It may seem that kissing is the main occupation of the French<\/em><\/p>
The "social" kiss – a kiss not between actual or potential lovers – is much more serious than just an inappropriate peck. By kissing, people effectively perform a microanalysis of saliva and body odors, which allows them to learn more about the opponent's intentions, about what he himself might prefer to remain silent about. The simplest example: if someone is plotting something bad and is nervous, they may start to emit a stronger smell of sweat, which, on an intuitive level, will cause concern among others. Everything happens instantly – within a couple of seconds, the brain of the person greeting receives information about the interlocutor's intentions. But, as Turist.ru notes, this tactic cannot be applied in all corners of the world, mainly only in Europe.<\/p>
Austria<\/p>
With friends, it is enough to kiss once on each cheek in any order.<\/p>
Afghanistan<\/p>
Among male friends, a three-time kiss starting from the left cheek is common. It is understood that women in this Muslim country are not forced to kiss anyone.<\/p>
Great Britain<\/p>
The inhabitants of this harsh, continent-separated country are not inclined to indulge in sentimentality with friends and simply shake hands, and when meeting strangers they merely nod their heads.<\/p>
Hungary<\/p>
A couple of kisses with acquaintances and friends in Hungary won't hurt. At work, however, it is better to refrain.<\/p>
Germany<\/p>
Germans live up to the image of a strict, reserved nation – they only kiss close people, with others they limit themselves to a handshake.<\/p>
Netherlands<\/p>
In this country, it is customary to kiss three times, starting and ending on the right cheek. Although this is practiced more by women than by men. However, an exception is made for the most welcome guests: the more frequently and often they are kissed, the more love and respect is shown.<\/p>
Italy<\/p>
Hot-blooded Italians are wary of excessive kisses not related to romantic relationships. Apart from the sultry brunette beauties and frivolous blondes with whom they have developed closer relationships, the inhabitants of the Apennines will only kiss very close people an unlimited number of times on either cheek. For other friends, they prefer to shake hands and hug, accompanying the process with thunderous exclamations about how long cruel fate has kept them apart. It doesn't matter that 'long' means the day before yesterday. Italians have their own perception of time.<\/p>
Spain<\/p>
Acquaintances, mere acquaintances, and complete strangers kiss each other in greeting at every turn, but no more than once on the cheek, starting with the right. In these parts, it is customary to kiss any vaguely familiar person, as well as all their relatives and friends if they happen to be nearby, and to do it everywhere – on promenades, in stores, at work.<\/p>
China<\/p>
Whether in an effort to curb the population explosion or for some other reason, kissing, hugging, and other intimate acts in public are not allowed here, even between husband and wife.<\/p>
Poland<\/p>
Having turned its face to the West, Poland strives to become as 'European' as possible and adopts many traditions from EU residents, and therefore social kisses are becoming more common. Although previously in this country it was always customary to kiss the hand instead of the cheek.<\/p>
Thailand<\/p>
Public kissing is not only out of favor but also prohibited by law, even between lovers. Those who break this rule may well face problems with the local police.<\/p>
Finland<\/p>
In this country, tactile contacts between people are not common at all – after all, everything, especially greetings, can be expressed in words. Although the 'incoming' foreign youth do not pay attention to this and continue to kiss at every opportunity.<\/p>
France<\/p>
Perhaps kissing is the main occupation of the inhabitants of this country. Absolutely everyone kisses regularly. Moreover, while in most European countries it is customary to kiss twice on the cheek when meeting, Parisians prefer to do it four times: starting with the left cheek and alternately kissing both. Although the ever-hurrying youth may not observe this tradition and prefer to limit themselves to a couple of air kisses.<\/p>
Japan<\/p>
Openly showing one's feelings of joy at meeting relatives and friends and therefore kissing them is considered the height of impropriety here. After all, there are hundreds of types of bows for greetings.<\/p>
Anastasia GVENDYAEVA.
Turist.ru<\/strong><\/p>