International Customs

By  Ann Crossley

With such vast diversity cultures in our world, it’s important for us as ambassadors of America to become familiar and to comply with the customs of any country in which we will be traveling or living. Here are a few tips about the countries in which our military serves.

Germany

*A gift of flowers is typical, but red roses are reserved for wives and sweethearts. Give an odd number of flowers, but never 13, because 13 is considered unlucky.

*At a restaurant, it’s considered impolite to start drinking before everyone at the table is served their beverage and glasses are raised in a toast, but you may start eating as soon as your plate is served.

*German table manners call for keeping your left hand above the table at all times. When not using it to eat, rest your wrist or arm (never elbow) on the table.

Italy

*Gifts of flowers should be given in even numbers, but never six or 12, and never chrysanthemums, because those are appropriate only for coffins and graves.

*Cheese is never put on pasta containing seafood.

Spain

*Dinner is served very late by American standards. Restaurants seldom open before 9 p.m. and don’t become active until around 11 p.m.

Saudi Arabia

*Muslims never eat with the left hand; it is considered unclean and used only for hygiene purposes.

*Women are not permitted to drive and, when in public, never show bare parts of their bodies.

Turkey

*Courtesy requires that women not wear sleeveless clothing.

*Tea is offered by everyone from hosts to shopkeepers; to refuse would be a great insult.

Japan

*Bowing is considered the proper way to greet someone. The lower the bow, the more respect is being shown.

*When giving hostess gifts, never give gifts of four, because the word for four in Japanese is also the word for death; wrapping is very important, but never in white or brightly colored paper; present the gift with both hands at the end of your visit; don’t expect the gift to be opened in front of you.

* Slurping soup and noodles is considered good manners.

*If you wear a kimono, be sure to wrap the left side over the right. The reverse is used only for the dead.

International friendships

If you have the opportunity to host, sponsor or entertain an international family, jump at the chance! It can be an enriching, memorable experience for everyone — but it’s a good idea to do a little homework first. Find out about any religious food restrictions or cultural practices that should be taken into account when planning your menu or activity. Are there other cultural differences that you need to know? For example, Americans like to talk at arm’s length, but some nationalities feel more comfortable standing inches apart to talk.

There are numerous differences between our culture and others. While you don’t want to change your American ways to accommodate your guests — they want to learn about you, too — some customs need to be recognized and honored in order not to offend. However, never hesitate to get involved for fear of making a mistake; faux pas are easily overlooked when your intentions are good.