As expectations regarding good manners differ from person to person and vary according to each situation, no treatise on the rules of etiquette nor any list of faux pas can ever be complete. As the perception of behaviors and actions vary, intercultural competence is essential. However, a lack of knowledge about the customs and expectations of people in Europe can make even the best intentioned person seem rude, foolish, or worse. It has been suggested that Office etiquette be merged into this article or section. ... For the Australian musician, see Faux Pas (musician). ... In psychology and the cognitive sciences, perception is the process of acquiring, interpreting, selecting, and organizing sensory information. ... Behavior (U.S.) or behaviour (U.K.) refers to the actions or reactions of an object or organism, usually in relation to the environment. ... This article or section does not cite any references or sources. ... Personification of knowledge (Greek Επιστημη, Episteme) in Celsus Library in Ephesos, Turkey. ... It has been suggested that Convention (norm) be merged into this article or section. ... expectation in the context of probability theory and statistics, see expected value. ... World map showing the location of Europe. ...

European etiquette globally

Many customs regarding good behavior have been exported to places with cultural traditions based in Europe, including America, Oceania, South Africa and so on. Therefore, much of this article is limited to the discussion of etiquette which is peculiar to only a particular part of Europe. World map showing the Americas CIA political map of the Americas The Americas are the lands of the Western hemisphere or New World consisting of the continents of North America[1], Central America and South America with their associated islands and regions. ... World map exhibiting a common interpretation of Oceania; other interpretations may vary. ...

Generalizations

While Europe contains a wide variety of social traditions, it is also (excluding Russia) relatively compact, well-traveled and urbanized compared to many other continents or cultural areas. As such many expectations regarding etiquette are shared across Europe. Dymaxion map by Buckminster Fuller shows land mass with minimal distortion as only one continuous continent A continent (Latin continere, to hold together) is a large continuous mass of land on the planet Earth. ...

Consideration

• Etiquette begins with some sensitivity to the perceptions and feelings of others and the intention not to offend. Failing to thank and compliment a host, using a mobile phone in a theatre, taking the last bit of a dish without offering it to others and many other examples of bad manners fall into this category.

Distinctions

• As elsewhere, many people in Europe are proud of their distinct ethnic, national, religious, linguistic or cultural identity and may be insulted by those who fail to make the distinction. For example, a French-speaking Belgian may be offended if referred to as French person.
• Although “lumping” people together is the biggest danger, sometimes “splitting” can be a faux pas as well. An example might be trying to discern whether someone is Irish Catholic or Anglo-Irish.
• When in doubt, avoid characterizing people according to a cultural identity. Make inquiries regarding identity carefully (if at all).

Motto: Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité Liberty, Equality, Fraternity Anthem: La Marseillaise Metropolitan France() – on the European continent() – in the European Union()  —  [] Capital (and largest city) Paris Official languages French Government Unitary republic  -  President Jacques Chirac  -  Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin Formation  -  Celtic Gaul 1200 BC   -  Franks 11 BC   -  Kingdom of France... Irish Catholics are persons of predominantly Irish descent who adhere to the Roman Catholic faith. ... Anglo-Irish was a term used historically to describe a ruling class inhabitants of Ireland who were the descendants and successors of the Protestant Ascendancy[1], mostly belonging to the Anglican Church of Ireland or to a lesser extent one of the English dissenting churches, such as the Methodist church. ...

Drinking

• It is polite for people to invite each other to drink first or to wait until everyone is ready to drink at the same time by toasting.
• When giving a toast, participants generally expect eye contact. Expectations regarding the touching together of drinking vessels vary greatly. In some circles, its considered unsophisticated to touch glasses whatsoever. In other situations, drinking glasses are contused with great vigor and any resultant spillage or breakage is regarded as part of the fun.

Hip hip horray! Artists celebrating at Skagen by Danish painter P.S. Krøyer, 1888 A toast is someone or something in honor of which people usually have a drink, the drink or honor itself, or the act (pledge) of indicating that honor. ... Eye contact is the event when two people look at each others eyes at the same time[1]. It is a form of nonverbal communication, and can be an intense or emotional occurrence or a soon-forgotten event. ...

Eating

• It is often impolite to begin eating before others are ready to begin, or to eat in front of another person without offering to share. Typically all wait for the host, eldest person present or guest of honor to say "let's begin" in some way.
• In a situation such as a large banquet table or a restaurant where the waiter has failed to bring all food to the table at the same time, it is gracious to insist that others begin eating first while their meals are still warm.
• It is good manners to hold the knife in the right hand and the fork in the other throughout the meal. This contrasts with the "zig zag method" that is a hallmark of good table manners in the USA. Crossing one's cutlery on the plate means one is taking a break but has not finished eating. Upon finishing a meal, the knife and fork should be left more or less parallel or else it hints that one hasn't eaten enough.^[1]
• Resting one's hands under the table or one's elbow on it is considered inappropriate.

This article or section does not cite its references or sources. ... It has been suggested that Fork etiquette be merged into this article or section. ...

Flowers

Chrysanthemums are only appropriate for funerals.

• In many areas of Europe, even numbers of flowers fewer than a dozen are appropriate only for funerals. This rule does not apply to larger arrangements. Also, certain flowers (such as chrysanthemums) are given only at funerals and most florists will advise against them. As red roses typically connote romantic feeling, they are inappropriate for other circumstances.^[1]

Image File history File links Download high resolution version (1600x1189, 505 KB) Chrysanthemums File links The following pages link to this file: Chrysanthemum User:Fir0002/Fir0002 gallery ... Image File history File links Download high resolution version (1600x1189, 505 KB) Chrysanthemums File links The following pages link to this file: Chrysanthemum User:Fir0002/Fir0002 gallery ... Species C. carinatum - tricolor daisy C. cinerariifolium - pyrethrum C. coccineum - pyrethum daisy C. coronarium - crown daisy C. frutescens - marguerite C. majus - daisy C. X morifolium - florists           chrysanthemum C. segetum - corndaisy Ref: ITIS 35791 The chrysanthemum, also known as the mum, is a flowering perennial plant of the genus Chrysanthemum... Underwater funeral in Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea A funeral is a ceremony marking a persons death. ... Species C. carinatum - tricolor daisy C. cinerariifolium - pyrethrum C. coccineum - pyrethum daisy C. coronarium - crown daisy C. frutescens - marguerite C. majus - daisy C. X morifolium - florists           chrysanthemum C. segetum - corndaisy Ref: ITIS 35791 The chrysanthemum, also known as the mum, is a flowering perennial plant of the genus Chrysanthemum...

Gestures

• Avoid hand gestures with which one is unfamiliar; many hand gestures are impolite. Also, some gestures have different meanings in different cultures. For example, a variation of the thumb-to-index finger "okay" sign is an obscene gesture in some European countries.

// This digit is one of the five fingers (though the word finger can also refer exclusively to the non-thumb digits). ... The Index finger The index finger, pointer finger or forefinger is the second digit of a human hand, located between the thumb and the middle finger. ... Look up okay in Wiktionary, the free dictionary. ... Obscenity in Latin obscenus, meaning foul, repulsive, detestable, (possibly derived from ob caenum, literally from filth). The term is most often used in a legal context to describe expressions (words, images, actions) that offend the prevalent sexual morality of the time. ...

Handshakes

• Shaking hands while wearing gloves is widely considered impolite. This does not apply to gloves for women designed to be worn indoors.^[2]

Shaking with the right hand while delivering a certificate with the left. ...

Hats and Coats

• Among many segments of the European population, it is considered rude for men to wear hats or other head coverings indoors, especially in regards to churches, private homes and respected public institution.^[3]
• Anyone wearing coats, boots and other outer garments inside someone’s home is often frowned upon as well. Sitting down at the table to eat with a hat, outerwear or other inappropriate attire is even worse.^[4]
• These rules are sometimes disregarded if the headwear is worn for religious purposes such as a Jewish Yarmulke, or a Muslim's headscarf.

