Nick Lee, Author at Ned Hardy

Travel opens our hearts, but sometimes it closes doors when we misstep into unfamiliar cultural norms. Most people are kind and forgiving, but avoiding common faux pas helps you travel with grace and respect. Here’s a list of everyday “don’ts” across countries — not to scare you, but to make you a more thoughtful, welcome guest.

Japan

Japan is a culture built on mutual respect, subtlety, and social harmony. If you’re wondering whether something might be offensive—just err on the side of restraint.

Don’t tip anyone. Tipping can actually make people uncomfortable. It’s seen as unnecessary or even insulting—like suggesting someone needs a handout. Even small change left behind will be returned to you.
Don’t wear your shoes indoors. This isn’t just a courtesy—it’s a way of life. Remove your shoes in the genkan (the recessed entryway), and change into slippers if provided. Be extra careful in bathrooms—they often have separate slippers just for that space.
Don’t hug strangers. Even a handshake can feel too forward in some cases. A bow goes a long way.
Don’t speak loudly in public. Trains are especially quiet; many people nap or scroll in peace. Save the group chatter for later.
Don’t stand on the wrong side of the escalator. In Tokyo, stand on the left and walk on the right. In Osaka, it’s reversed. Watch what others do.
Don’t eat while walking. Street food may be delicious, but etiquette prefers you stop to eat, then move along.

Germany

Germany values precision, privacy, and practicality. There’s a deep respect for rules—social and otherwise.

Don’t make Nazi jokes or gestures. It’s not just offensive—it’s literally illegal.
Don’t be overly friendly right away. Germans typically take time to warm up. They value sincerity over small talk.
Don’t wish someone a happy birthday early. It’s considered bad luck—even if you’re trying to be sweet.
Don’t cross the street on a red light. Even if no car is coming, it’s frowned upon. You’re setting an example for kids.
Don’t stare. It’s seen as invasive and socially awkward.

Norway

Norwegians are private and deeply egalitarian. The tone is humble, low-key, and unassuming.

Don’t unwrap flowers before gifting. Presentation matters.
Don’t stare at naked people. Public nudity, like changing at beaches or sauna culture, is normal. It’s your gaze that’s inappropriate.
Don’t ask about church. Religion is private and rarely discussed.
Don’t flaunt wealth or status. Norway prides itself on Janteloven, the idea that no one is better than anyone else.
Don’t expect VIP treatment. Even the prime minister is called by their first name.

Russia

Russian hospitality is real—but so is their sense of boundaries and pride in tradition.

Don’t give an even number of flowers. Those are for funerals. Odd numbers only, please.
Don’t rely solely on cards. Cash is still king in many places.
Don’t criticize the government. Russians may do it among themselves, but it feels patronizing from outsiders.
Don’t smile too much. Especially at strangers. Smiling without reason can come off as insincere or naïve.

Singapore

This is a hyper-clean, tightly regulated city-state where rules help hold the social fabric together.

Don’t eat or drink on public transit. Not even water.
Don’t litter, spit, or jaywalk. Fines are real and steep.
Don’t forget gum is banned. Yes, really.
Don’t be careless with public affection. Singapore tends to lean conservative, especially outside nightlife spots.

Kenya

Kenya is a place where time bends and community matters.

Don’t disrespect religion. Religion is part of daily life—expect references to God even in casual conversations.
Don’t rush. “African time” is real. Things happen eventually, but rarely on schedule.
Don’t speak openly about sex. Especially in mixed company. Save it for trusted friends.
Don’t use first names casually. Formality equals respect. Titles matter: Mr., Mrs., Dr., Engineer, Madam, or Sir.

New Zealand

Kiwis are laid-back but fiercely proud of their identity.

Don’t call them Australian. They’re not, and they will correct you—politely.
Don’t make fun of rugby or The Lord of the Rings. These are sacred.
Don’t expect to see kiwi birds. They’re shy, nocturnal, and endangered.
Don’t wear shoes? No problem. It’s common to walk barefoot—even in stores or cafes.

Turkey

Turkey sits at a cultural crossroads, blending modernity with tradition.

Don’t make the “OK” hand sign. It’s vulgar here.
Don’t get drunk in public. Alcohol is legal, but drunkenness is frowned upon.
Don’t pick your teeth or blow your nose at the table. Seriously. Excuse yourself instead.
Don’t forget to offer tea. If you’re hosting or just chatting, offering tea is practically a ritual.

India

India is vibrant, complex, and full of contradictions—modern and traditional, all at once.

Don’t show public affection. Even a quick peck could offend or get you fined.
Don’t touch someone of the opposite sex. Especially in rural areas, physical boundaries are stricter.
Don’t enter temples in revealing clothes. Modesty is key.
Don’t use your left hand. Especially for eating or passing things—it’s considered unclean.

France

There’s a rhythm to life in France—and you’ll be better off syncing to it than pushing against it.

