12 Things You Should Never Do in Other Countries( courtecy;-reader’s digest )

Rude! 12 Things You Should Never Do in Other Countries

BY TAYLOR SHEA

Planning a trip abroad? Memorize these rules to avoid offending the locals.

Don't tip in Japan

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Service at restaurants and hotels will likely be exceptional in Japan, but tipping isn't done; and it could be seen as degrading. Here's exactly how much to tip while at home in the states.

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. These are the 18 cliche travel photos every tourist secretly wants to take.

Don't use your left hand in India

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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 eat everything on your plate in China

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That shows your host didn't provide enough food or a filling meal. Along with leaving a little, it's fine to burp after eating, as a compliment to the chef. Here's why you'll never find Chinese takeout boxes in China.

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

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

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

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It's considered rude. It's also customary to keep your hands on the table while eating, rather than resting them in your lap. These are the 50 little etiquette rules you should always practice.

Don't sit in the back seat of a cab in Ireland

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There are actually a few countries—Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, and Scotland—where this goes against the rules of egalitarianism. Ride shotgun instead. It's the polite thing to do.

Don't call the United States "America" in South America

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To call the United States "America" in South America implies that only the United States are worthy of the title "America." South America is an America too. These are the 10 places you need to go in 2018, according to travel experts.

Don't open a gift immediately in India

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There's a bit of unchartered territory around this one in the United States too. If your boss gives you a random gift from a business trip, should you open it then and there, or wait? It's not always clear. But if you're in India, you'll want to refrain; opening a present on the spot is considered greedy. 

Don't ask, "What do you do?" in the Netherlands

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Doing so can appear classist in this country, especially since it has a broad social-welfare system. Try a different ice-breaker instead.

Don't blow your nose in public in France

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It's considered repulsive. Instead, excuse yourself as if you're going to the restroom. Countries such as China, Japan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey will also thank you for this one. These are the 10 house-guest etiquette rules you'll want to follow all the time.