The word Jew ( Hebrew: יהודי) is used in a wide number of ways, but generally refers to a follower of the Jewish faith, a child of a Jewish mother, or someone of Jewish descent with a connection to Jewish culture or ethnicity and often a combination... A yarmulke (also yarmulka, yarmelke) (Yiddish יאַרמלקע yarmlke) or Kippah (Hebrew כִּפָּה kippāh, plural kippot) is a thin, usually slightly rounded cloth cap worn by Jews. ... There is also a collection of Hadith called Sahih Muslim A Muslim (Arabic: مسلم, Persian: Mosalman or Mosalmon Urdu: مسلمان, Turkish: Müslüman, Albanian: Mysliman, Bosnian: Musliman) is an adherent of the religion of Islam. ... Turkish women in eastern Turkey wearing the non-Islamic yemeni headscarfs. ...

Language

• Rules of language belong more to a language textbook than this article, but do remember that some languages mark familiarity and/or respect using methods such as the T-V distinction. This often applies to common phrases such as "how are you?", that are sometimes learned in isolation (such as from phrase books).^[5]
• Addressing people with the inappropriately familiar form may be seen as derogatory, insulting, or even aggressive. Conversely, forms that are inappropriately formal may be seen as impolitely snobbish.^[6]

This article or section does not cite any references or sources. ...

Luck

• Some things formerly prohibited by superstitions surrounding bad luck remain as examples of bad manners. Opening an umbrella indoors and accepting a light for a cigarette after two others are two examples.^[7]

Superstition is a set of behaviors that may be faith based, or related to magical thinking, whereby the practitioner believes that the future, or the outcome of certain events, can be influenced by certain of his or her behaviors. ... “Good luck” redirects here. ...

Money

• Talking or asking about one's personal wealth, possessions or success in business is widely viewed as vulgar. People will rarely say how much money they make or have in the bank nor will they request such information from someone else. It is impolite to ask colleagues about their salary and in some places of work it is forbidden.^[8] In some places, especially where government employees' salary are publicly known, it is still considered extremely rude to ask individuals about how much they earn.

The term vulgar originally meant of the common people, from the Latin vulgus. ...

Multiculturalism

• The notion of multiculturalism is widely accepted among the European population and there is a considerable understanding about how different rules apply to different peoples. Accordingly, expecting (for example) a Hasidic Jew to remove his hat when visiting a Church or to badger a Hindu to accept food that violates her/his dietary laws is a faux pas that would offend many Europeans regardless of their own denominational backgrounds.

Multiculturalism is the idea that modern societies should embrace and include distinct cultural groups with equal social status. ... Hasidic Judaism (also Chasidic, etc. ... This article discusses the adherents of Hinduism. ... There are very few or no other articles that link to this one. ... A religious denomination (also simply denomination) is a subgroup within a religion that operates under a common name, tradition, and identity. ...

Names

• In many parts of Europe, it is inappropriate to use someone's first name until a certain level of friendship is attained. Typically, this formality is maintained until one person says “you can call me (first name) ” and the other person responds in kind. Even in areas where this guideline holds true it probably doesn’t apply among people below a certain age group nor in some very informal settings.^[9]

Pointing

• Pointing at people with the index finger is widely regarded as at least mildly impolite.

Seating

• Good manners dictate that in most situations, people in apparent good health surrender their seats to the elderly, handicapped people and pregnant women. Men often surrender their seats to women regardless of other factors.

Socks

In Europe, "athletic socks" such as these are widely regarded as inappropriate for adult men and may prompt snickering.

• White socks, including the style associated with athleticism in the USA, are widely regarded as inappropriate for adult men and may prompt snickering. Tennis courts are a specific exception.

Image File history File links Description: Three socks Source: Agricultural Research Service Photographer: Scott Bauer The same Picture is avilable in a better Quality under Image:Socken farbig. ... Image File history File links Description: Three socks Source: Agricultural Research Service Photographer: Scott Bauer The same Picture is avilable in a better Quality under Image:Socken farbig. ... Socks Various brands of socks in a pile A sock is a knitted garment for enclosing the human foot. ... This article does not cite any references or sources. ...

Visiting

• Many Europeans feel it is rude to visit someone's home without bringing a token gift such as sweets, a small toy for the host's child, a beverage to be shared, a book they know the host will enjoy, or flowers. Even young people who observe this custom less stringently enjoy being on the receiving end.
• This custom holds true whether answering an invitation or dropping by unexpectedly, although the latter is almost certainly a faux pas unless the host has previously indicated that such surprise visits are welcome.

Weddings

• In some European wedding traditions, wearing white is reserved for the bride. Women especially should avoid dressing in white or colors that could be mistaken for white in a dimly lit banquet hall. White combined with other colors (such as a white blouse with an outfit) is fine. Avoid wearing a dress more elegant or ostentatious than the bride's own.
• Black is not very appropriate for weddings. Dark blue and dark brown are fine. Men in black suits should balance that with an element such as a brightly colored neck tie to avoid looking like one is dressed for a funeral.
• In some European countries, it's customary to wear the wedding band on the right hand, in others on the left hand, and in some cultures with the groom wearing the band on his right and the bride on her left. Widows and widowers often move the band to the other hand.
• Engagement bands in lieu of stone-set engagement rings are customary in some places, for both the man and the woman. These are often smaller, and most often go on the opposite hand of the wedding bands.

Nuptial is the adjective of wedding. It is used for example in zoology to denote plumage, coloration, behavior, etc related to or occurring in the mating season. ... Blue necktie. ...

Special advice for Americans

• It is worth noting that American Foreign Policy is a deeply emotional issue for both Americans and Europeans. Even friends who believe they share similar political viewpoints can quickly find themselves in contention when the topic is discussed. Americans should try to remember that seemingly anti-American statements may not be intended to offend. On the other hand, statements by Americans are often taken in the most negative way.

For a history, see Timeline of United States diplomatic history For the published diplomatic papers, see The Foreign Relations of the United States Federal courts Supreme Court Chief Justice Associate Justices Elections Presidential elections Midterm elections Political Parties Democratic Republican Third parties State & Local government Governors Legislatures (List) State Courts... It has been suggested that this article or section be merged with Opposition to United States foreign policy. ...

European etiquette by region

This article categorizes countries according to the scheme for geographic subregions as delineated by the United Nations (other categorizations vary):      Northern Europe      Western Europe      Eastern Europe      Southern Europe

This article categorizes countries according to the scheme for geographic subregions as delineated by the United Nations (other categorizations vary). Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (984x924, 72 KB) Summary Map: Europe (location), subregions as delineated by United Nations geographic classification scheme:  Northern Europe  Western Europe  Eastern Europe  (Northern) Asian portion of Russia  Southern Europe  Countries of Western Asia with partial territory in Southern Europe – Turkey (Trakya... Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (984x924, 72 KB) Summary Map: Europe (location), subregions as delineated by United Nations geographic classification scheme:  Northern Europe  Western Europe  Eastern Europe  (Northern) Asian portion of Russia  Southern Europe  Countries of Western Asia with partial territory in Southern Europe – Turkey (Trakya... The UN geoscheme divides the world into macro regions[1] and subregions, all in alphabetical order. ... The foundation of the U.N. The United Nations (UN) is an international organization whose stated aims are to facilitate co-operation in international law, international security, economic development, social progress and human rights issues. ... Northern Europe is marked in dark blue Northern Europe is a name of the northern part of the European continent. ... The borders of Western Europe were largely defined by the Cold War. ... Map of Eastern Europe Pre-1989 division between the West (grey) and Eastern Bloc (orange) superimposed on current national boundaries: Russia (dark orange), other countries of the former USSR (medium orange),members of the Warsaw pact (light orange), and other former Communist regimes not aligned with Moscow (lightest orange). ... Southern Europe is a region of the European continent. ... The UN geoscheme divides the world into macro regions[1] and subregions, all in alphabetical order. ... The foundation of the U.N. The United Nations (UN) is an international organization whose stated aims are to facilitate co-operation in international law, international security, economic development, social progress and human rights issues. ...

