It is extremely difficult to define any single culture. Often, the people who try to define it are outsiders, therefore, their interpretation may be inaccurate or incomplete. As well, it is difficult for natives to define their culture because they may not understand how they are seen by outsiders. For natives, everything in their culture seems normal, so they may not be able to identify their cultural aspects in the way an outsider would.

Considering this, the best we can do is simply be aware that there are significant cultural differences between cultures and subcultures. This is called cultural awareness. We should never assume that others think like us, see things as we do, view the world as we do, would make the same decisions we make, or interact with others in the ways that seem normal to us.

This article is a brief yet thorough introduction to cultural awareness. The concepts are well-researched. It is adapted for the general audience, particularly language learners.

This article was not intended to inform you about particular countries, but about cultural concepts, to prepare your mind to be open enough to face unknown situations in different cultures. By understanding these concepts, you are less likely to be offended or to offend others.

If you plan on visiting a foreign country, please do your own research. Most government websites and tourism/traveler’s websites want to help, so there will be plenty of current online articles about that country’s culture.

Culture is the way of life of a group of people. It includes their customs, traditions, beliefs and values. It includes things like language, art, music, food, clothing, celebrations, and social behaviors. Culture is what makes a group of people unique.

Culture shapes how people think, act, and communicate with others.

Examples of things that can be part of a culture:

• Food: The food that people eat, and how they eat it.

• Clothing: The clothes that people wear, and how they dress.

• Language: The language that people speak, and how they use it.

• Religion: The religion that people follow, and their beliefs.

• Family: The way that families are structured, and how they interact.

• Celebrations: The holidays, festivals, and special events that people celebrate.

• Art: The music, dance, literature, and other art forms that people create.

• Values: The things that people believe are important, such as honesty, respect, hard work, responsibility, family and community. On the other side might be things like money, materialism, power, loyalty, compliance of subordinates, and dominance of authority.

The overarching components of culture are: customs, traditions, beliefs, and values.

Let’s take a look at each.

Customs are the things that people do because they are expected to do them. They are the rules of how to behave in a particular culture. For example, in some cultures, it is customary to shake hands when you meet someone new. In other cultures, it is customary to bow.

Customs can be about many different things, such as:

• How to greet people: In some cultures, it is customary to kiss on the cheek. In other cultures, it is customary to shake hands.

• How to eat: In some cultures, people eat with their hands. In other cultures, it is customary to eat with utensils.

• How to dress: In some cultures, it is customary to cover your head when you go to a temple. In other cultures, you can wear shorts and a t-shirt.

• How to behave: In some cultures, it is customary to be very loud when you are in public. In other cultures, it is customary to be very quiet. As well, in some countries people must take off their shoes before entering a house, but in others, that is not necessary.

It is important to be aware of the customs of the culture you are in. If you do not follow the customs, you may offend people or make them uncomfortable.

Examples of customs

United States: It is customary to tip wait staff at restaurants as they are often paid a low hourly wage.

Canada: It is customary to remove one's shoes before entering someone's home.

Brazil: It is customary to greet others with hugs or kisses on the cheek.

Argentina: It is customary to have dinner quite late, often not starting until after 9 p.m.

Peru: It is customary for people to be late for appointments, meetings, or social events.

Egypt; It is customary to wear conservative clothing that covers the arms, legs, and chest, particularly for women.

Saudi Arabi: It is customary to greet others with "Salaam Aleikum" or "Peace be upon you".

Spain: It is customary to take a siesta or a mid-day nap to escape the mid-day heat.

Italy: It is customary to have a large, multi-course meal with family and friends on Sundays.

Japan: It is customary to exchange business cards at a business meeting.

India: It is customary to eat with one's right hand instead using of utensils.

Put another way, customs are how people expect us to act in social settings, and that is why we do them. Traditions, however, are the proper way to do things taught by one generation to the next generation. Celebrations and festivals are traditions in which we celebrate in the same way that our parents and grandparents did.

Customs are the expected social actions of nearly everyone in a group. However, traditions may actually be followed or practiced only by a small group of people.

For example, the tradition of the martial art of Judo, in Japan, is certainly only practiced and preserved by a small number of people compared to the whole of society.

