Traveling to a new country is exciting and a joyous moment to many. Many have craved to visit many countries as they could—but without an understanding of local customs, it’s easy to accidentally offend your hosts country. Cultural etiquette varies across the globe, and what’s polite in one country may be completely inappropriate in another and even offensive to them.
To help you avoid embarrassment and make meaningful connections, here are 7 cultural etiquette tips that every traveler should know.
1. 🇯🇵 Don’t Tip in Japan
In countries like the U.S. or Canada, tipping is a standard practice. But in Japan, leaving a tip is often seen as rude or unnecessary. Service workers take pride in providing excellent service without expecting extra payment. That’s for Japanese.
Note: If you really want to show appreciation, give a small gift or express thanks verbally using “Arigatou gozaimasu.” When you are in Japan.
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2. 🇮🇳 Use Your Right Hand in India and the Middle East
In many South Asian and Middle Eastern cultures, the left hand is traditionally associated with personal hygiene and is considered unclean. Always use your right hand when eating, shaking hands, or giving something to someone. They see the right hand of good to use to exchange pleasantry and otherwise. While other countries or culture doesn’t see that as offensive, others see it offensive. Now, you know. When you visit such country, you know the best thing to do in order not to offend your host.
Note: If you’re left-handed, make an effort to switch in public settings—it goes a long way in showing respect especially when you eventually visit those aforementioned countries.
3. Dress Modestly When Visiting Religious Sites in Europe
In places like Italy, Greece, or Spain, churches and cathedrals often have dress codes. Showing too much skin—even in hot weather—may lead to you being turned away at the door. They disregard such dressing. When you visit these countries and to avoid embarrassment even during hot weather try your best to dress modesty, now that you know.
Note: Carry a scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders or legs when visiting religious or sacred sites.
4. 🇨🇳 Accept Gifts with Both Hands in China
In Chinese culture, receiving a gift with one hand can be perceived as disrespectful. Instead, accept it with both hands as a sign of gratitude and humility. In this matter, I will say not only China. Many African cultures see it as disrespectful to accept gift with one hand and to make the matter worst, try to accept it with left hand.
Note: It’s also common to politely refuse a gift once or twice before you will finally accept it—it shows modesty.
5. 🇷🇺 Don’t Smile Too Much in Russia
While smiling is often considered a friendly gesture in the West, in Russia, excessive smiling—especially with strangers—can come off as insincere or even suspicious. Though smiling get it limitation, the one we are talking about is a serious matter Russia. When traveling to Russia, know the kind of smile you will be doing to avoid trouble there.
Note: Save your smiles for genuine interactions and relationships. Russians value authenticity over politeness. Try to avoid trouble there, this is what we want to let you know before your possible visit to Russia.
6. 🇹🇭 Remove Your Shoes in Thailand
In Thailand and many Southeast Asian countries, shoes are considered dirty. It’s customary to remove them before entering someone’s home, certain shops, or even some restaurants and temples. This is not about religion but about their cultures which was passed from generation to generations.
Note: Many cultures considering removing shoes outside before entering someone’s room but is not the case these places. Watch what locals do. If there’s a pile of shoes at the entrance, that’s your cue to follow suit. Don’t rushed into someone home with you wearing your shoes.
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7. 🇰🇪 Show Respect for Elders in African Cultures
In many African societies—like the Maasai, Yoruba, or Zulu—greeting elders first and showing them deference is a deeply respected tradition. Ignoring this can be seen as impolite or even disrespectful. When visiting these African countries, know now that this is how you will do if you see elders.
Note: In Yoruba, you have to prostrate very well when greeting the elders. Learn a few local greetings and always acknowledge elders before engaging others in a group.
Final Thoughts to All These
In This world, You Have To Know That, Manners Matter Across Borders
Whether you’re backpacking across Europe or visiting a friend in Africa, understanding basic cultural etiquette can transform your experience. It’s not just about avoiding embarrassment—it’s also about showing respect, humility, and curiosity about the world around you and respecting other’s cultural heritage. Don’t underate others culture because what they do is strange to you.
By observing local customs and adapting where necessary, you not only become a better traveler but also a better global citizen.
Key Takeaways For Cultural Etiquette
Etiquette varies widely across cultures—what’s polite in one country may be rude in another.
Always research basic customs before visiting a new country.
Showing respect through small gestures—like using the right hand or taking off shoes—builds goodwill and stronger connections. Being culturally aware improves your safety, confidence, and credibility as a traveler.
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