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Cultural Etiquette
Cultural Dos and Taboos
1. Handshakes are the traditional forms of greetings. Friends and relatives may greet with an embrace and kisses on the cheeks as well.
2. One should use the formal form of address such as Mr. or Mrs. followed by a surname, unless invited to move to a first name basis. Younger people are more apt to move to less formal forms of address quickly, while children tend to address each other using first names. One should also use Madame for all women except young girls. If you speak French, use the vous form until you are told to use tu. Outside the personal sphere, however, it is advisable that professional and governmental titles be used. In business, titles are used more rarely in verbal communication although they are customarily used in written communications.
3. Men should hold doors open for women. In general, polite behavior towards strangers is the norm. For example, when entering or leaving a shop, it is customary to greet and say goodbye to the clerk.
4. The continental style of table etiquette is the norm. The fork is steadfastly held in the left hand and the knife in the right hand. Wrists should remain on the table at meals and one should never place one's hands in one's lap.
5. The mode of dress depends on the place being visited. Certain restaurants and casinos will require formal attire; other wise casual dress is fine. Note that beachwear should remain at the beach.
6. In conversation, sightseeing, positive aspects of local culture and society, as well as travel, are considered to be good topics of conversation. Europeans tend to be well informed about cultural and political issues, and so one should expect honest and opinionated expression of ideas in this regard. One should, however, respect personal privacy and avoid personal questions or issues during conversation. (Naturally, this is a generalization and should be treated as such.)
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