Examples of traditions

Japan: The tea ceremony: The tea ceremony is a Japanese ritual that has been practiced for centuries. It is a formal and elegant way to prepare and serve tea. The ceremony is seen as a way to connect with nature and to appreciate the simple things in life.

The Tsuina Shinto ritual: The Japanese have ritual on the 49^th day after a person’s death. The ritual is a way to help the deceased's spirit move on to the afterlife. During the ritual, the family and friends of the deceased gather to pray and to offer food and drink to the deceased's spirit.

Taiwan: Sweet ball soup (tangyuan) at winter solstice, the longest day of winter: Sweet ball soup is balls of glutinous rice boiled in a sweet soup, to symbolize reunion and completeness. Their consumption ensures a smooth and peaceful new year. It is also served during weddings, moving into new homes,and the moving of deities to new temples.

Burning ghost money (spirit money): Taiwanese burn paper money for their deceased ancestors to ensure that the spirit of the deceased can purchase the things they need in the afterlife. It’s like a spiritual transfer of money. Many business owners also burn ghost money outside their premises on the first and 15th day of each lunar month to help make their business profitable.

Puppet Shows (budaixi). Hand puppets that are used in small outside theaters. Some have become popular TV shows.

USA: The Super Bowl: The super bowl is a popular sports game that happens once a year. All Americans have heard of it, and nearly half the nation participates in some kind of Super Bowl activity. It was the most watched show of all time in 2023.

Mexico: The Day of the Dead: The Day of the Dead is a Mexican holiday that is celebrated every year on November 1st and 2nd. The holiday is a celebration of the lives of loved ones who have passed away. People build altars to their loved ones and leave offerings of food, drink, and flowers. They also visit cemeteries to pray for their loved ones.

Brazil: Carnival, Rio de Janeiro: Carnival is a time to let loose and celebrate life. People from all over the world come to experience the vibrant energy of Carnival. The festivities kick off with a series of street parties. The streets are filled with people dressed in colorful costumes and dancing to samba music. There is a famous parade of floats, musicians, and dancers that perform at the Sambadrome. The parade lasts from late night to the early morning hours.

A person’s belief and value system come from many areas of life including family, religion, science, school, government, and social and other media outlets. Participating in any of these areas influences the way we think, feel, and view the world.

Beliefs and values are quite similar in meaning, and both have strong influences on each other. Since they are so intertwined, we will list them together in our examples below, but for overly simplistic definitions you can define them as below:

Beliefs (belief system): How we generally define life. How we determine what is right and wrong; what is acceptable and unacceptable. The things we believe to be true about the world, or even to believe that there is no truth.

Values: The things that are most important to us and how we rank them. Love, money, power, friendship, family, community and so on.

Some basic beliefs and values are: honesty, courage, loyalty, hard work, and kindness. But not all cultures actually hold to these values. Most parents across the globe teach their children that lying is bad. Nevertheless, in some cultures, lying and cheating my not be considered bad if no one gets hurt and the cheater doesn’t get caught.

Though many countries place a high value on family and relationships, there are others whose culture or subculture emphasizes materialism—the desire for money and all the things it can buy.

Below is a list of some more traditional values of different cultures across the globe.

Consider the following questions when thinking about how a culture might differ from your own:

• What values does this culture embrace? How do those values compare with those of your culture?

• How do people make decisions, conduct relationships, and display emotion?

• How does this culture treat time and scheduling?

• What are the social rules and boundaries surrounding gender?

• How does this culture display and respect power? Which authority figures are revered?

• How do individuals relate to their employers?

• How do people in this culture communicate? How direct are they in what they say and mean?

It is nearly impossible to completely define any culture. However, there are some characteristics we can learn about in order to keep an open mind when we experience a new culture. Understanding these characteristics helps us to ask ourselves the right questions about other cultures and to be more prepared to handle culture shock when we experience it.

Here are the characteristics we will examine: 

• Laws and Rules Priority  vs.   Relationships Priority
• Individual focused vs Society focused
• Personal life and Work life boundaries
• Merit/Wealth vs Membership
• Reserved vs Emotional
• Restrained vs Outgoing
• Task focused vs Objective focused
• Self-determined vs Fatalistic
• Authority acceptance vs Authority sharing

Remember, however, as we examine these characteristics, that they represent the extremes of cultural characteristics. Most people, countries and culture fall somewhere in between the extremes.

