Misunderstandings between two cultures occur time and again when tourists are unfamiliar with the usual manners of the host country. Without realising it, the visitor puts his foot in his mouth or misunderstands the reactions of the locals. Here are a few typical intercultural misunderstandings.

 

In Islamic countries, the religion forbids showing too much naked skin. When swimming by the sea in Islamic countries such as Egypt, women should not walk around in a bikini. Only prostitutes are so scantily clad there, so the bikini ladies quickly become victims of lewd advances from the locals.

In Arab countries, people only eat with their right hand because they believe that the devil controls their left hand.

In Turkey, after an invitation to a meal, more than a thank you is expected, namely a return invitation.

When greeting someone in Japan, the visitor should bow as deeply as their host. If he does not bow as deeply, the host will see this as a humiliation.

In Russia, it is considered a sign of friendship to drink vodka together. The only acceptable excuse is for drivers.

In Switzerland, you only say "Bye" to really good friends.

The okay sign, in which the thumb and index finger form an O, is an obscene gesture in Turkey.

Norwegians write the phrase "Takk for alt" (Thank you for everything) on their gravestones, so it's less of a farewell phrase.

In Finland, salt and pepper shakers are not passed on, as this is said to bring bad luck.

In Islamic countries, a devout woman will not shake hands with a strange man. This is not meant to be unfriendly, but is part of her faith.

Cubans do not pronounce Fidel Castro's name, but make a gesture with their hand that symbolises the dictator's beard.

Indians almost immediately ask if you are married. This is not meant to be intrusive. Rather, marital status is important in their lives and opens up a casual conversation.

In the USA, on the other hand, people often ask about income, and only to compare their own salary with the usual salary abroad.

In many other cultures, especially in southern countries, punctuality is not as important. This is not meant to be rude, the person waiting is just not the centre of attention as in Germany.

In Asian countries, people often say "yes" just to avoid disappointing the other person, even if they haven't understood what it's about or don't know the answer.

In Malaysia, public displays of homosexuality can be punished with imprisonment and caning.

In the USA, taking photos of naked children on the beach, including your own, is quickly recognised as child pornography.

Italians only eat their spaghetti with a fork, not a spoon.

In Spain, you turn up half an hour late to a dinner invitation. If you arrive on time or even too early, you will find that the host is not even ready yet.

In Luxembourg, people eat cake with a knife and fork.

In China, never stick the chopsticks vertically into the rice, as this is part of a burial ritual.

If you have a cold in Vietnam, you should not blow your nose, but pull up your nose. Blowing your nose with a handkerchief is considered unhygienic.

A public kiss in Dubai can result in a prison sentence.

An Arab's possessions should not be admired and praised, otherwise he may feel compelled to give them away.