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When travelling to a new country, understanding local customs is just as important as knowing what to pack. What might seem polite in one culture could come off as rude or awkward in another. That’s why we’ve created this handy travel etiquette guide to help you avoid social faux pas and connect more meaningfully with the places you visit.
From how to greet someone to what not to do at the dinner table, here are the etiquette dos and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting our top holiday destinations.
France
When visiting France on holiday, it’s essential to appreciate the country’s rich history, exquisite cuisine, and deep cultural pride. From strolling through quaint villages to marvelling at iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, France offers an experience filled with elegance and charm.
Cultural Norms
Greet Shopkeepers and Service Staff with “Bonjour”
Saying “Bonjour” (or “Bonsoir” in the evening) is a simple yet essential sign of respect in France. Failing to greet someone when entering a shop or restaurant may be interpreted as rude or dismissive. Always follow up with “Merci” when leaving.
Keep Your Hands Visible at the Table While Dining
Good table manners are taken seriously. Rather than resting your hands in your lap, it’s considered proper to keep them above the table, lightly resting your wrists on the edge, though never your elbows.
Take Your Time During Meals
Meals in France are about pleasure, conversation, and community. Rushing through food or asking for the bill too quickly can come across as impatient or unrefined. Enjoy each course and let the meal unfold at a natural pace.
Cultural Faux Pas
Start Eating Before Someone Says “Bon appétit”
This phrase is not just polite - it’s a ritual that sets the tone for the meal. Wait for your host or dining companion to signal the start of the meal with this expression before picking up your cutlery.
Request Major Changes to Your Dish
French chefs take immense pride in their craft, and menu items are thoughtfully prepared. Asking for substitutions or additions - especially things like ketchup or extra cheese - may be viewed as disrespectful to the chef’s vision.
Smile at Strangers Without Context
Unlike in some cultures where smiling is seen as friendly or welcoming, the French are more reserved with their expressions. Smiling without reason - especially on the street - can be misunderstood or seem insincere.
Italy
Heading on holiday to Italy is an enchanting experience, filled with rich culture, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable cuisine.
From the ancient ruins of Rome to the breathtaking Amalfi Coast and the vineyards of Tuscany, Italy offers a diverse range of sights and experiences to suit every traveller.
Cultural Norms
Dress Well, Especially in Cities or When Dining Out
Fashion and presentation are a core part of Italian culture. Wearing tidy, stylish clothes shows respect for the setting and the people around you. Casual dress is fine in certain situations, but being well-dressed earns you better treatment in many establishments.
Greet People with a Handshake or Cheek Kiss if Appropriate
In formal or unfamiliar settings, a firm handshake will do. Among friends or in more familiar circles, expect one or two cheek kisses (starting on the left). Don’t be surprised if this greeting is extended to both men and women.
Accept Food or Drink When Offered by a Host
Hospitality is a point of pride, and declining an offer, even politely, can be seen as a rejection. Even if you’re not hungry, accept a small portion and show appreciation.
Cultural Faux Pas
Order a Cappuccino After 11 am
Cappuccino is considered a breakfast drink, and ordering one after a meal or in the afternoon is viewed as unusual. Instead, opt for an espresso, which is the standard post-meal coffee.
Add Cheese or Condiments to Dishes Where It’s Not Traditional
Asking for parmesan on pasta or ketchup on pizza can offend your host or chef. Italian cuisine follows regional rules, and altering a dish is sometimes seen as disrespectful.
Eat in a Rush or Ask for the Bill Too Early
Italians value relaxed, communal dining. Meals are meant to be enjoyed over time, often with several courses. Asking for the bill too soon can signal impatience or disinterest in the experience
Japan
A holiday in Japan is a truly unforgettable experience, offering a perfect blend of rich traditions and modern innovation.
From the serene beauty of ancient temples and cherry blossoms to the bustling streets of Tokyo, Japan captivates visitors with its unique culture, exquisite cuisine, and warm hospitality.
Cultural Norms
Say “Itadakimasu” Before Meals and “Gochisousama deshita” After
These phrases are more than just polite words - they reflect gratitude and respect for the food, the people who prepared it, and the resources involved in making it. Saying “Itadakimasu” (“I humbly receive”) before a meal, and “Gochisousama deshita” (“Thank you for the meal”) after, is considered proper etiquette whether you’re dining at home or in a restaurant.
Remove Your Shoes When Entering Homes and Traditional Establishments
In Japan, the separation of indoor and outdoor spaces is taken seriously. Shoes worn outside are considered dirty and must be removed before stepping into homes, temples, and certain restaurants or inns. Look for designated areas or cubbies near the entrance and wear clean socks to avoid embarrassment.