[these concepts rely on Hofstede and Trompenaars’ research, but some ideas have been combined and concepts renamed and generalized for language learning purposes]

Laws and Rules priority cultures: Some countries place laws and rules above relationships. This concept means that no one person is more important nor more special than another. If anyone of high authority or a family member breaks a rule or law, they should be held accountable the same as everyone else. Right is right, and wrong is wrong, and that is more important than relationships. People of this culture will be more likely to report a friend for breaking the law, even if it would damage their relationship. Relationships are still important, of course, but it doesn’t protect a person from making rule-breaking or criminal choices.

Relationships priority cultures: People in positions of authority or family members get special treatment over others. This happens in countries with high authority acceptance and tribal like family values. They are more likely to bend or break the rules if it is in the best interest of their relationships or if the situation requires it. The thinking would be that the rules don’t apply to their particular situation. Relationship priority can lead to greater flexibility and creativity in problem-solving, but can also lead to corruption and nepotism.

Priority Examples

Situation: A traffic violation. (break a traffic law)

• Laws and Rules priority: The police officer knows the driver but still gives him a ticket. She might say, please follow the traffic rules so I don’t have to give you another ticket someday.

• Relationship Priority: The police officer knows the driver so she doesn’t give him a ticket. Maybe she gives him a warning and sends him on his way.

Situation: A company has a policy that all employees must work overtime when needed.

• Laws and Rules priority: The boss’s son works for Mark. Mark makes the son work overtime like everyone else. He will probably let the boss know, as a matter of courtesy and respect, but he won’t treat his son differently than others. Generally, the boss will agree.

• Relationship Priority: The boss’s son works for Mark. Mark does not make the boss’s son work overtime. Mark gets special treatment.

Situation: Basic perception about all people.

• Laws and Rules priority: All people are equal either by nature, by God, or by the law.

• Relationship Priority: Family and friends are more important than other people.

Situation: A company uses child labor.

• Laws and Rules: A company would be more likely to refuse to do business with a company that was known for using child labor, even if the company was offering a good deal.

• Relationship Priority: A company would be more likely to do business with another company that was known for using child labor if the company was owned by family or close friend.

Situation: Tina is Mary’s mother and boss.

• Laws and Rules: Mary shows up late for work 3 times in a week. Tina docks her pay.

• Relationship Priority: Mary shows up late for work 3 times in a week. Tina shows leniency by letting her off the hook, even though other employees’ pay would have been docked.

Situation: Sarah is a friend of Frank. Frank is a government official.

• Laws and Rules: Sarah cheats on a government contract. Frank reports her to the authorities.

• Relationship priority: Sara cheats on a government contract. Frank knows, but ignores it.

In individual focused cultures, people believe that the individual is more important than society. They believe that people should be free to do what they want.

The idea behind the individual focus is that when all people work for their own good, it adds to the happiness of the whole society. It doesn’t mean that society is not important, it just means that happiness begins with the individual and moves outward towards society.

In society focused cultures, people believe that society is more important than the individual. They believe that people should sacrifice their own needs for the good of society.

For society-focused cultures, happiness begins with doing things for the group and because things are working well for the group, the individual will be happy.

• The USA is a good example of the individual-focused culture. People are free to do what they want and free to speak their own mind without punishment from superiors or government. Emphasis is placed on individual achievement. Only immediate family live together, and children move out on their own at a young age.

• Japan is a good example of a society-focused culture. They value group harmony and they believe that people should be loyal to their groups. They have a strong commitment to their families and communities. They will think more about how their actions impact the group. They will also feel more pressure to conform to group ideals.

In strong boundaries cultures, people tend to keep their personal and professional lives separate. This means that they may not talk about their personal lives with their colleagues, and they may not socialize with their colleagues outside of work. These kinds of cultures include Germany, the United States, and the United Kingdom.

In weak boundaries cultures, people tend to see their personal and professional lives as interconnected. This means that they may talk about their personal lives with their colleagues, and they may socialize with their colleagues outside of work. These cultures include Japan, China, and South Korea.

• In Germany, business and personal life are not connected, and work colleagues usually avoid talking about personal matters. They may also have separate phone numbers and email addresses for their personal and professional lives.

