When going on a trip abroad, be sure to study local traditions
Knowledge of local customs and prejudices is a kind of insurance that will greatly ease your trip, help you feel confident, and return home with only the most pleasant and joyful memories. Traveling abroad most often involves everyday situations such as meeting, greeting, gift-giving, and communication. That is what this article will discuss.
How to greet
In Arab countries, Muslims always stand when greeting. They only greet men. First comes a firm handshake, then the right hand is pressed to the heart.
Do not refuse if you are offered tea or coffee after the greeting. Most likely, you will be served two glasses: one with the drink, the other with water to wash it down. Do not forget to take the last sip from the glass with the drink, not the water, otherwise you will be considered ignorant.
Do not ask a Muslim about his wife. This will be taken as a sign that you have special intentions towards her. If you want to make an impression of a polite and caring interlocutor, just ask how the family is doing. That will be enough.
How to give gifts
In Europe, it is not customary to give sharp objects – knives, sabers, swords, corkscrews, etc. It is believed that such a gift will bring discord and enmity into the home.
In the East, when a man gives a weapon to a man, it means he is showing him special respect. This is the best gift any Muslim can receive. During the gift-giving ceremony, do not forget to whisper something like 'Take this, and forgive me for giving such a trifle.' This will distract evil spirits and drive away envious thoughts from your gift.
How to visit a doctor
In Europe, people usually do not pay the full amount for medical services; they underpay at least a small part. It is believed that if you pay in full, you may not need the doctor next time.
Asians consider it their duty to pay in full, otherwise the illness will return again and again.
When going abroad, do not forget about such an aspect of a foreign trip as medical insurance. Insurance costs peanuts, and you get insurance protection in case you get sick or injured.
Animals
If you are in China, do not tell a slow person that they work like a turtle. The fact is that in China, the turtle is considered the meanest animal in the world.
If you are on board a Spanish or Italian ship, do not mention a pig in your speech – it will be seen as a wish to run aground.
Be friendly and tolerant, and when preparing for a trip, do not forget to familiarize yourself with the rules for safe travel abroad. Human trafficking and the use of slave labor are pressing global issues that should not be forgotten. If you do thorough preparation before leaving, a safe return home, vivid photos, and pleasant memories are guaranteed.
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