No tipping in Japan, use your right hand more in India – 7 important customs to follow when traveling

▲Cultures differ widely around the world – did you know it’s better to avoid using your left hand in India?! Pictured is India’s Holi Festival. (Photo / from Wikipedia)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

Cultural norms and daily habits vary greatly from country to country. What we consider perfectly normal might be seen as rude elsewhere. The renowned American magazineReader’s Digesthas listed seven country-specific customs, reminding all globe-trotting travelers: “Don’t do this!”

Japan: There’s no tipping culture.In Japan, aside from enjoying beautiful scenery and delicious food, thoughtful and attentive service is also one of the highlights of travel. But unlike in Western countries, tipping after receiving service is not customary. Therefore, leaving a tip at hotels or restaurants might actually seem strange.

Russia: Don’t smile at strangers.A slight smile can make you appear friendly, but in the eyes of Russians, you might come across as insincere, because they believe smiling is an intimate gesture reserved for family or loved ones.

India: Use your right hand as much as possible.Indians consider the left hand unclean, so whether you’re eating, shopping, carrying luggage... and so on, it’s best to use your right hand.

China: Don’t finish all the food on your plate.Finishing every last bit of food on your plate is generally considered good manners, but in China, if you eat everything in your bowl, it may seem like you’re saying “I’m still hungry.” So leaving a little bit in your bowl actually signals that “I’ve had enough.”

Norway: Don’t honk your horn casually.In Norway, honking the horn usually indicates an emergency (like an ambulance), so if you’re not in a real rush, it’s best not to honk.

France: Always say “hello” first.Whether you’re asking for directions, shopping, or in any other situation, don’t forget to start with a “hello” or a greeting. Otherwise, the French might think you’re being rude.

Germany: Don’t keep your hands in your pockets while talking.Chatting with your hands in your pockets might bother Germans and be seen as impolite. Also, it’s better to keep your hands on the table rather than on your lap while eating.