• In Japan, socializing with colleagues and clients is part of doing business. It is common for people to socialize with their colleagues outside of work. They may go to karaoke, restaurants, or even travel together.

• In the United States, it is more common for people to keep their personal and professional lives separate. They may not talk about their personal lives with their colleagues, and they may not socialize with their colleagues outside of work. Part of the reason is to avoid favoritism, or even the appearance of favoritism, in the workplace.

The level of respect , honor, and privilege that people give another person is called status. If a society values money, you will have a high-status if you are rich, and a low-status if you are poor. This is sometimes called “the social ladder.” A person high up on the social ladder has higher status and more privileges.

People can get their money in two ways. They can work hard for it—this is called merit, or they can be born into it—this is called inheritance. In some countries, like the USA, people have high status no matter where the money comes from.

There is another kind of high-status in some cultures that comes from simply belonging to a certain group of people—this is called membership. You can be a member of groups based on age, gender, political rank, political parties, or a caste system—as in India. In a caste system, you become a member of your social class by birth.

In merit cultures, people are given status based on their own work and achievements (merit). This means that they are respected for their accomplishments, such as their education, their job title, their athletic performance, celebrity status, or their wealth. Merit cultures include the United States, Canada, and Australia.

In membership cultures, people are given status based on their position in society. This means that they are respected for who they are, such as their gender, their age, or their social class. Membership cultures include India, China, and Japan.

• In the United States, people are often respected for their accomplishments. For example, a person who is a doctor or a lawyer is often given a lot of respect, regardless of their social class or their family background. The USA defines the social classes as: working class, middle class, and upper class.

• In India, people are often respected for the social class they were born into. For example, a person who is born into a high-caste family is often given a lot of respect, even if they do not have any accomplishments.

• In many Asian cultures, people are often respected for their age. For example, an older person is often given a lot of respect, even if they do not have any accomplishments.

In reserved cultures, people tend to keep their emotions under control. They may not show their emotions in public, and they may not talk about their emotions with others. Reserved cultures include Germany, the Netherlands, and the United States.

In emotional cultures, people tend to express their emotions more openly. They may show their emotions in public, and they may talk about their emotions with others. Emotional cultures include Italy, Spain, and Brazil.

• In Germany, it is considered rude to show your emotions in public. People may not smile or laugh loudly, and they may not talk about their personal problems with others.

• In Italy, it is common for people to express their emotions openly. People may smile and laugh loudly, and they may talk about their personal problems with others.

• In the United States, it is generally considered acceptable to express emotions in public, but it is not always appropriate. For example, it is not appropriate to cry at work or to get angry in public. A lot depends on the region, subculture, or work culture of an individual.

In restrained cultures, individuals feel the need to control their personal desires. They are less likely to participate in activities “just for the fun of it.” They are more likely to participate in activities that will help them develop their personal growth. They are more likely to focus on their responsibilities and duties. They are also more likely to be critical of others who pursue their desires too freely. As well, they tend to spend less in the present, and save their money for a better future.

In outgoing cultures, people express and pursue their desires openly. Although they will sometimes participate in personal development activities, they are more likely to do things “just for the fun of it. They will do things that they enjoy, even if they are not considered to be "productive" or "responsible." They are also more likely to tolerate others who pursue their desires differently from themselves. As well, they tend to spend their money more freely, and focus on having what they want today, rather than saving for tomorrow.

Outgoing: United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico

Restrained: China, India, Pakistan, Indonesia

Outgoing cultures, for a two-week vacation might:

• United States: People in the United States might plan to go on a vacation to a tropical island, go shopping for luxury goods, go out to eat at expensive restaurants, try an exciting activity like zip-lining, or visit an amusement park with giant roller coasters.

• Canada: People in Canada might plan to go on a camping trip, go skiing or snowboarding, or visit a national park.

• Brazil: People in Brazil might plan to go to the beach, go to a Carnival celebration, or visit the Amazon rainforest.

Restrained cultures, for two weeks of time-off might:

• Indonesia: People in Indonesia might plan to visit their family and friends, go to a temple or other religious site, or spend time studying.

• Iran: People in Iran might plan to visit a holy city, go on a pilgrimage, or spend time volunteering.