Bow When Greeting Others
Bowing is a traditional Japanese greeting that signifies respect, humility, and gratitude. A slight bow is appropriate in casual settings, while deeper bows are reserved for formal or apologetic situations. Handshakes are becoming more common in business, but when in doubt, a respectful bow is always safe.
Cultural Faux Pas
Tip at Restaurants or in Taxis
Unlike in many Western countries, tipping is not part of Japanese culture and may even cause confusion or embarrassment. Great service is already included in the price, and attempting to tip might be politely refused.
Stick Chopsticks Upright in a Bowl of Rice
This resembles a ritual performed at funerals and is considered extremely disrespectful. Similarly, avoid passing food directly from one set of chopsticks to another, as this too mimics funeral customs.
Speak Loudly or Use Your Phone in Public Transport
Public spaces - particularly trains - are expected to be quiet and orderly. Loud conversations, phone calls, or disruptive behaviour are seen as inconsiderate. Keep your voice down and set your phone to silent. Additionally, try to avoid heavy scents or perfumes when travelling on transport, too.
Thailand
Heading to Thailand on holiday offers an unforgettable experience filled with vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. From exploring the bustling streets of Bangkok to relaxing on the pristine beaches of Phuket or Krabi, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re tasting the delicious street food, visiting ancient temples, or enjoying the natural beauty of the lush countryside, Thailand promises memories that will last a lifetime.
Cultural Norms
Use the Traditional ‘wai’ Greeting
The wai - pressing your palms together in a prayer-like gesture and bowing slightly - is a respectful and polite way to greet someone, especially elders or people in positions of authority. Return the gesture when it’s offered to you.
Remove Your Shoes Before Entering Temples and Homes
Shoes carry dirt and are considered unclean - wearing them indoors is seen as disrespectful. You’ll usually find a shoe rack near the entrance as your cue to remove them.
Show Respect to the Royal Family and Religious Icons
The monarchy and Buddhism hold great cultural importance in Thailand. Disrespecting the King or religious symbols is not only deeply offensive but can also carry legal consequences.
Cultural Faux Pas
Touch Someone’s Head - Even a Child’s
In Thai culture, the head is the most sacred part of the body. Touching someone’s head, even playfully, can be seen as intrusive or insulting.
Sit or Stand with Your Feet Pointing Toward People or Sacred Objects
Feet are considered the lowest and dirtiest part of the body. Avoid pointing them at monks, Buddha statues, or even sitting in a way that exposes the soles of your feet.
Raise Your Voice or Lose Your Temper
Public displays of anger or frustration are considered a loss of face and can be embarrassing or offensive to locals. Maintaining a calm and courteous tone is essential, even in stressful situations.
Brazil
Brazil is a vibrant and diverse destination, offering breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and warm hospitality.
From the lively festivals and samba beats of Rio de Janeiro to the serene beauty of the Amazon rainforest, there's something for everyone.
Cultural Norms
Greet with Warmth - Kisses, Hugs, or Handshakes
Brazilians are physically expressive and friendly. Women are often greeted with cheek kisses (typically one or two, depending on the region), and men may offer a hug or firm handshake.
Be Expressive and Use Hand Gestures When Speaking
Animated communication is the norm in Brazil - facial expressions, hand movements, and lively conversation are part of the culture, and being too reserved may come off as distant.
Accept Food and Drinks When Offered
Hospitality is taken seriously in Brazilian homes, and refusing an offer may be interpreted as ungrateful. It’s customary to accept, even if just a little, and compliment the host.
Cultural Faux Pas
Arrive Exactly on Time for Social Gatherings
Brazil operates on a more relaxed sense of time, especially for informal events. Arriving 15–30 minutes late is often expected and can prevent you from catching your host unprepared.
Be Overly Concerned About Personal Space
Close physical contact is common - standing close, touching arms during conversation, or hugging is part of the norm. Stepping back may be misread as cold or unfriendly.
Bring Up Controversial Topics Like Politics or Religion
Unless you know your company well, it’s best to avoid sensitive subjects. Political discussions can be passionate, and misunderstandings are easy when cultural contexts differ.
Final Thoughts: When in Doubt, Observe and Ask
Every destination has its own unique customs and cultural quirks, but one principle holds true across all borders: showing genuine respect. Whether it's removing your shoes, learning a greeting, or simply observing how locals behave, these small efforts go a long way toward creating authentic and positive travel experiences.
So next time you pack your suitcase, don’t forget to bring some cultural curiosity - it might be the most important thing you carry.