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Cultural Etiquette
Cultural Dos and Taboos
1. Both men and women will shake hands when greeting each other. However, if the people are Muslim, women and men may refrain from handshaking.
2. Conversations should always begin with inquiries after both party's family and health. Try not to initiate political discussions.
3. The traditional diner involves men eating first, women next and then children.
4. As it will be very important for the host to be generous and hospitable, so is it important for the guest to show appreciation. When presented with food or drink that you do not want to eat, be delicate in your refusal, so as not to offend. Explain your refusal is determined by medical or cultural reasons. Ask for a substitution. If the host offers you beer and you do not drink alcohol, ask for a soda. Never just flat out refuse something.
5. Dinner guests are expected to stay after dinner and converse with the host and other guests of a few hours.
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