• Malaysia: People in Malaysia might plan to visit a historical site, go to a religious festival, or spend time with their family.

In self-determined cultures, people believe that they are in control of their own destinies. This means that they believe that they can achieve their goals through their own efforts.

Self-determined cultures include the United States, Canada, and Australia.

In fatalist cultures, people believe that their lives are controlled by external forces. This means that they believe that their success or failure is determined by factors outside of their control, such as luck or fate.

External control cultures include India, Japan, and South Korea.

• In the United States, people often believe that they can achieve anything they set their minds to. They may say things like, "I'm the master of my own destiny" or "I make my own luck." They are more likely to keep going in the face of failure.

• In India, some people believe that their lives are controlled by fate. They may say something like, "It's not my fault." They may accept failure and give up too easily. This can lead to a lack of vision for the future. They may be less likely to come up with new ideas or to take risks.
  
  

In authority acceptance culture, people willingly accept authority as the natural structure of a society. There is a clear order of power and a clear ranking system. People usually follow the decisions of people in authority, even if they disagree. They rarely speak their own minds in a meeting. As well, they often say what they think the boss wants to hear rather than their true opinion.

In authority sharing societies, people still respect authority, however, people believe that everyone should have a say in how things are done. They believe that everyone is equal, and that no one deserves special treatment because of their position. They are more likely to speak up in meetings and give their true opinions.

• In China, there is a high level of authority acceptance. This is because Chinese culture has a long history of Confucianism, which teaches that people should respect their elders and those in positions of authority.

• In the United States, people expect more authority sharing. This is because American culture has a strong emphasis on individualism, which means that people believe that they should be able to make their own decisions. They might choose not to follow authority, or they might follow, but speak their mind if they disagree.

• In Mexico, it is common for people to address people of higher rank by their title, even in informal settings. This shows respect for authority.

• In Norway, it is more common for people to address their superiors by their first name, even in formal settings. This shows that everyone is equal in society.

Authority acceptance: Brazil, France, Germany, Indonesia, Iran, Japan, Malaysia, Peru, South Korea, Thailand

Authority sharing: Australia, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Israel, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden

France: In France, it is common to greet people with a kiss on the cheek. The number of kisses varies depending on the region, but it is typically two or three. For example, you might greet a friend with "Bonjour, ma chérie" and then kiss them on both cheeks.

Thailand: In Thailand, the traditional greeting is called a "wai." To perform a wai, you place your hands together in a prayer-like gesture and bow your head slightly. The depth of the bow depends on the status of the person you are greeting. For example, you might greet a monk with a deep wai, while you might greet a friend with a shallower wai.

Japan: In Japan, the most common greeting is a bow. The depth of the bow depends on the status of the person you are greeting. For example, you might bow deeply to your boss, while you might bow more shallowly to a friend. In addition, men and women greet each other differently in Japan. Men typically shake hands with other men, while women typically bow to other women.

Argentina: In Argentina, men typically greet other men with a handshake, while women typically greet other women with a kiss on the cheek. If a man greets a woman with a kiss on the cheek, it is considered to be a sign of affection.

Mexico: Formal: Handshake. Informal: Handshake or hug. The younger person usually offers the greeting first.

Gender Issues in Greetings

Saudi Arabia: In Saudi Arabian culture, it is customary for men to refrain from physical contact such as shaking hands with women unless the woman initiates it. Instead, a respectful nod or placing the hand over the heart is a common greeting gesture.

United Arab Emirates: Similar to Saudi Arabia, it is considered polite for men to wait for a woman to extend her hand for a handshake before reciprocating. Otherwise, a nod or a slight bow can be used as a greeting.

Iran: In Iran, men should exercise caution when initiating physical contact with women. Handshakes are generally reserved for formal or professional settings, and it is advisable to wait for the woman to extend her hand first.

USA: Punctuality is important in the USA. In business, people are expected to be on time for appointments and meetings. For casual settings, like lunch dates or dinners, it is acceptable to be a little late. However, being consistently late can be seen as disrespectful, so it is important to make an effort to be on time as much as possible.

• If you have a business meeting, you should aim to arrive 5-10 minutes early.

