8 unspoken cultural rules 👀

Anna Allgaier

Even in your own culture, it can be difficult to navigate unspoken social rules. To tip or not to tip? Do I shake their hand or go for a hug? Will they look at me like I’m a sadist if I answer honestly when asked “how are you?”

Now add in the expat layer. If you’ve relocated and are calling a new country home, there’s a lot to do. Learn the language, find a job, make sure you can pay and get paid like a local (did you like my Wise plug?), and readjust to the culture.

I’ve lived abroad a couple of times and made a fool out of myself on multiple occasions. I’d like to save you from doing the same. So here are a few unspoken cultural rules to pop in your mental bank.

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1) Oh, it’s your birthday is it? Tough.

In Estonia it’s customary that you bring in your own cake to work/school/wherever. I lived in Germany and the same applies there. To be honest, I expect to be showered with love, attention and gifts on my Birthday so not a fan of this one.

2) Loved the service? Want to leave a tip? HOW DARE YOU 😲

In Japan you don’t tip. If you want to, they’ll probably reject it. Nobody likes rejection. Also, while we’re taking a look at Japan, take your shoes off when you enter somebody's house and NEVER yawn in public.

3) KISS KISS KISS

In the Netherlands it’s normal to say hello, and goodbye, with three kisses on the cheek. So please invest in lip balm.

4) Staring is caring

In Germany, we love to stare. It just isn’t considered rude or creepy. It’s curiosity. Also, expect eye contact, and lot’s of it.

5) Seasoned with bad luck

In Lebanon it’s bad luck to spill salt and do nothing about it. Chuck it over your left and right shoulder, and for goodness sake, never pass the salt at a table.

6) Long live queuing

In England, you either respect the queue or get tutted into oblivion. There is no excuse for jumping the queue. About to miss your flight and need to hop through security? Nobody cares.

7) It’s sweaty business

In Finland, it's perfectly normal to have a business meeting in a sauna. So schedule your next feedback session in a sweat box.

8) Pour it up

In Korea, you have to pour drinks for the elders at the table. So no downing Jägermeister before Granny’s had hers.


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