Israel is a very Westernized country, therefore, it wouldn't be hard for you to go around and fit in. Aside from Hebrew and Arabic languages, English is also commonly used in signs and conversations since it is used and taught in schools.
It is a very accommodating country to travel to because there are not too much unusual etiquettes except for some religion-related practices. When planning to stay for a while in Israel or anticipating dealing with people, you should only be aware of the common practices of the people. Most of these practices, if not all, are rooted to Judaism.
There are many individuals, especially within the city, who do not follow the kosher (certain rules sanctioned by Judaism about food and its preparation). However, unless the person tells you so or doesn't make it so obvious, just assume that he/she keeps kosher. It will be helpful for you to know some kosher rules so that you do not upset others or embarrass yourself in the table. Some of the kosher rules are:
a. Some animals and sea foods like pigs, badgers, lobsters, crabs, clams, and shrimps are not permitted.
b. Meat should totally be eaten separately from milk and any dairy products. You can't even eat meat then eat dairy products after a while, nor use one spoon for both meat and milk.
c. Fruits and vegetables are all kosher foods unless they got bugs in them.
Another important thing to bear in mind is the dress code. When casually taking a tour around the city, just wear any clothes you are comfortable with. Just be extra conservative when going into synagogues by keeping your legs and arms covered.
Greet people and say goodbye with a handshake. However, religious people wouldn't allow men to have a handshake with the women, not even touching them in the smallest ways.
Egypt has a lot to offer for tourists from its natural beauty to its man-made structures. In having a tour in Egypt however, one should consider many things when it comes to manners or etiquettes. Many Egyptians are Muslims and they religiously abide in rules and standards of conduct.
The very first thing you will need to know is the dress code in Egypt. Except for the pool areas and beaches, you cannot go out, for girls, exposing your knees and thighs to the public.
Since Egyptians are generally conservative, do not engage in public display of affection such as kissing and embracing. Do not come too close with the members of the opposite sex but don't inch away when they happened to stand close to you.
In Egypt, they don't use their left hands in eating, shaking hands or handing things.
The palm facing the person means warding away evil spirits; therefore it can be very offensive to them.
When invited to their home, bring some sweets for a present. Don't bring wine unless you are sure that somebody in the family drinks. Muslims don't often drink wine or any alcoholic drinks. Remove your shoes before entering a house and don't sit in the chair cross-legged.
Never give your hosts flowers. These gifts are only for weddings, funerals and for sick people. Small gadgets like compasses are really good gifts since Muslims will need them in indicating the direction to Mecca when doing their prayers.
Do not refuse the drinks offered to you although you have no intention in drinking them, that will be very impolite. Also ask for second helpings when eating to compliment the host for the food.
As China becomes more open to tourists and international businesses, it becomes more convenient to travel and stay there, whether for some official or simply recreational purposes. It's easy to survive and get along with people in China since most of the Western customs are just similar to their culture. But, there are just some variations in culture that a tourist should know in order to cope well with the Chinese culture.
There are practices that sprouted from their beliefs and are therefore important to be respectfully observed. There are also things unique to the Chinese culture that are not necessarily strictly followed but will help you a lot to get along with people very well.
Always remember these impolite gestures so that you don't them in China.
a. Pointing with your finger (use your whole hand in pointing directions instead)
b. Snapping your fingers
c. whistling
d. kissing or hugging when greeting people ,unless you are very close to the person (shake hands instead)
e. using only one hand when receiving gifts or business cards, use both hands instead so that you are not mistaken to be rude and impolite
f. keeping away the card immediately after receiving it, take some moments to read the card instead to show interest in the card and the person.
Thailand is indeed a beautiful place. The people are friendly and the cost of living is very affordable. You can definitely go around and suit yourself with the variety of amusement and services they offer. But don't forget that Thailand has some strict social rules that everybody should respect. To help you enjoy as much as possible without getting yourself into trouble, here are some helpful reminders about Thailand's social rules.
1. The first thing that you have to bear in mind is taking off your shoes when entering a temple or a house.
2. Never point things or direction with your feet. This is very rude and impolite. You may get into a fight just by giving your hands some rest and using your feet instead.
3. Never touch somebody else's head. This is also a sign of disrespect or belittling the person.
4. Respect the people's religion. Do not laugh, not even smile, when you see people doing some unusual religious gestures. You may not know which is religious sometimes so you'd better watch out.
5. Don't talk about the Royal family, especially the king. Thais revere their king so much that will be very offended when you comment on him. Don't even joke about him nor speak anything about him. You may say something that will upset them.
6. Thai culture is very conservative. Don't wear provocative clothes and keep your flesh private no matter how the weather becomes. You may wear less conservative clothes in the beaches where rules and expectations are so much less and free.
7. Don't raise your voice and always be calm. Thais don't normally go mad and shout when they're upset. As much as possible, keep your anger to yourself and try to talk things out smoothly.
When you familiarize yourself with these rules, you may keep them and enjoy your vacation.
Japan is one of the countries you would want to visit for a vacation because of its many contribution in technology, good discipline among citizens, impressive infrastructures and beautiful views to visit. Before going to Japan, a traveler should just take note of some reminders to avoid troubles and make much of the trip.
First, consider learning some survival Nihongo, Japan's official language, such as:
"Ohayo" for "good morning"
"Konnichiwa" for "good afternoon"
"Konbanwa" for" good evening"
"Sayonara" for "good bye"
"Hajimemashite Dozo Yoroshiku" for "How are you and please to meet you"
Second, take some gift items with you. Gifts are given much importance in Japanese culture. These are signs of friendship and politeness. When giving gifts, make sure that presents are wrapped very well in special wraps. Don't give surprise gifts. It will be more polite to inform your hosts, friends or business partners that you will be giving them presents in advance.
When you go out to eat, never pour your own wine or drinks by yourself. In Japanese culture, the person nearest to you will be the one to pour your drinks in your glass and you do the same to him/her.
When you are invited to a home, this means that you are considered as a close friend already. Always remember to bring presents with you. And most importantly, leave your shoes outside the house and wear the slippers provided by the hosts.
Lastly, do not open the door of a taxi by yourself. They have automatic controls to open the door for you.