• If you have a doctor's appointment, you should aim to arrive 10-15 minutes early.

• If you have a lunch date with friends, you should aim to arrive 5-10 minutes late.

• If you have a dinner date with your family, you should aim to arrive on time or a few minutes late.

Germany: Punctuality is very important in Germany. People are expected to be on time for appointments and meetings, even if it means arriving early.

     If you are invited to a dinner party, you should arrive on time.

Japan: Punctuality is also very important in Japan. People are expected to be on time for appointments and meetings, even if it means arriving early.

      If you have a business meeting, you should arrive at least 15 minutes early. Arriving late would be considered rude and disrespectful to your colleagues.

Brazil: Punctuality is not as important in Brazil as it is in other countries. People are often late for appointments and meetings, but this is not considered rude. It is not uncommon for people to arrive 30 minutes or even an hour late for a meeting.

      If you have a doctor's appointment, you should arrive 15-30 minutes late.

Spain: Punctuality is not as important in Spain as it is in other countries. People are often late for appointments and meetings, but this is not considered rude. It is not uncommon for people to arrive 30 minutes or even an hour late for a meeting.

      If you have a lunch date with friends, you should arrive 15-30 minutes late.

Italy: Punctuality is not as important in Italy as it is in other countries. People are often late for appointments and meetings, but this is not considered rude. It is not uncommon for people to arrive 30 minutes or even an hour late for a meeting.

      If you have a dinner date with your family, you should arrive 30-60 minutes late.

Personal space is the distance between you and another person. Cultural customs can affect how much personal space someone prefers.

For example, in the United States, friends and family usually keep a distance of about an arm's length with outstretched fingers. Strangers and business associates are kept at a greater distance if possible. This also applies to some European countries.

Personal space preferences in Saudi Arabia are different; people there tend to stand close to each other, even if they don't know each other. Chinese and other Asian people are also used to less personal space than Westerners. It's important to understand these differences in personal space, as not doing so could be seen as disrespectful or intrusive.

In Middle Eastern countries, it is important to be modest and conservative in dress, with clothing that covers the arms and legs, and neckline for both men and women. There is a wide range of dress expectations, with places like Dubai being more modern. When it comes to the Middle East, don’t guess! Do you research to be sure what you can wear.

Casual Wear

Research seems to show that most countries accept jeans and t-shirts as acceptable casual clothing. In the tropical and subtropical areas, shorts and t-shirts are acceptable as well.

Examples of Business Dress Code

United States: In the United States, the business/work dress code varies depending on the industry and the company. In general, a suit and tie is still the standard attire for men, but there is more flexibility for women. A tie is a must, unless your company tells you it’s not required.

Mexico: In Mexico, the business/work dress code is more relaxed than in the USA. For men, a button-down shirt and slacks are usually sufficient. For women, a skirt or dress pants are typically appropriate.

Colombia: In Colombia, the business/work dress code is generally more conservative than in other countries in South America. For men, a suit and tie is usually the standard attire. For women, a skirt or dress suit is typically appropriate.

Brazil: In Brazil, the business/work dress code is more relaxed than in Argentina. For men, a button-down shirt and slacks are usually sufficient. For women, a skirt or dress pants are typically appropriate.

United Kingdom: In the United Kingdom, the business/work dress code is generally more formal than in other countries in Europe. For men, a suit and tie is usually the standard attire. For women, a skirt or dress suit is typically appropriate.

Italy: In Italy, the business/work dress code is more relaxed. For men, a button-down shirt and slacks are usually sufficient. For women, a skirt or dress pants are typically appropriate.

Japan: In Japan, the business/work dress code is generally more formal than in other countries in Asia. For men, a suit and tie is usually the standard attire. For women, a skirt or dress suit is typically appropriate.

India: In India, the business/work dress code varies depending on the industry and the company. In general, a suit and tie is still the standard attire for men, but there is more flexibility for women.

South Africa: In South Africa, the business/work dress code varies depending on the industry and the company. In general, a suit and tie is still the standard attire for men, but there is more flexibility for women.

Nigeria: In Nigeria, the business/work dress code is more relaxed than in Kenya. For men, a button-down shirt and slacks are usually sufficient. For women, a skirt or dress pants are typically appropriate.

