia and the UAE, people are expected to have their bodies covered from their shoulders to their knees when out in public, such as at shopping malls and in museums or galleries. Centres of tourism generally have more relaxed codes, but topless sunbathing is strictly prohibited for women, as is changing clothes in public, even on the beach. In much of Europe and South America, it is seen as offensive to wear ‘outdoor clothing’ such as coats and hats inside, especially at the dinner table.
This button will take you to a short form where we'll ask about your destination and preferences. If you don't like filling in forms simply give us a call on 0203 816 0985 and we'll be happy to help you.
Let's Plan Your TripJoin our email to receive exclusive offers and airline sales direct to your inbox. Unsubscribe anytime (but why would you want to?)
Dummy text... Join our email network to receive exclusive offers and notifications of airline sales direct to your inbox. Unsubscribe anytime (but why would you want to?)
Dummy text...Thanks for sharing your experience with this. Its interesting how other cultures perceive how you “should be” if you are an American.
Thanks for sharing your experience with this.