Eastern Europe

• Bulgaria, Belarus, Ukraine and Russia share naming conventions(see Russian naming conventions). Many surnames change based on gender. For example Mr. Ivanov's wife might be Mrs. Ivanova. Accidentally referring to him as Mr. Ivanova or her as Mrs. Ivanov is a serious faux pas. Since understanding these suffixes and how they are applied in a specific region is a relatively simple matter to learn, even monoglot speakers of English are expected to use them correctly. Similar thing happens in other slavic languages, such as Polish or Czech.
• Rather than greeting guests and conducting transactions (such as paying a delivery man) over the threshold, it is more polite to allow people to step inside or to step outside to meet them.

This article gives the general understanding of naming conventions in the Russian language as well as in languages affected by Russian linguistic tradition. ...

Armenia

• In Armenia, discussion regarding Turkey or other parts of the Muslim world may be incendiary due to recollections of the Armenian Genocide in the early 20th century.

Nations with a Muslim majority appear in green, while nations that are approximately 50% Muslim appear yellow. ... Armenian Genocide photo. ... (19th century - 20th century - 21st century - more centuries) Decades: 1900s 1910s 1920s 1930s 1940s 1950s 1960s 1970s 1980s 1990s As a means of recording the passage of time, the 20th century was that century which lasted from 1901–2000 in the sense of the Gregorian calendar (1900–1999...

Czech Republic

• As Czechoslovakia ceased to exist in 1993, it is inconsiderate to use this name to refer to the Czech Republic.
• When you are visiting house or flat you are requested to unshoe. It is very impolite to stay in your shoes inside the house.
• It is impolite to talk about a salary during a conversation, even with your close friends.
• If you are a man traveling with a woman, you must enter pub or restaurant first and leave last.
• When passing people in a theater or cinema row, face them. It is considered rude to pass with your back toward the other person.
• Refusing offered handshake is a very impolite personal insult.
• Handshake must be strong and without other gestures or movements.

Hungary

• In Hungary, people traditionally consider clinking their glasses/mugs when drinking beer to be impolite. Clinking with any other alcoholic beverage, such as wine, champagne or hard liquor is customary. (The reason people aren't supposed to toast with beer is this: In 1848/9 there was a Hungarian uprising which failed. A benevolent liberal government by and for Hungarians was declared, but then subsequently it was put down by the Austrian Monarchy. In 1848/9 the hapless Habsburgs foolishly decided to toast their victory over the failed Hungarian revolutionaries with beer. The Hungarians seeing this declared a ban on toasting with beer for 150 years, ending in 1998.)

At this point toasting with beer and clinking your glass or bottles is fine.

• Refrain from making jokes about or pointing out that the English name Hungary is a homophone with "hungry".

Poland

• In many areas of Poland, traditions remain strong and it can be impolite to dress casually for Easter, Christmas or other family celebrations.
• Raised with patriotic notions surrounding the Polish cavalry, most Poles are disgusted by the idea of human consumption of horse meat.
• When offering a cigarette, one should open the box and allow the receiver to take one rather than handling the cigarette to someone directly. It is also customary to light cigarettes for others, especially for women.
• When offering a sweet, a little toy for children or a similar small item from a set or an assortment, it's impolite to select one for the receiver. It's also very impolite to take more than one item when selecting one from an assortment.
• In schools, children may celebrate their own birthdays by bringing wrapped candy for the whole class.
• When speaking to someone of equal or higher status than yourself (someone you just met or who is older then you are, teacher, lady in a shop, etc) it is rude to address them as "you" unless you have agreed to be on first name basis. The accepted form is to address people as "pani" (Polish for Mrs.) or "pan" (Polish for Mr).
• Guests offering to help with doing dishes or cooking meals is considered rude, since it implies that the host is not providing a good service to their guests. Also, refusing more than three times a food or other offer is considered rude for the same reasons.
• Doctors, even in social situations are often addressed as "pan doktor" or "pani doktor" (Mr. Doctor or Mrs. Doctor). This is due to class division and many people still believing doctors are of higher class and/or breeding.
• When drinking it is polite to always pour for others first. Before drinking, everyone must (or at least make an attempt to) clink their glasses together with a chorus of "Na zdrowie" (Cheers). If someone is far away, it suffices to go for eye contact and a raise of the glass.
• When visiting someone, one must unshoe, but it is common that guests are asked not to unshoe.
• Men visiting women (and on retreat) at their homes is not considered flirtatious

Volunteer Representative Squadron of City of Poznań in uniforms of 15th Poznań Uhlans Regiment Polish Cavalry (Polish: ) can trace its origins back to the days of Medieval mounted knights. ... Musculature of horse Horse meat is the culinary name for meat cut from a horse. ... A wide range of candies on display on a market in Barcelona, Spain. ...

Romania and Moldavia

Transylvania has a population of over 7 million people, including sizeable numbers of Hungarians, Roma and Germans. When visiting Europe, don't trivialize it by mentioning Dracula.

• The region within Romania known as Transylvania is a major area of the country and home to over 7 million people, including sizeable numbers of Hungarians, Roma and Germans. Don’t trivialize it by mentioning Dracula or the Rocky Horror Picture Show.
• Romania is a diverse country, having many cultures (Romanian, Hungarian, Rroma, German, Serbian, Ukrainian, Turkish and Bulgarian). Moldova is also a diverse country (with Romanians, Ukrainians and Russians). One must take into account the quite significant differences in culture of each ethnic group. However, because of the diversity of the country, people tend to be lenient when an outsider makes a mistake.
• Never sit on the corner of a table - it is considered bad luck for you and for everybody else at the table.
• When offering a cigarette, open the box and let the person taking the cigarette take one.
• The T-V distinction is widely used, and so is the usage of last names in formal situations. Titles are also used when referring to a person in a formal situation. In employing T-V, consider that Romanians are not very formal.
• Names do not change according to the Russian system. For example, Mr. Popescu's wife is Mrs. Popescu.
• Kissing the hands of women as a greeting in Romania is no longer common - in most circles it is considered excessively pretentious or antiquated. However, it can still be used, and may even be expected by older women. The handshake is a very common form of salute. The higher ranking or elder person is expected to initiate the handshake. Kissing on the cheek is another form of salute - although more intimate then the handshake, it is not considered impolite even in some formal occasions.
• Parts of Moldova follow a very special form of toast involving the use of just one glass, filled with wine or plum brandy, which is passed around in a clockwise circle amongst all at the table. The tradition is to drink, refill the glass and pass it to the next in order at the table. Refusing to drink or forgetting to refill it before passing it is considered a strong offense.
• Polite gestures such as giving up one's seat for the elderly or holding a door for the person following you are widely expected. Failing in this regard may prompt criticism.

DVD cover showing actor Bela Lugosi as Dracula in the film Dracula. ... DVD cover showing actor Bela Lugosi as Dracula in the film Dracula. ... Map of Romania with Transylvania in yellow Transylvania (Romanian: or ; Hungarian: ; German: ; Serbian: / or / ) is a historical region in central and western Romania. ... The Roma people (pronounced rahma, singular Rom, sometimes Rroma, and Rrom) along with the closely related Sinti people are commonly known as Gypsies in English, and as Tsigany in most of Europe. ... “Dracula” redirects here. ... Map of Romania with Transylvania in yellow Transylvania (Romanian: or ; Hungarian: ; German: ; Serbian: / or / ) is a historical region in central and western Romania. ... The Roma people (pronounced rahma, singular Rom, sometimes Rroma, and Rrom) along with the closely related Sinti people are commonly known as Gypsies in English, and as Tsigany in most of Europe. ... Dracula is an 1897 novel by Irish author Bram Stoker, featuring as its primary antagonist the vampire Count Dracula. ... The Rocky Horror Picture Show (first released in the United Kingdom on 14 August 1975) is a comedy-horror musical film directed by Jim Sharman from a screenplay by Sharman and Richard OBrien, who also composed the songs. ...

