Every country has its own unique set of social etiquette but some may look really strange to those who are unfamiliar with them. From how to tip (or not) to how to use your feet, there are many strange rules about etiquette around the world. If you are planning a trip abroad or just hoping to impress friends from different countries, here are 11 unusual etiquette rules that will surprise you.
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Japan – Slurping Noodles Is a Compliment
Slurping earns you judgmental looks in your home country but in Japan it earns you compliments. Slurp away! When you slurp your noodles you’re showing that you loved & enjoyed that dish. Slurping also helps bring down the temperature of the noodles as you eat them. So go ahead—get loud with that ramen.
Germany – Don’t Wish Someone Happy Birthday Early
In Germany, people believe that wishing someone a happy birthday before their actual birthday brings bad luck. Do not celebrate ahead of time even when someone travels elsewhere or starts their celebration early. Germans take this seriously—it’s like tempting fate.
South Korea – Don’t Pour Your Own Drink
In South Korea, when you’re out for drinks with friends and colleagues, get someone else to pour your drink because pouring your own drink shows poor manners. Pouring drinks for others is a Korean tradition. It’s a show of respect and you should reciprocate it – if your friend pours your drink, don’t forget to pour theirs.
Japan – No Tipping
If you’re in Japan, make sure NOT to tip service providers because this is considered rude. In Japan, thanking someone with money makes people feel uncomfortable – it seems like you are questioning their competence. In fact, the service industry in Japan is focused on delivering exceptional service. It’s the standard expectation. So save your change for something else and learn to show gratitude without spending money.
China – Don’t Stick Chopsticks Upright in Rice
In China, it’s extremely disrespectful to place your chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice. This looks like incense sticks used during funeral ceremonies. Chinese people consider this extremely bad luck and disrespectful. When not using your chopsticks during a Chinese meal, you can place them flat across your bowl or plate.
Saudi Arabia – No Public Displays of Affection
Public displays of affection are strictly forbidden in Saudi culture. Even holding hands or hugging can be interpreted as disrespectful behavior in some places and you may face legal issues. So keep your romantic gestures to private places.
India – Don’t Use Your Left Hand for Greetings or Eating
Using the left hand for greetings or eating in India is a serious breach of social etiquette because the left hand is seen as unclean. You must always use your right hand to give things to others or to eat with your hands. This is a small gesture but shows your respect for local cultural practices.
Thailand – Don’t Touch Someone’s Head
In Thailand, people consider the head as the most sacred body part. This makes touching anyone’s head, especially strangers or elders, extremely disrespectful. Using your feet to point at someone is another practice that’s seen as disrespectful in Thailand. Being aware of your body language and respecting personal boundaries will help you fit right in.
Greece – Don’t Show Your Palm (Stop Gesture)
Did you know that holding out your hand with the palm towards someone (like the gesture “stop” or a high-five) is an insult in Greece? This is known as a moutza and basically means “to hell with you” so keep your palm facing down when being playful or when waving to prevent unintended rudeness.
Chile – No Eating with Your Hands
Even though fries, pizza, or burgers are acceptable finger foods in many cultures, you can’t eat them that way in Chile. People always use a knife and fork even for casual dishes. These eating habits are based on cleanliness and showing good manners. So when dining in Chile, always use utensils instead of your hands.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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