Travelling abroad is an ideal way to discover new cultures and find out more about yourself – and others.

Just don’t make a fool of yourself by doing the following things.

Don’t talk with your hands in your pockets in Germany

Don’t talk with your hands in your pockets in Germany
Wikimedia

It’s considered bad manners. It’s also customary to keep your hands on the table while you’re eating.

Don’t tip in Japan

Don’t tip in Japan
Public Domain Pictures

Service at restaurants and hotels will likely be exceptional in Japan, but tipping isn’t done; and it could be seen as degrading.

Don’t smile at strangers in Russia

Don’t smile at strangers in Russia
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They’ll see it as an intimate gesture, indicating a genuine affinity toward another person.

If you don’t know them, they might consider you insincere.

Don’t use your left hand in India

Don’t use your left hand in India
Pxhere

The left hand is thought of as unclean in Indian culture, so always use your right hand to greet someone, exchange money, or pick up merchandise.

Don’t wave your chopsticks around in China

Don’t wave your chopsticks around in China
Wikipedia

It’s like drumming with your knife and fork. Best not.

Don’t honk in Norway

Don’t honk in Norway
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It’s only used in an emergency – so your unnecessary beeping could cause drivers to panic.

Don’t forget to say hello in France

Don’t forget to say hello in France
Pexels

“Bonjour madame, monsieur” should be the first words out of your mouth, otherwise you’re subtly showing you feel the person is beneath you.

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