Russia

• In Russia, leaving an empty bottle on the table is widely frowned upon. When a bottle is empty it should be placed in the trash or even moved to the floor so that it is off the table.
• When passing people in a theater row, face them. It is considered rude to pass with your back toward the other person.
• As shoes are often taken off and left in the foyer before entering a home, it is polite to ask one's host if they should be removed.

Slovakia

• As Czechoslovakia ceased to exist in 1993, it is inconsiderate to use this name to refer to Slovakia.

Northern Europe

Estonia

• In Estonia, tradition dictates that bread is ripped with the fingers rather than cut with a knife.

Republic of Ireland

Various forms of football are played throughout Europe and teams have legions of loyal fans. In Ireland, rugby, the indigenous Gaelic football game (shown being played here) and the game known in the USA as soccer all have a following. If invited to a game, it is polite to accept and show support for the host's favored team.

• Although the Irish share some cultural values with the British (including some points of etiquette mentioned in regards to the United Kingdom elsewhere in this article, the Republic of Ireland has been independent of the United Kingdom since 1922 and any confusion to the contrary is likely to offend.
• British Isles is a correct geographical term, but in most contexts it is more polite to say “Ireland and the UK” or even “these islands.”
• Although Éire is the official name of the state in the Irish language and will be seen on stamps, currency, etc., it is better to refer to the country as "Ireland" or "the Republic of Ireland" in spoken conversation. Relentless use of “Éire” by RTE announcers has lowered its popularity among the Irish.
• Be aware of language politics concerning the Irish language. Some Irish feel it should be preserved at all costs, others think it is an impractical burden.
• In some contexts, the terms "Ireland" and "Irish" refer to just the Republic and in other contexts they include Northern Ireland. For example, phrases such as "the Irish economy" and "Irish politics" exclude Northern Ireland while "the Irish weather" and "archaeology in Ireland" almost certainly include it. One almost has to be Irish to understand the subtleties of this usage and the Irish understand that other people may be confused.
• Many Irish will remain pleasant and polite rather than reveal their displeasure over certain actions by strangers, especially overseas visitors. Nevertheless, unflattering comparisons between Ireland and the visitor’s homeland, exploitation of a host's hospitality and other boorish behavior will be well noted and the perpetrators of such will be avoided.
• The legal ban on smoking in workplaces (including bars, restaurants and offices) is almost universally observed. When visiting, rather than lighting a cigarette in someone's house or asking permission to smoke, ask to be excused to step outside for a cigarette
• When invited to a person's house for dinner, bring sweets or a bottle of wine. Do not bring food other than a dessert as this implies the host's food is of an inferior quality. Gifts of flowers are usually reserved for romantic exchanges but are acceptable when its clear that isn't the intention (such as one couple bringing another couple "a bouquet for the table"). As a guideline, don't spend less than €5.00 on your dinner gift or more than €20.00.^{[verification needed]}
• When visiting, guests are obligated to accept a beverage (at least) and perhaps a snack and hosts are obligated to keep insisting until they do ("Ah have a cup of tea in your hand, go on"). It is not impolite for a guest to make a request such as "do you have anything cold to drink instead?" but a request that is too specific ("do you have coffee?") and cannot be filled may distress a polite host and have undesired results, such as the host sending their spouse to buy some.
• When someone visits around mealtime, it is typical to lay a place at the table and insist that they join.
• Despite invidious stereotypes perpetuated overseas, over-indulgence in alcohol is taboo in Ireland and uncommon except among some young people. Pubs are a place to socialize rather than a place to drink to a stupor. Implying otherwise is rude.
• When out with friends, co-workers or relatives, it is customary for people to take turns buying rounds of drinks.^[10]
• Do not buy gifts for work colleagues in Ireland. To do so would be regarded as strange, inappropriate and unprofessional. On the other hand, on returning from a trip abroad, it is gracious to bring a food treat (such as a box of sweets) to be shared around.
• Niceties such as saying "good morning" to a shopkeeper upon entering a store or "thank you" to the driver when disembarking a bus are prevalent in Irish society.
• When noting the customs mentioned below in regards to the United Kingdom, many matters of politeness apply such as queuing up for items, saying "excuse me" whenever accidental body contact occurs, and not eating fried potatoes with the fingers in a restaurant. The Irish tend to be a bit more effusive and less restrained than their neighbors in the UK and might be more likely to (for example) hug their in-laws than make do with a handshake.

The ball made in Ireland by the Irish company ONeills used for all official Gaelic football matches. ... The ball made in Ireland by the Irish company ONeills used for all official Gaelic football matches. ... Look up Football in Wiktionary, the free dictionary. ... A BCRFC match at Boston College Rugby football, often just referred to as rugby, refers to sports descended from a common form of football developed at Rugby School in England. ... Gaelic football (Irish: Peil or Caid ), commonly referred to as football, Gaelic or GAA (gah), is a form of football played mainly in Ireland. ... Football (soccer) - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia /**/ @import /skins-1. ... The British Isles in relation to mainland Europe The British Isles (French: , Irish: [1] or Oileáin Iarthair Eorpa,[2] Manx: Ellanyn Goaldagh, Scottish Gaelic: , Welsh: ), is a group of islands off the northwest coast of continental Europe comprising Great Britain, Ireland and a number of smaller islands. ... Map of Éire Éire (pronounced ) is the Irish name for Ireland. ... Percentage of Irish speakers by county; Northern Ireland is also included. ... Radio Telefís Éireann[1] (RTÉ; IPA: ,  ) is the Public Service Broadcaster of the Republic of Ireland. ... There are very few or no other articles that link to this one. ... Percentage of Irish speakers by county; Northern Ireland is also included. ... Northern Ireland is a part of the United Kingdom lying in the northeast of the island of Ireland, covering 5,459 square miles (14,139 km², about a sixth of the islands total area). ... Two unlit filtered cigarettes. ... Buying rounds of drinks is a practice in Ireland, the United Kingdom and elsewhere. ... Queue at US Air Force station in Iraq, for food at a birthday celebration. Queue areas are areas in which people queue (first-come, first-served), that is they wait in line for something. ... A persons mother-in-law is the mother of his wife or her husband. ...

The Nordic countries

Many Scandinavian people take pride in their heritage as explorers and colonizers. Shown here is the Gokstad Viking ship on display in Oslo, Norway.

As Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden share aspects of a common cultural heritage, some guidelines about etiquette may apply throughout the Nordic countries. It is still inconsiderate, however, to blur the distinctions between these nations. One should also note that the term Scandinavia is somewhat ambiguous in the English language but generally refers only to the three kingdoms of Denmark, Norway and Sweden in the region. Image File history File linksMetadata Download high resolution version (1536x2048, 611 KB) Summary Licensing File links The following pages on the English Wikipedia link to this file (pages on other projects are not listed): Longship Viking Gokstad ship Metadata This file contains additional information, probably added from the digital camera... Image File history File linksMetadata Download high resolution version (1536x2048, 611 KB) Summary Licensing File links The following pages on the English Wikipedia link to this file (pages on other projects are not listed): Longship Viking Gokstad ship Metadata This file contains additional information, probably added from the digital camera... Scandinavia is a historical and geographical region centered on the Scandinavian Peninsula in Northern Europe and includes the three kingdoms of Denmark, Norway and Sweden. ... History Gokstad viking ship -excavation. ... County District Viken Municipality NO-0301 Administrative centre Oslo Mayor (2004) Per Ditlev-Simonsen (H) Official language form BokmÃ¥l Area  - Total  - Land  - Percentage Ranked 224 454 km² 426 km² 0. ... Political map of the Nordic countries and associated territories. ... Scandinavia is a historical and geographical region centered on the Scandinavian Peninsula in Northern Europe and includes the three kingdoms of Denmark, Norway and Sweden. ...