Japan: Blowing your nose in public is considered impolite and unhygienic. It is generally expected to use a handkerchief or tissues discreetly. Excuse yourself and go to the restroom if you must.

India: Eating with your left hand is considered unclean and disrespectful. The right hand is used for eating and social interactions.

Mexico: Touching or patting someone's head is seen as disrespectful, as the head is considered sacred and sensitive.

Russia: It is considered rude to whistle indoors. Whistling is associated with calling spirits or bad luck, so it's best to avoid it in enclosed spaces.

Brazil: Using your index finger to beckon someone is considered impolite. Instead, use your whole hand or motion with the palm facing down.

South Korea: Refusing an alcoholic drink offered by an elder or superior can be seen as disrespectful. It is generally expected to accept the drink graciously.

France: Eating bread without first placing it on a plate is considered impolite. Bread should not be directly placed on the tablecloth.

Turkey: Showing the soles of your feet or shoes to someone is seen as offensive. It is best to keep your feet on the ground or crossed at the ankles.

Thailand: Criticizing or speaking ill of the royal family is considered highly disrespectful and can result in severe consequences.

Italy: Drinking a cappuccino or any coffee with milk after breakfast or mid-morning is generally considered unusual. Italians prefer to drink milky coffee only in the morning.

South Korea: Writing someone's name in red ink is considered offensive as it is associated with death or marking someone for negative outcomes. It's best to avoid using red ink for names or important documents.

China: Tapping chopsticks on a bowl is considered impolite as it resembles a gesture made at funerals to attract the attention of spirits.

Australia: Sitting in the front passenger seat of a taxi without permission is generally seen as impolite, as it is often reserved for older or disabled passengers.

Germany: Whistling in public, especially indoors, is believed to bring bad luck according to German folklore.

Argentina: Cutting food with a knife and fork in a crossed manner is considered impolite and can be seen as a sign of disrespect.

Thailand: Pointing at or touching someone's head, even in a friendly gesture, is considered extremely impolite as the head is considered sacred.

Sweden: Not taking off your shoes when entering someone's home, especially during winter, is considered impolite and can be seen as disrespecting cleanliness.

Greece: Making the "OK" hand gesture (forming a circle with your thumb and index finger) is considered offensive and vulgar in Greece.

Vietnam: Showing public displays of affection, such as kissing or hugging, is generally frowned upon and considered inappropriate in traditional Vietnamese culture.

Brazil: Pointing with your index finger is considered impolite and may be seen as an aggressive gesture. It's best to point with an open hand or use a nod of the head.

France: Talking loudly in public spaces, such as restaurants or public transportation, is generally seen as impolite and inconsiderate.

Japan: In Japan, it is generally considered taboo to leave the office before your boss. It is often expected that employees stay longer to show dedication and commitment to their work.

Germany: In Germany, it is important not to interrupt or speak out of turn during meetings. Respect for hierarchy and allowing each person to speak without interruption is valued.

United States: In the United States, it is generally considered inappropriate to ask personal questions related to age, marital status, or income during professional interactions. These topics are considered private.

France: In France, it is important to avoid discussing salary openly or asking colleagues about their income. Such discussions are considered private and may be seen as intrusive.

Brazil: In Brazil, it is considered disrespectful to address someone older or in a higher position without the appropriate honorific title. Using titles like "Senhor" or "Senhora" followed by the last name is customary.

South Korea: In South Korea, it is generally expected to accept business cards with both hands and take a moment to read the details before putting them away. This shows respect for the individual and their position.

China: In China, it is important to avoid pointing directly at someone with your finger. Instead, use an open hand or a nod of the head to indicate or call someone over.

Saudi Arabia: In Saudi Arabia, it is important to dress modestly and adhere to Islamic customs. Women should cover their hair and wear loose-fitting clothing, and men should avoid wearing shorts or sleeveless shirts.

Australia: In Australia, it is generally considered inappropriate to arrive late for meetings or appointments. Punctuality is valued, and it is best to inform colleagues in advance if there is a delay.

India: In India, it is important to avoid eating beef or pork during work-related events, as these meats are considered taboo in certain religious and cultural contexts.

Mexico: In Mexico, it is generally considered impolite to address someone by their first name immediately upon meeting. It is customary to use formal titles such as "Señor" or "Señora" followed by their last name until a closer relationship is established.

