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Country Profile: Malta


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Cultural Etiquette


Cultural Dos and Taboos

1. Handshakes are the accepted form of greeting. Men should extend their hand o a woman first.

2. Punctuality is expected of foreign businessmen and women. However, do not expect your Maltese counterpart to be on time.

3. Never point with your forefinger at anyone or anything.

4. Good topics of conversation are sports, culture, politics, family and religion.

5. When invited to a home for dinner, it is fine to bring the host or hostess a gift. Flowers (ask the florist about the appropriate type and number for the occasion), candy, chocolates, or a book from your country are fine gifts as well.

6. One must always be respectful toward the elderly. Never speak to them with your hands in your pocket. Remove your hat when speaking to someone older than yourself. It is very disrespectful to speak to elders with your hands positioned on your hips while you are standing.

7. Modest and conservative dress is required inside churches.

8. Never take photographs of people without their permission.