• Many people of Scandinavian descent are proud of their heritage as explorers and colonizers during the Viking Age, but it is impolite to trivialize that heritage by suggesting that all Vikings did was go on raids, perpetuating false stereotypes such as the wearing of horned helmets, or imply that Vikings are what one should think of when Scandinavia or Nordic countries are mentioned.^[11]
• Eating only very little of the food placed on ones plate or leaving only a few bits on ones plate implies that the taste or quality was poor and it could not be eaten.^[1] If you are unable to finish what you have been served, be sure to express your gratitude for the very fine meal - and that unfortunately you can not eat that much.
• Never fill your plate with more than you can eat.
• Using your personal utensils to help yourself to more food will taint the dish and prevent others from eating it.
• The legal ban on smoking in public places (including bars, restaurants and offices) is almost universally observed. Rather than lighting a cigarette in someone's house or asking permission to smoke, ask to be excused to step outside for a cigarette.
• In many homes, shoes and outerwear are removed in the foyer.
• In some regions, that of Finland most notably, people tend to be more reserved and soft spoken than others. In social situations, they may be more comfortable with periods of silence than people from the English-speaking world are accustomed to and may regard behavior appropriate in many other places as boisterous.
• Prolonged eye contact with strangers may be considered intrusive. When making eye contact, immediately move your gaze elsewhere or smile politely. Elderly people (70+) will appreciate a polite nod and smile.
• Physical contact with strangers should be avoided, and apologised for if accidental.
• If hosting a meeting or receiving guests, coffee is expected.
• In the Nordic countries, titles such as Mr., Mrs., Professor, Doctor, etc. are not used. Younger people usually call each others by first name regardless of relationship, and the T-V distinction is not used even though it exists. In formal written communication, a person should be addressed by first and surname.
• It is important to be on time for appointments or meetings.
• In Iceland, most people do not have surnames but patronymics. A person's last name is his/her father's first name in genitive with -son or -dóttir added according to the person's sex. Icelanders do not change their name upon marriage (this being illegal) so asking a spouse's last name is not impolite. Icelanders never refer to each other by last name only. In formal situations the whole name is used.
• It is considered polite to stop for pedestrians on roads.
• It is generally considered polite to hold a door open (or give it an extra push open) rather than let it close in the face of someone following you. If someone opens or holds a door open for you, you must always thank them.

Scandinavia is a historical and geographical region centered on the Scandinavian Peninsula in Northern Europe and includes the three kingdoms of Denmark, Norway and Sweden. ... The Viking Age is the name of the age in Northern Europe, following the Germanic Iron Age. ... The name Viking is a loan from the native Scandinavian term for the Norse seafaring warriors who raided the coasts of Scandinavia, Europe and the British Isles from the late 8th century to the 11th century, the period of European history referred to as the Viking Age. ... ... The English language is a West Germanic language that originates in England. ... This article or section does not cite any references or sources. ... Look up patronymic in Wiktionary, the free dictionary. ... The genitive case is a grammatical case that indicates a relationship, primarily one of possession, between the noun in the genitive case and another noun. ...

United Kingdom

When visiting a pub in the United Kingdom (such as the historic The George Inn in London) friends customarily buy rounds of drinks for one another.

• In the United Kingdom, a "V sign" made with palm towards the viewer can signify either "V for victory" or the "peace" sign of the 1960s. Done backwards, with the palm towards to one giving the signal, this gesture is the equivalent to "the finger".^[12]
• It is generally considered polite to hold a door open (or give it an extra push open) rather than let it slam in the face of someone following you. If someone opens or holds a door open for you, you must always thank them.
• A small gift for the host given upon entering such as flowers for the table or wine or chocolates for the meal combined with subdued thanks is common.^[9]
• In business mentioning when the person who called a meeting is late can be seen as impolite; if they are important enough to call the meeting they are important enough to wait for.
• Tea or coffee are offered to guests almost universally. Among some groups, especially at night, a glass of wine or beer may take its place.
• Touching someone to get their attention (except in extremis) or accidentally touching someone without saying "excuse me" or "sorry" is impolite. This especially counts if said person is a stranger, such as in a shop or pub.
• Eating chips (french fries) with fingers is not done in a restaurant or at a meal in someone's home. Use a fork instead. This does not apply in a fast food establishment such as McDonald's. Fingers are used to eat meat on the bone, such as chicken legs.
• Queuing (i.e. "lining up") is expected when there is any demand for an item. The only exception to this is a pub. However it is still rude to accept service from a barperson before someone who has been waiting longer. A simple nod or subtle gesture towards the person who has waited longer will be understood by any experienced server.
• When out with friends, co-workers or relatives, it is customary for people to take turns buying rounds of drinks.^[13]
• Whereas "asking nicely" is often sufficient for politeness in the USA, tone of voice is not adequate for polite requests in the UK: one should include "please" with all requests.
• Summoning shop workers or servers with gestures, or particularly with snapping of fingers, is considered rude.
• It is considered rude not to bag one's own groceries at the check-out. This is a faux pas commonly committed by Americans as bags are commonly packed by store employees in the US. In some shops, particularly supermarkets, help with packing may be offered by the cashier before they begin checking out your items.
• England is a kingdom within the United Kingdom. Ignoring the subdivisions of the United Kingdom and referring to the whole as "England" is insulting to the inhabitants of Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Sensitivity is appreciated regarding national identity (some prefer to be "English", some "British", some "Scottish", etc.).
• In Northern Ireland, be particularly aware that some people identify as "Irish" while others identify as "British" and a faux pas made in this area will rarely pass without comment. The term "Northern Irish" is perhaps least likely to offend. Asking people whether they are Catholic or Protestant is insensitive.

Image File history File links Thegeorgesouthwarksign. ... Image File history File links Thegeorgesouthwarksign. ... An amusingly named pub (the Old New Inn) at Bourton-on-the-Water, in the Cotswold Hills of South West England A pub in the Haymarket area of Edinburgh, Scotland A public house, usually known as a pub, is a drinking establishment found mainly in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada... The George pub, Southwark The pub sign depicts St George slaying a Dragon See also The George Inn (Derby). ... This article is about the capital of England and the United Kingdom. ... Buying rounds of drinks is a practice in Ireland, the United Kingdom and elsewhere. ... The V sign is a hand gesture in which the first and second fingers are raised and parted, whilst the remaining fingers are clenched. ... The 1960s decade refers to the years from January 1, 1960 to December 31, 1969, inclusive. ... This article is about the gesture. ... Fast food is food prepared and served quickly at a fast-food restaurant or shop at low cost. ... McDonalds Corporation (NYSE: MCD) is the worlds largest chain of fast-food restaurants[1]. Although McDonalds did not invent the hamburger or fast food, its name has become nearly synonymous with both. ... An amusingly named pub (the Old New Inn) at Bourton-on-the-Water, in the Cotswold Hills of South West England A pub in the Haymarket area of Edinburgh, Scotland A public house, usually known as a pub, is a drinking establishment found mainly in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada... For the song by Dave Matthews Band, see Bartender (song). ... Buying rounds of drinks is a practice in Ireland, the United Kingdom and elsewhere. ... Motto (French) God and my right Anthem No official anthem - the  United Kingdom anthem God Save the Queen is commonly used England() – on the European continent() – in the United Kingdom() Capital (and largest city) London (de facto) Official languages English (de facto) Unified  -  by Athelstan 927 AD  Area  -  Total 130... The United Kingdom The subdivisions of the United Kingdom are complex, multi-layered and non-uniform, varying between England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. ... This article is about the country. ... Motto (Latin) No one provokes me with impunity Cha togar mfhearg gun dioladh (Scottish Gaelic) Wha daur meddle wi me?(Scots)1 Anthem (Multiple unofficial anthems) Scotlands location in Europe Capital Edinburgh Largest city Glasgow Official languages English, Gaelic and Scots1 Government Constitutional monarchy  -  Monarch Queen Elizabeth II... Northern Ireland is a part of the United Kingdom lying in the northeast of the island of Ireland, covering 5,459 square miles (14,139 km², about a sixth of the islands total area). ... Northern Ireland is a part of the United Kingdom lying in the northeast of the island of Ireland, covering 5,459 square miles (14,139 km², about a sixth of the islands total area). ... Protestantism is a general grouping of denominations within Christianity. ...

