For your edification, dear readers, I humbly submit the following international list of faux pas. Take heed, lest you wind up talking to the wrong end of an automatic rifle as their headman's daughter sobs in the corner.
And if you're somewhere other than the South Bronx, it could be even worse.
From the good people at wikipedia:
- Nicaragua - Calling someone a "cochón"(homosexual), when you really want to buy a "colchón" (mattress).
- Brazil - Flashing the American "OK" gesture is considered inappropriate because in Brazil that gesture refers to the anus. [Done in the wrong bar, it might be considered an invitation.]
- Portugal - Asking an unfamiliar woman for her age. [Because it's considered polite everywhere else.]
- Italy - Wearing white socks is seen as a sign of weakness or of being a "mamma's boy".
- New Zealand - When asked to "bring a plate" to an event such as a party, bring a plate of food and not just a plate.
- Australia - When asked to "bring a plate" to an event such as a party, bring a plate of food and not just a plate. [Apparently this is quite the problem Down Under. And in case you think I'm pulling your leg, here's a link.]
- Philippines - Hide if you want some alone time. Refusing to socialize with anyone, especially if invited, could be considered offensive.
- Arabia - Throughout most of the Middle East the left hand is reserved for bodily hygiene and considered unclean. Thus, the right hand should be used for eating. Shaking hands with one's left hand is considered an insult.
- United States - In most business settings, physical contact should be limited to a handshake at the beginning and end of the meeting. Any unsolicited contact may be responded to with litigation against both the offending party and any business. [Don't I know it.]
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