What foreign traditions or customs shocked you?
By joizee
@joizee (502)
Philippines
April 26, 2013 5:19pm CST
When we visit another country, we prepare everything. From money, clothes, itinerary, and even languages. We practice to know some useful words in asking directions, prices or asking discounts and greeting/salutations. And we don't stop with the language, we also try to research and practice the important customs in the country we're going to visit. Why? Because we respect other people's culture and traditions. And since we're the kids on the block, we are the ones expected to learn the ropes. Sometimes it feels awkward, uncomfortable and we don't understand the philosophy to do it.
Has there been a custom or tradition that surprised you? What was it? How did you react?
Thanks and have a happy weekend! :D
2 responses
@pltacipayung (12)
• Indonesia
27 Apr 13
im from indonesia, in my country lots of tradition will make you shocked which one is debus from banten province! you got to see by yourself and visiting indonesia!
1 person likes this
will definitely let you know before coming to your beautiful country. Thanks for responding :)
@dagami (1158)
• Rome, Italy
26 Apr 13
in italy, people who burp, are considered ill mannered. in asia, this is considered normal after a hearty meal. i have korean friends and they told me that this is a sign of appreciation for the cook.
blowing the nose even during meals is normal here. in asia, this is strongly frowned upon, even considered a sign of bad manners by some people.
1 person likes this
@joizee (502)
• Philippines
27 Apr 13
Hi Dagami! I agree with the burping as a sign of gratitude to the cook and to express satisfaction from eating. In the Philippines, we follow a burp with "excuse me" or "thank you". With the blowing of nose, I think because the food might get dirty if you blow over them and people might feel sick upon eating. Thanks for sharing Dagami! Have a good day 