Southern Europe

Throughout Southern Europe, many people conduct ordinary conversations in a more lively manner than that which other people, especially Northern Europeans, are accustomed. Loud volume, gesticulation for emphasis, interruptions and casual body contact that might seem rude or boisterous elsewhere is ordinary.^[14] Southern Europe is a region of the European continent. ... Northern Europe is marked in dark blue Northern Europe is a name of the northern part of the European continent. ...

Croatia

• In some homes throughout Croatia, shoes are taken off before entering. When a host insists the guest keep them on it may be a sign of respect.
• The a "V sign" and "thumbs up" mean “victory” and “okay” respectively. Making an "O" with index and thumb with other fingers extended has positive meaning, and is usually connected with something deemed "first class", such as well prepared food. Elsewhere in Europe these gestures can have impolite meanings.
• Kissing cheeks after or while handshaking can be impolite^{[citation needed]}. When appropriate, people kiss once on each cheek. In Međimurje, it is a tradition to kiss four times, twice for each cheek. Also, kissing cheeks as a greeting is only acceptable between family members and close friends. It is not appropriate in business or formal situations.
• It may be preferable to refer to Croatia as a Southern European or a Central European country rather than a Balkan country.
• When offering cigars, sweets, or similar items from an assortment, it is impolite to select one for the receiver. The whole assortment should be offered to the receiver so he/she can choose. It is rude to take more than one when selecting.
• Introduce others before introducing one's self. Also, when referring to others in some context involving yourself, put yourself last. Ex. "Ann and I went to see a movie" NOT "Me and Ann went to see a movie."

The V sign is a hand gesture in which the first and second fingers are raised and parted, whilst the remaining fingers are clenched. ... Hand with thumb up A Thumbs Up is a common gesture represented by a closed fist held with the thumb extended upward or downward in approval or disapproval respectively. ... Look up okay in Wiktionary, the free dictionary. ... Međimurje (Međimurska županija, Muraköz in Hungarian) is a triangle-shaped county in the northernmost part of Croatia. ... This article or section does not adequately cite its references or sources. ...

Greece

Whether drawn by the relics of Ancient Greece or the scenes such as these boats docked on Samos Island, visitors to Greece should be aware of some specific ways in which Greeks indicate "yes" and "no".

• In Greece, signifying "five" or "stop" by holding up five fingers with the palm towards the observer may be mistaken for an offensive gesture akin to the finger. When signifying "five" the palm should face the speaker to avoid a faux pas. A more obvious obscene gesture to be avoided involves making a fist with the thumb placed between the middle and index fingers.^[12]
• "Hello" might also be conveyed with a raised index finger and a closed palm. North American-style arm waving is rude.^[9]
• In a restaurant or other dining establishment, it is good manners to offer to pay for everyone on the table, especially when one has not dined with that company for some time. It is generally expected that this will be reciprocated in another setting. Friendly disputes for the check are usual. Close friends or young people generally share the amount when they dine together.
• When greeting someone, it is generally appropriate to kiss them if they are relatives or close friends, even of the same gender. A kiss on each cheek is usually appropriate. Some, especially the elderly, will take care to only touch cheeks with the person they are greeting. This does not diminish the symbolism of the gesture, and is done with proper hygiene in mind.
• While lack of table manners is considered a faux pas, a meal is considered a time of merriment, company, and celebration. Talking and laughter are commonplace, and one is generally expected to participate in such, even if it involves simply smiling or nodding.
• "Goodbye" is indicated by facing the palm towards yourself with fingers raised and then moving the fingers up and down. Resembling the gesture used elsewhere for "come here", this gesture can confuse non-Greeks. Most of the times, gesturing likewise with the palm facing outwards is also appropriate and understandable.
• "Yes" and "no" are indicated by nodding the head only once: downwards for yes and upwards for no. Shaking the head several times may be considered bizarre, uncivilized, silly or simply incomprehensible.
• Another way "no" is conveyed is by a slight raise of the eyebrows, often accompanied by a "tsk" sound. Failing to receive the message can result in embarrassment.
• Greeks have a saying about stingy people that amounts to, "he would not even offer a glass of water to his guardian angel." Not offering a guest a glass of water or other refreshing drink can be rude, especially when the warm Mediterranean weather has taken its toll on the visitor.
• Whether coming to sightsee or to pray, it is frowned upon to enter a church with short pants, sleeveless shirts, or other immodest clothes. Christians of all denominations are encouraged to make the sign of the cross when entering a church; this obviously does not apply to non-Christians. In conversation, it is polite to have at least a basic understanding of how Greek Orthodoxy is distinct from the other Christian traditions.

The town of Pythagorio, on the south-eastern side of the island. ... The town of Pythagorio, on the south-eastern side of the island. ... The Temple to Athena, the Parthenon Ancient Greece is a period in Greek history that lasted for around three thousand years. ... Samos (Greek Σάμος) is a Greek island in the Eastern Aegean Sea, located between the island of Chios to the North and the archipelagic complex of the Dodecanese islands to the South and in particular the island of Patmos and off the coast of Turkey, on what was formely known as... This article is about the gesture. ... Gender in common usage refers to the sexual distinction between male and female. ... The Mediterranean Sea is an intercontinental sea positioned between Europe to the north, Africa to the south and Asia to the east, covering an approximate area of 2. ... This article needs additional references or sources for verification. ... Greek Orthodox Church (Greek: Hellēnorthódoxē Ekklēsía) can refer to any of several hierarchical churches within the larger group of mutually recognizing Eastern Orthodox churches. ... Christianity percentage by country, purple is highest, orange is lowest Topics in Christianity Movements · Denominations Ecumenism · Preaching · Prayer Music · Liturgy · Calendar Symbols · Art · Criticism Important figures Apostle Paul · Church Fathers Constantine · Athanasius · Augustine Anselm · Aquinas · Palamas · Wycliffe Tyndale · Luther · Calvin · Wesley Arius · Marcion of Sinope Pope · Archbishop of Canterbury Patriarch...

Italy and the Vatican

In general, modest attire is appropriate when visiting holy places worldwide. Certainly short pants and tank tops are not appropriate when visiting churches in Italy and Vatican City. Shown here is St. Peter's Basilica.

• When visiting a home in Italy it is impolite to remove one's coat until asked.
• Rather than biting into a piece of bread, it is more polite to break off (not cut with a knife) a small piece and place it whole into one's mouth.^[1]
• Putting one's hat on a bed is impolite and reminiscent of how a priest would lay his hat on a bed while performing last rites.
• Upon entering a shop, it is proper to greet the proprietor with Buongiorno or some other polite greeting, even if just browsing.
• It is usually impolite to begin drinking before everyone has been served a drink and a toast has been made (even just raising glasses for a second). It is equally impolite to begin eating before everyone has been served.
• Before eating, people typically exchange wish one another Buon appetito. Such practice should be avoided in extremely formal occasion (e.g. a banquet in an embassy) because it could be seen as vulgar behavior.
• It is inappropriate to rest one's hands under the table or to have one's elbows on it.
• Complimenting on food and asking for more is widely regarded as a very polite thing to do and every host is expected to prepare food in abundance. It is also customary, since family lunches last until late in the afternoon, to ask guests to stay for dinner and help finish all the food.
• Asking for the check immediately after finishing one's meal is impolite. One's dining companions will typically expect time to relax and enjoy un caffè (a coffee) and ammazzacaffè (after-dinner liqueur). Doing otherwise is acceptable only if all the people having the meal are in a similar hurry (e.g. during a work lunch break).
• In a related matter, Italians may conduct business at a different pace than that to which others may be accustomed. Attention is often paid to building relationships before getting down to the bottom line.^[15]
• Whether coming to sightsee or to pray, it is improper to enter a church in Italy or Vatican City with short pants, sleeveless shirts, or immodest clothing. Violators may be denied admission or asked to leave, especially with larger churches.
• While church scandals, personal piety and other religious matters are popular topics of conversation between friends, approach these subjects carefully. Likewise, Italy has a tumultuous political history and this topic should be approached with due consideration.
• Many Italians take pride in una bella figura or what English-speakers might call “a sense of fashion”. This means formal business attire is often expected for the workplace and stylish clothing is typical for social situations.^[16]
• Remember that Italy has strong regional and local traditions: assuming that a custom of Rome is also customary in Turin or in Palermo is usually a bad idea.
• Due to its history and traditions, it is considered offensive to refer to the Sardinian language as an Italian dialect. Being traditionally shepherds it might be rude to refer Sardinians as an ignorant people.
• When greeting a friend or a relative of either sex, it is usual to exchange a kiss on both cheeks. Kissing a person that has just been presented is very unusual.

Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (3072x1983, 688 KB) Licensing File links The following pages on the English Wikipedia link to this file (pages on other projects are not listed): Vatican City ... Image File history File links Download high-resolution version (3072x1983, 688 KB) Licensing File links The following pages on the English Wikipedia link to this file (pages on other projects are not listed): Vatican City ... This article needs additional references or sources for verification. ... A male wearing a muscle shirt A sleeveless shirt is, as the name suggests, a shirt manufactured without sleeves, or one where the sleeves have been cut off. ... A church building (or simply church) is a building used in Christian worship. ... This article is about the famous building in Rome. ... Extreme Unction, part of The Seven Sacraments (1445) by Roger van der Weyden. ... Bottles of strawberry liqueur A liqueur is a sweet alcoholic beverage, often flavoured with fruits, herbs, spices, flowers, seeds, roots, plants, barks, and sometimes cream. ... The references in this article would be clearer with a different and/or consistent style of citation, footnoting or external linking. ... This article needs additional references or sources for verification. ... This is a list of scandals in the Roman Catholic Church: Magadalene Sisters Asylum Scandal The fathering of a son by Bishop Eamon Casey Mount Cashel Orphanage, in the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada Categories: Scandals | Roman Catholic Church history | Lists ... Piety is a desire and willingness to perform spiritual, often ascetic rituals. ... Nickname: Motto: SPQR: Senatus Populusque Romanus Location of the city of Rome (yellow) within the Province of Rome (red) and region of Lazio (grey) Coordinates: Region Lazio Province Province of Rome Founded 21 April 753 BC Government  - Mayor Walter Veltroni Area  - City 1,285 km²  (580 sq mi)  - Urban 5... “Torino” redirects here. ... For other uses, see Palermo (disambiguation). ... This article or section is in need of attention from an expert on the subject. ... Shepherd in FăgăraÅŸ Mountains, Romania. ...

Portugal

• When being introduced to someone or greeting a friend in Portugal, it is common to shake hands and, if one or both of the participants is female, a kiss on each cheek is exchanged as well. This also applies for good-byes.
• Not all Portuguese people understand Spanish and it is impolite to assume that they do. Responding "I don't speak Spanish" when spoken to in Portuguese is likely to both offend and make you seem idiotic.
• Talking about the Estado Novo (1928-1974) in causal conservation is deemed inappropriate. Many people experiences of the time very differently, sometimes good and sometimes bad.

The Portuguese people (Portuguese: ) are the ethnic group or nation native to the country of Portugal, in the west of the Iberian peninsula of southwest Europe. ... History of Portugal series Prehistoric Portugal Pre-Roman Portugal Roman Lusitania and Gallaecia Visigoths and Suevi Moorish rule and Reconquista First County of Portugal Kingdom of Galicia and Portugal Second County of Portugal Establishment of the Monarchy Consolidation of the Monarchy 1383–1385 Crisis Discoveries Portuguese Empire 1580 Crisis Iberian...

Serbia

• In Serbia, leaving a glass full when one is done drinking is a traditional way to invite wealth and prosperity into a home.
• People kiss each other three times for greetings (does not matter if they are male or female) if they are relatives (not appropriate for another relationship such as business. Strangers shake hands.)
• Sharing bills in the restaurants or café is unusual in some parts of a country. If the people go out together, they buy rounds of drinks.

Anthem Serbia() on the European continent() Capital (and largest city) Belgrade Official languages Serbian language 1 Recognised regional languages Hungarian, Croatian, Slovak, Romanian, Rusyn 2 Albanian 3 Government Semi-presidential republic  -  President Boris Tadić  -  Prime Minister Vojislav KoÅ¡tunica Establishment  -  Formation 9th century   -  First unified state c. ... Buying rounds of drinks is a practice in Ireland, the United Kingdom and elsewhere. ...

Spain

The Basque people of Spain are proud of their identity. As the Basque language is unrelated to other languages spoken in Europe, implying that it is a dialect of Spanish demonstrates ignorance. Shown here is Basque Liverpool FC's star midfielder Xabi Alonso.

• In Spain, observe the same guidelines regarding handshakes and kisses on the cheek mentioned in regards to Portugal.
• At restaurants it is considered rude for the staff to bring a customer the check without the customer first requesting it.^[12]
• Leaving a tip at restaurants and drinking establishments is a common practice, though it is not necessary and the amount is usually low. Normally one leaves coins from the change when paying with cash and no tip at all when paying by credit card.
• Within Spain there are at least the four distinct ethno-linguistic groups: Galician, Catalan, Spanish & Basque. Nearly everyone speaks the dominant language, Castellano Spanish, but being ignorant of the other cultures is impolite. Also, do not refer to the other three languages as dialects of Spanish.
• In a related issue, there are independence movements within Spain among the groups mentioned with strong feelings on both sides of the issue. Be careful and respectful when discussing this.
• Some other "hot issues" in Spain are bullfighting, religion, and political issues surrounding fascism and nationalism. Regarding the last one, as Spain suffered a civil war within living memory, emotions run deep.
• One usually waves and/or says hello to people in such situations as entering a shop and seeing shopkeeper or spying a neighbor, even someone with whom one has never had conversation.
• When entering a place where there are people eating, it is polite to tell them to enjoy their meal que aproveche. Of course this wouldn't apply in a large restaurant.

As Turkey is a Muslim majority country, many points of etiquette in the Middle East apply here as well. Shown here is the interior dome of the Selimiye Mosque in the city of Edirne.

• Spain is among the most liberal countries in Europe; it may be wise to anticipate liberal views in regards to issues such as same sex marriage.^[17]

