Wed 29 Nov 2006
As an anthropology nut, I must tell you the single most important thing you should do before traveling overseas is to learn a little bit of the culture. Throw in some language too and people will be nicer, you’ll have an easier time getting around, and the understanding you gain will give you an appreciation for the country and people you encounter.
Get a book on the place you plan to go. Until then I found a nice little list of faux pas (things that will rub people the wrong way) across the globe. I selected the following countries for a variety of reasons, but you can check out the entire list here. Of course, nothing is better than the real thing, if you have anything to add, we’d love to hear it.
Thanks!
6 Responses to “International Faux Pas”
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September 10th, 2007 at 10:34
[...] people as they interact, as the picture above from a park in France demonstrates. Proxemics, like international faux pas, are highly culturally variable should be brushed up upon before venturing to a new place - [...]
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[...] tipping is catching on in many parts of the third world but still make sure check if it’s a faux pas before dropping some [...]
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[...] article also provides you with backup phrases in case you really want to dish the dirt on an annoying waiter (after they serve you your food of course). Which are your favorite [...]
June 12th, 2008 at 6:01
[...] 10 minutes before you go and research online. Read about the safe and sketchy parts of town, any local faux pas, and common [...]