Every country around the world has different culture lead to different traditions, customs, habits, and behavior. Sometimes, behavior we consider polite and acceptable in our culture are seen rude in another country due to different culture and vice versa. Hence, it is necessary to do your homework before visiting a country with totally different culture. Hence, you know how to behave during your adventure there. You won’t intentionally offend the locals while enjoying your time to the fullest.
Rude behaviors consider acceptable when travelling abroad
Asking personal questions in Asian countries such as Japan is not considered offensive. It is acceptable to ask questions about married status, relationship, or how much they make in Japan. Meanwhile, in western countries those questions are considered rude or impolite. Sometimes, it can be offensive. If you travel to Japan and a new acquaintance ask you personal questions, you can answer them if comfortable. If you are not, navigate the question subtly to another subject.
Slurping noodle dish in South Korea or Japan is not considered rude. In fact, people there show how they enjoy their noodle by slurping loudly. Both men and women slurp their noodle loudly and no one bat an eye on it. In fact, the chef might get offended if you eat your noodles quietly, thinking you are not enjoying the meal they made. Also, you can drink the soup of your noodle dish from the bowl directly without using the spoon.
In China, spitting in public is not considered rude behavior. It is like normal habit for everyone. Do not get surprised if you are wandering in China and see people spit in public without remorse. However, the government of China has made some attempts to their people to change this behavior. It is because people in other countries receive Chinese tourists negatively with this behavior.
Riding in the front seat of the taxi is not rude in New Zealand And Australia. Meanwhile, taxi drivers in New York often get offensive if passengers ride in the front seat. In new Zealand and Australia is the opposite. The taxi drivers feel offended if the passenger choose the back seat to ride if you are the only traveler.
Topless sunbathe in Austria is not offensive behavior. In fact, 49 percent of women in Austria feel more comfortable to sunbathe with their top bare. Meanwhile, in most of the countries, topless sunbathe is considered indecent and can get attention or even warning. In Austria, you can sunbathe at the beach or pool without anything to cover your top.
In India, eating with your hands is more acceptable than using silverware. Therefore, you can just leave your silverware and start digging your favorite foods with your bare hand (of course after washing it thoroughly). However, keep in mind to eat or pass foods using your right hands only. Left hand is considered dirty because it is reserved only for doing less hygienic tasks. Eating with right hand is also applied in middle east countries.
