Culture and its traditions of a country is spread out to bordering countries. It's important to respect these customs and stay away from taboos, as they insult and disrespect people of their country You must know how to act in public. Here are some examples of countries and their dos and don'ts:
Germany
Do's
- Remove your shoes before entering a German house.
- Blow your nose only in a private are or the restroom. It's impolite to blow your nose in front of others.
- Address everyone formally and shake hands with everyone, including kids.
- Don't use the "ok" sign in germany, it's very rude and insulting.
- Never be latein a meeting or at a gathering. It's very disrespectful and an insult to germans.
- Don't put your hands into your pockets when speaking with someone. They expect solvenly behavior.
Do's
- Give the common "thumbs up" gesture. it means o.k. and expresses approval
- Whenever you are speaking with someone, you must be close to them. it is common to be touching someone in public as well (hugging, holding hands, etc.).
- Always be logical with your opinions, as the French will quickly criticize your opinions and interests if they seem illogical
- Don't point with fingers at anything. If needed to you need to show something, use your whole hand instead.
- Dress well and fashionably in public unless you are at a meeting
- When eating bread, don't break it into large pieces. I'ts a custom to break it into very small pieces.
- It's not commonly to shake hands, you are most likely going to exchange kisses with somoone when greeting someone.
Switzerland
Do's
- Greet others with the traditional swiss greeting with 3 kisses on the cheek, and a handshake for the first meeting.
- Act quietly in public, because it's impolite if you are bothering others
- ALWAYS have eye contact with the person you are speaking with, no matter if it's your family members or strangers. Not having eye contact with the speaker is unacceptable, and plainly rude
- Do not speak about your personal problems with anyone, its isn't common.
- Do not leave trash around at all. Always clean up after yourselves.
- Do not show up more than 15 minutes late to a friend's dinner or a family gathering, as it's considered very rude.
Netherlands
Do's
- Be modest about your opinions and follow your own interests, but be ready to be criticisized.
- Planning and organizing meetings or gatherings is valued in the Netherlands.
- When greeting someone, say your last name and repeat your last name when shaking hands
- be aware that bicycles are the most common transportation, and know to not diss or disresepect them
- Do not brag about your wealth, money or possessions in public, because it won't impress anyone.
- Do not place your hands in you pockets, and make sure your hands are free when you shake hands with another.
- Don't discuss about one's privacy. The Dutch respect everyone's privacy
- Do not criticize the Dutch Royal Family, and don't speak with gum in your mouth.
England
Do's
- When entering a building, take off your hat. It is considered impolite to keep your hat on inside, especially in churches
- When waiting for something, always form lines to not confuse others.
- maintain a low voice always
- Do not greet anyone with a kiss, just family or close friends.
- Do not pick your nose in public. Use a handkerchief if you need to
- Do not "pass wind" in public.
- Do not ask questions that involve someone's privacy