Sweden: In Sweden, it is generally expected to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to colleagues or touching them during professional interactions. Personal boundaries are valued.

Nigeria: In Nigeria, it is generally considered disrespectful to address someone older or in a higher position by their first name. Using appropriate titles like "Sir" or "Madam" followed by their last name is customary.

United Arab Emirates: In the United Arab Emirates, it is important to avoid scheduling meetings or events on Fridays, as it is the Islamic day of prayer and rest.

Canada: In Canada, it is generally considered inappropriate to engage in discussions related to politics, religion, or sensitive social issues in the workplace. It is best to maintain a respectful and neutral environment.

Japan: Greeting your boss and colleagues with a polite "ohayou gozaimasu" (good morning) or "konnichiwa" (good afternoon) each day is considered respectful in Japanese workplaces.

France: Offering to share your lunch with co-workers or inviting them to join you for lunch is a common practice, fostering camaraderie and social connections.

United States: Demonstrating good table manners, such as chewing with your mouth closed and using utensils properly, is expected during team lunches or office gatherings.

Germany: Pushing your chair under your desk or table when not sitting is considered a simple act of tidiness and respect for the workspace.

Brazil: Inviting your boss to join you for lunch once a week or on special occasions can be seen as a gesture of appreciation and building a stronger professional relationship.

South Korea: Offering assistance to colleagues, especially to those who may be overwhelmed with tasks, is highly valued as a display of teamwork and support.

Japan: Exchanging business cards with a respectful bow and using both hands to receive and offer them is considered proper etiquette in Japanese business settings.

Mexico: Respecting personal space and keeping an appropriate distance from colleagues during conversations or gatherings is considered polite and respectful.

Sweden: Taking regular breaks during the workday, such as coffee breaks or short walks, to recharge and maintain productivity is encouraged in Swedish workplaces.

Australia: Demonstrating a positive and friendly attitude by greeting colleagues with a smile and a "good morning" contributes to a pleasant and inclusive work environment.

India: Seeking feedback and guidance from more experienced colleagues or supervisors is considered a proactive and valuable practice for professional growth.

Canada: Taking responsibility for your actions and admitting mistakes when they occur is highly regarded in Canadian workplaces, as it shows accountability and integrity.

UAE: Taking the time to inquire about the well-being of colleagues, both professionally and personally, is seen as a way to foster a caring and supportive work environment.

Singapore: Keeping a clean and organized workspace by regularly tidying up your desk and filing documents appropriately demonstrates professionalism and efficiency.

Spain: Engaging in small talk and building personal relationships with colleagues is important in Spanish workplaces.

Italy: Observing proper dress code and maintaining a professional appearance is highly valued in Italian workplaces.

Thailand: Respecting authority and seniority by using appropriate titles when addressing supervisors or older colleagues is considered essential in Thai workplaces.

Mexico: Demonstrating warmth and establishing personal connections by greeting colleagues with a handshake or a hug is common in Mexican workplaces.

Singapore: Being punctual and respecting deadlines is a key practice in Singaporean workplaces. Time management and honoring commitments are highly valued.

Egypt: Offering hospitality and sharing meals or snacks with colleagues, especially during breaks or religious occasions, is customary in Egyptian workplaces, promoting a sense of unity and camaraderie.

The Dragon Boat Festival is a traditional Chinese festival that is celebrated in Taiwan and other parts of East Asia. The festival commemorates the death of Qu Yuan, a poet who drowned himself in the Miluo River in 278 BC to protest against government corruption.

The festival is celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, which falls in June or July in the Gregorian calendar. The festival is a time for people to gather together to race dragon boats, eat zongzi (sticky rice dumplings), and enjoy other festivities.

The dragon boat races are the most popular event of the festival. The races are held on rivers and lakes, and each team consists of 20 to 30 paddlers. The boats are decorated with colorful dragons' heads and tails, and the paddlers compete to see who can cross the finish line first.

Eating zongzi: Zongzi are a type of sticky rice dumpling that is filled with pork, mushrooms, and other ingredients all wrapped in bamboo leaves. They are traditionally eaten during the Dragon Boat Festival to commemorate the death of Qu Yuan.