Travel Etiquette by Country
Argentina is a country in South America known for its European influence, gorgeous wetlands and metropolis capital Buenos Aires. Whether you are learning to appreciate the diverse wildlife or enjoying the museums and restaurants in Buenos Aires, the following basic rules of etiquette will assist you in blending in with the locals.
When you visit Canada it’s important to remember a few basic rules of etiquette to ensure that you have the best trip possible. With Canada being such a vast and large country mass wise – it is a good idea to understand the regional differences of this country.
The important thing to remember when visiting tropical countries in the Caribbean is that their etiquette and rules of behaviour usually originates from their mother countries. As the Caribbean has influences from England and France it is always a good idea to check with your travel agent, hotel concierge or cruise staff.
The Spanish language is one common thing travellers will find in Central American countries. So it is a good idea to brush up on your Spanish before you visit this part of the world so you will be seen as a much more polite foreigner. Don’t stress out about your pronunciation as the locals will make allowances for the fact that you are a visitor.
The following basic rules of etiquette should assist travellers to Chile to avoid some possibly embarrassing and awkward moments. Spanish is the official language of Chile so it’s good to learn a bit of Spanish. At morning time you say “buenos dias”. In the afternoon it is “buenas tardes”, and then in the evening it is “buenas noches
China has been long known for its traditions, ceremonies and etiquette over the years. Whilst it is important to understand the daily manners and courtesies of social life in China you will find that the Chinese are very accepting of cultural differences.
When visiting the South American country of Ecuador it’s a good idea to use some of the following rules of etiquette to ensure your trip is free of any social embarrassment. Keep direct eye contact as a sign of respect and a smile to show you are approachable.
Before you visit the beautiful islands of Fiji, it is a good idea to learn some basic rules of etiquette about this country. The following tips are designed to give you a basic rundown on how to participate in and enjoy Fiji’s local customs. A yaqona (pronounced YAH-GOONA-AH) is also known as kava.
The following etiquette tips are a general guide to assist you in blending in with the locals and preventing social faux pas when visiting Germany. The following words are a great start: ‘bitte’ (please and welcome), danke (thank you), auf wiedersehen (goodbye), and guten abend (good evening).
Hawaii is known as a beautiful Island with fantastic culture – so following a few basic rules of etiquette will ensure you treat this country with respect and have a great holiday. Wait patiently in cue – it’s part of the culture in Hawaii. Things go slower in Hawaii, so relax and enjoy the change of pace. Honking your horn will be considered rude.
Hong Kong is a sophisticated, modern and cosmopolitan mix of Asian and European culture. By following these basic rules of etiquette travellers can enjoy this diverse and exciting country. It’s rude to point. Instead, point with your hand open.
When visiting Iceland the major social mistakes made by visitors are usually at the swimming pools! There are a few things to keep in mind when visiting this country that has often been called “Niceland” by travellers. Do not enter a pool or sauna without showering first. Leave your shoes and socks outside the locker room.
Indonesia is an extremely diverse culture with over three hundred ethnic groups that speak over seven hundred different languages. The following are basic rules of etiquette when visiting Indonesia however with such a diverse combination of traditions it is always best to research the place you are visiting in Indonesia to adhere to the harmonic way of their lifestyle.
The Irish are said to be very courteous and happy to make travellers feel at home. However, there are always a few things to remember to ensure you don’t commit any etiquette fails – which are mostly about avoiding stereotypes! There’s a stereotype that the Irish wear a lot of wool or tweed and that visitors shouldn’t dress too flashy.
Italy is known for more than its amazing coffee and great pizza, so it’s important to remember some basic rules of etiquette when visiting. You will see many Churches in Italy and should dress appropriately. Shorts, singlet tops or revealing clothing is taboo. Also, you should never bring food into a church.
Japan is sometimes seen as a pretty daunting travel destination when considering all the etiquette, traditions, ceremony and superstitions. In reality, the Japanese are pretty forgiving to foreigners and don’t get easily offended. However, there is some basic etiquette you should be aware of before you travel.
The Middle East is a very large open space of land that has an assortment of customs and etiquette to be aware of when visiting. By following these few basic rules of etiquette you can rest easy in The Middle East and enjoy everything this unique country has to offer.
The following etiquette tips are a general guide to assist you in blending in with the locals and preventing social faux pas when visiting the Netherlands. Don’t be offended by the directness of the Dutch. In general Dutch people are very direct and outspoken. Whilst they won’t raise their voice or show anger in public.
When visiting New Zealand it is a good idea to understand their culture to get the most out of visiting this very unique and dynamic culture. Smile! New Zealanders are generally a very social and friendly group. They appreciate good manners and a happy relaxed attitude. A smile goes a long way in New Zealand.
A handshake and a warm smile are the general greetings in Peru. Men who know each other well will pat each other on the back and women will give each other a kiss on the cheek. Eye contact is not overly common, particularly with local Amerindians (indigenous peoples of the Americas). If you’re called a “gringo” this means “foreigner” and is generally not said offensively.
Once travellers get over the stereotype that Russians are gloomy people drinking vodka in their big furry hats – by following a few rules of basic etiquette visitors are able to enjoy this country with an amazing depth of cultural and historical worth. Have a firm handshake and maintain eye contact when meeting.
Singapore is a very fascinating and beautiful blend of culture that requires travellers to follow a few rules of etiquette to enjoy this diverse country. Public transport has strict rules. These include; no smoking, no flammable goods, no eating or drinking (including water) and you may even see signs saying NO DURIANS. Durian is Malay for a type of fruit.
Food is a very important aspect of Spanish life, so don’t be surprised if you’re invited to a family lunch that goes from 2 pm to 4 pm in which you’re very well fed and afterwards may even have a “siesta” (afternoon rest or nap). Evening meals generally do not start before 9 pm and dining out on weekends can start at 10 pm.
The following basic rules of etiquette will assist travellers to this small European country blend in with the locals and relaxing on their trip without worrying about the social faux pas. Loud obnoxious behaviour is frowned upon. Don’t be that loud person on public transport having loud conversations in a group or on your mobile phone. Talking loudly in public is considered rude and obnoxious.
Tahitians emphasize the French word joie de vivre – which means “joy of life”. To ensure you experience the joy of life whilst visiting this French Polynesian country it would be beneficial to learn some cultural etiquette before you visit. It wouldn’t hurt to learn some French as well! The main meal of the day in Tahiti is generally served at lunchtime.
The local Thai greeting is known as the “wai” (why). It is an insult not to return the wai if it is offered, so learn how to do it. It is done by placing your hands together like you are praying, holding it at chest level close to your body and bowing slightly. A wai can be used to say “Hello,” “Goodbye”, “Thank you,” or “I’m sorry,”
The United Arab Emirates (USA) is filled with modern cities that welcome travellers across the globe to enjoy the surroundings. However, as a country with a large Muslim population, it is very important to get familiar with the UAE’s culture and etiquette. The following basic rules should assist travellers to ensure their trip is trouble-free and enjoyable.
In general Vietnamese society is very traditional and conservative. Whilst there is some basic etiquette you need to be aware of the Vietnamese are very tolerant to foreigners and aren’t easily offended. If you are visiting the more rural areas of Vietnam it is a good idea to have an understanding the basic customs and etiquette as the locals are less used to foreigners.
Venezuela is a country on the North Coast of South America that is known for crisp blue waters, scenic waterfalls and even sand dunes. Whilst visitors are enjoying the scenery of such there are a few basic rules of etiquette to make your stay more enjoyable – not just for you, but for the locals.