Being Polite from Culture to Culture
Most people want to be polite and behave well around others. Being polite means knowing how to greet and talk to people. It means using good manner when eating. It means knowing how to give and receive gifts appropriately. Polite behavior in one count, however, may be impolite in another part of the world. Travelers need to understand the culture differences in politeness so that they don’t cause embarrassment.
For instance, when people meet, they often shake hands. In the United State, people prefer to shake hands firmly for a few seconds. In some Middle Eastern countries, people hold the person’s hand gently for a longer time. Handshaking varies around the world.
Around the world cultures have different about giving gifts. In the United State, someone gives you a gift; you should open it while they are with you. That way they can see how happy you are to receive it. In China, you should open a gift after the person is gone.
Another cultural difference is time. In Germany, it is important to arrive on time. In Argentina, polite dinner guests usually come 30 -60 minutes after the time of the invitation. When travelling, remember that each country has a different definition of being on time.
If you are going to live, work, or study in another country, it is important to learn the language. But it is also important to learn about cultural differences. This way, you can be polite and make a good impression. People around you will fell comfortable respected. Politeness and good manners can be good for making friends, good for travelling, and good for business, too.