Don’t expect vegan menus everywhere. Awareness is growing, but it’s still a meaty, buttery culture.
Don’t talk about money. It’s seen as crass and too personal.
Don’t assume people speak English. Even if they do, opening with Bonjour, parlez-vous anglais? shows respect.

Mexico

Warm, expressive, and proud—Mexico thrives on connection and shared humor.

Don’t act superior. Even unintentional arrogance from tourists can sting.
Don’t get offended easily. Jokes are part of bonding.
Don’t skip the food. Even if it’s new to you, trying it is part of embracing the culture.

United Kingdom

Politeness here is practically a sport.

Don’t cut in line. Ever. The British queue is sacred.
Don’t talk money. Use social clues instead.
Don’t invite someone over casually. Home is private. Socializing often happens in public spaces.

Ireland

Friendly, but with sharp ears and strong cultural identity.

Don’t say “Top of the morning.” No one says that. Ever.
Don’t mimic an Irish accent. It’s not funny. It’s cringey.
Don’t dodge your round at the pub. If you’re drinking in a group, it’s your turn eventually.
Don’t call the UK “the mainland.” Ireland is its own proud island.

Brazil

Brazil is expressive, affectionate, and full of energy. But there’s still a rhythm to how you engage.

Don’t show up on time to a casual party. Arriving exactly on time can feel awkward or even rude. It’s common (and expected) to arrive 30–60 minutes late to social gatherings.
Don’t assume everyone speaks Spanish. Brazil speaks Portuguese—proudly and distinctly.
Don’t be shy with physical contact. Brazilians are huggers, kissers, hand-holders. Avoiding touch can feel cold.
Don’t mention Argentina in a competitive way. The rivalry is friendly… mostly. But sports talk can escalate fast.

South Korea

In South Korea, social hierarchy and etiquette are baked into everyday interactions.

Don’t pour your own drink. It’s considered polite to pour drinks for others—and wait for someone to pour yours.
Don’t use one hand when giving or receiving. Use two hands when offering a gift, shaking hands, or pouring a drink.
Don’t write names in red ink. It’s associated with death and funerals.
Don’t stick chopsticks upright in rice. That too mimics a funeral ritual and is seen as bad luck.

Thailand

The Land of Smiles is famously welcoming, but some lines shouldn’t be crossed.

Don’t touch someone’s head. The head is considered sacred—even with children.
Don’t point your feet at people or sacred objects. It’s disrespectful. Tuck your legs under you when sitting.
Don’t raise your voice. Losing your temper is seen as a loss of face and can shut down conversations quickly.
Don’t disrespect the royal family. Even joking about the monarchy can result in jail time.

Morocco

Morocco is rich with hospitality and tradition, and navigating it well means being aware of social boundaries.

Don’t eat with your left hand. The right hand is used for eating, passing food, and greetings.
Don’t photograph people without asking. Especially women or elders. Always ask permission.
Don’t assume alcohol is welcome. Many locals don’t drink, and public intoxication is taboo.
Don’t enter a mosque if you’re not Muslim. Unless it’s specifically open to non-Muslims, entry is usually restricted.

Israel

Modern and ancient, relaxed yet intense—Israel is full of contradictions, and navigating them well requires context.

Don’t be surprised by bluntness. Israelis are famously direct—it’s cultural, not rude.
Don’t talk politics unless you’re informed. People are passionate and political discussions run deep.
Don’t shake hands with Orthodox Jewish individuals of the opposite sex. Religious modesty may prohibit it. Wait to see if they extend their hand first.
Don’t bring up religion casually. Even if you’re curious, it can touch deep personal and national identity issues.

Philippines

A warm, family-oriented culture where kindness and saving face are everything.

Don’t lose your temper. It’s seen as a sign of weakness, not strength.
Don’t reject food or hospitality outright. Even a polite refusal may feel like a rejection. A soft “Maybe later” goes over better.
Don’t address elders by their first name. Use “Ate” (ah-teh) for older women and “Kuya” (koo-yah) for older men.
Don’t show off. Modesty and humility are deeply respected.

United Arab Emirates

A modern hub with deep Islamic traditions—understanding local customs matters.

Don’t dress too revealingly. Especially in public spaces like malls or government buildings. Modesty is expected.
Don’t engage in PDA. Public displays of affection, even hand-holding, can be frowned upon.
Don’t eat in public during Ramadan. If visiting during this time, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.
Don’t offer a handshake to a woman unless she extends her hand first. Always let the local person lead.

Sweden

Sweden is calm, reserved, and equality-driven. If you’re loud and brash, you’ll stand out—and not in a good way.

Don’t interrupt. Conversations move slowly and deliberately, with space between thoughts.
Don’t talk about how great you are. Bragging clashes with the cultural norm of Jantelagen—a belief that no one is better than anyone else.
Don’t push to be overly familiar. Friendships take time, and privacy is valued.
Don’t assume they’re cold. Swedes just prefer depth over small talk—they’re often warm once you get past the surface.