Image File history File linksMetadata Xabi_Alonso. ... Image File history File linksMetadata Xabi_Alonso. ... Languages Basque - few monoglots Spanish - 1,525,000 monoglots French - 150,000 monoglots Basque-Spanish - 600,000 speakers Basque-French - 76,000 speakers [4] other native languages Religions Traditionally Roman Catholic The Basques (Basque: Euskaldunak) are an indigenous people[5] who inhabit parts of northwestern Spain and southwestern France. ... Basque (native name: euskara) is the language spoken by the Basque people who inhabit the Pyrenees in North-Central Spain and the adjoining region of South-Western France. ... A dialect (from the Greek word διάλεκτος, dialektos) is a variety of a language characteristic of a particular group of the languages speakers. ... {{Football club infobox | clubname = Liverpool FC | image = fullname = Liverpool FC | nickname = The Reds | founded = 1892 | ground = Anfield | capacity = 45,000 | chairman = D.R.Moores | Chief Executive Officer = R.N.Parry | manager = Rafael Benitez | league = FA Premiership | season = 2005-06 | position = FA premiership, 5th | pattern_la1=|pattern_b1=|pattern_ra1=| leftarm1=FFFFFF|body1=FF0000... Xabier Alonso Olano, commonly known as Xabi Alonso (born 25 November 1981 in Tolosa, Spain), is a Spanish footballer who plays for Liverpool F.C.. He wears the number 14 shirt at Liverpool and is a central midfielder, often playing as a deep-lying playmaker. ... Galician (Galician: galego, IPA: ) is a language of the Western Ibero-Romance branch, spoken in Galicia, an autonomous community with the constitutional status of historic nationality, located in northwestern Spain and small bordering zones in neighbouring autonomous communities of Asturias and Castilla y León. ... Catalan IPA: (català IPA: or []) is a Romance language, the national language of Andorra, and a co-official language in the Spanish autonomous communities of Balearic Islands, Catalonia and Valencia (in the latter with the name of Valencian), and in the city of LAlguer in the Italian island of... Basque (native name: euskara) is the language spoken by the Basque people who inhabit the Pyrenees in North-Central Spain and the adjoining region of South-Western France. ... A dialect (from the Greek word διάλεκτος, dialektos) is a variety of a language characteristic of a particular group of the languages speakers. ... This article does not cite any references or sources. ... This article needs additional references or sources to facilitate its verification. ... This article needs additional references or sources for verification. ... Combatants Spanish Republic With the support of: Soviet Union[1] Nationalist Spain With the support of: Italy Germany Commanders Manuel Azaña Francisco Largo Caballero Juan Negrín Francisco Franco Gonzalo Queipo de Llano Emilio Mola José Sanjurjo Casualties 500,000[2] The Spanish Civil War was a major conflict... Image File history File linksMetadata Download high-resolution version (1800x1200, 1412 KB) Selimiye Mosque, Dome File links The following pages on the English Wikipedia link to this file (pages on other projects are not listed): Islamic architecture Turkey Selimiye Mosque Ottoman architecture Portal:Turkey/Photo archive Metadata This file contains... Image File history File linksMetadata Download high-resolution version (1800x1200, 1412 KB) Selimiye Mosque, Dome File links The following pages on the English Wikipedia link to this file (pages on other projects are not listed): Islamic architecture Turkey Selimiye Mosque Ottoman architecture Portal:Turkey/Photo archive Metadata This file contains... Nations with a Muslim majority appear in green, while nations that are approximately 50% Muslim appear yellow. ... The Middle East contains a multitude of societies with different traditions regarding etiquette. ... This article or section does not adequately cite its references or sources. ... Selimiye Mosque, built by Sinan in 1575 Edirne (Greek: Αδριανούπολη, Bulgarian: Одрин) is a city in Thrace, the westernmost part of Turkey, close to the borders with Greece and Bulgaria. ... Look up liberal on Wiktionary, the free dictionary Liberal may refer to: Politics: Liberalism American liberalism, a political trend in the USA Political progressivism, a political ideology that is for change, often associated with liberal movements Liberty, the condition of being free from control or restrictions Liberal Party, members of... Same-sex marriage (also called gay marriage, and—less frequently—homosexual marriage) refers to marriage between partners of the same gender (for other forms of same-sex unions that are different from marriages, see the articles linked in that section). ...

Turkey

• As Turkey has a Muslim majority, many points of etiquette in the Middle East apply here as well. As much of Turkey is in Asia, many points of etiquette in Asia also apply, such as notes regarding the respect paid to older people.
• Any comment to a person about the appearance of the latter's female relatives or wife might be seen as rude.
• If invited to dinner, one is expected to bring something (usually dessert). Avoid bringing alcohol unless sure that the host partakes.
• Friends might greet each other by handshaking and touching or kissing the cheeks. This is inappropriate for business.
• Shoes are often taken off in the foyer (not outside the house unless they are especially dirty). Slippers may be offered. It is a faux pas to refuse slippers unless one’s socks are extremely clean and in good condition.
• Hosts typically insist that guests keep eating. One needn’t eat much, but should at least taste a bit of everything on the table and express appreciation for the taste and quality.
• The American okay sign should not be used, as it's regarded as the symbol for homosexuality and might offend the people around you. Also putting your thumb between your index and middle finger is a highly offensive sign and should be avoided.

Nations with a Muslim majority appear in green, while nations that are approximately 50% Muslim appear yellow. ... The Middle East contains a multitude of societies with different traditions regarding etiquette. ... World map showing the location of Asia. ... In Asia, many points of good etiquette are derived from religious beliefs. ...

Western Europe

Belgium

• Belgium contains several separate ethno-linguistic communities, including the Dutch-speaking comunity of Flanders, the French-speaking community of the Walloon region and a relatively small German-speaking community in the east of Belgium. At times terms such as Walloon or Flemish indicate cultural identity, while other times they indicate only geographical location. Belgians themselves are still wrestling with these terms and a little understanding of that fact goes a long way.
• The Flemish political party Vlaams Belang is excluded from any coalition government by the so-called cordon sanitaire and this is a bad issue to raise in conversation. Many Belgians are secretive about their political views, as reflected in a discrepancy between exit polls and actual election results.^[18]
• Kissing is usually done upon entering the house of people you're visiting. The number of kisses differ from province to province. For instance, in the province of West-Flanders it's common to kiss three times starting on the left. Kissing is only done between two women or a man and a woman, not between men, who usually shake hands. Kissing relatives and friends you often see is not common, only friends you don't often see or only on special occasions, like New Year's eve and birthdays.
• Offensive gestures like waving your fist to someone or flipping someone off is not done, but note that some people do use their middle finger to point at things. This is only common among people older than 40.

Flanders (Dutch: ) is a large historical region overlapping Belgium, France and the Netherlands. ... National motto: Walon todi ! (Walloon forever!) Official languages French, German Capital Namur Minister-President Jean-Claude Van Cauwenberghe Area  - Total 16,844 km² Population  - Total (2002)  - Density 3,358,560 inhabitants 199. ... The Executive (government) of the German-speaking Community meets in Eupen Flag of the German-speaking community in Belgium The German-speaking Community of Belgium (German: , short DGB) is one of the three federal communities in Belgium. ... The term Walloons (French: Wallons, Walloon: Walons) refers, in daily speech, to French-speaking Belgians from Wallonia, though when referring to its inhabitants with the meaning of citizen of Wallonia, the term Wallonian is more common. ... The term Flemings (Dutch: ) denotes the majority population in Flanders (the northern half of Belgium). ... Vlaams Belang (English: Flemish Interest) is a Belgian political party. ... Cordon sanitaire is a French phrase that, literally translated, means quarantine line. ... West Flanders (Dutch: West-Vlaanderen) is the westernmost province of Flanders and of Belgium. ...

France

The people of France observe some particular points of etiquette related to respect for and appreciation of wine. Shown here is the Pont-de-Pierre in Bordeaux, "wine capital of the world" and producer of Bordeaux wine.

• Many French people are chauvinistic towards their own language, and generally expect foreigners to adress (or try to adress) them in French. It's considered impolite to open a conversation with a (French) stranger in another language. Instead, etiquette demands that something at resembling Pardonnez-moi, s’il vous plaît. Parlez-vous [language] ? be voiced.^[19]
  • Do note that knowledge of English, and foreign languages in general, in France is generally poor.
• Not finishing one's food implies that the taste or quality was poor and it could not be eaten or the host does not correctly serve the quantity of food one needs.^[1]
• Not finishing the wine is considered very rude as it indicates that the host has served a wine of poor quality.
• The rule about not pouring one's drink first mentioned at the start of this article does apply. However, with a newly opened bottle of wine it is considerate to pour a little bit of wine in one's own glass first so that stray cork particles don't go into another person's drink.^[1]
• Bringing a bottle of wine to someone's house for dinner suggests that the hosts won't be providing wine of adequate quality. An exception might be when one explains that they have discovered a good wine and wish to share a sample and get their host's opinion.^[20]
• It is a faux pas to judge a wine based on only one characteristic, such as the region where it is produced or, (most especially) price.^[21]
• Putting a piece of bread on one's plate is uncouth. Leave it on the table beside the plate. Also, rather than biting into a piece of bread, it is more polite to break off (not cut with a knife) a small piece and place it whole into one's mouth.^[1][22]
• It is inappropriate to rest one's hands under the table or to have one's elbows on it.^[1]
• For both sexes, shaking hands with a woman in a casual context is distancing. Embracing (holding each other loosely in the arms while lightly kissing each other's cheek) is usually expected. The number of cheek-kisses varies from region to region between 2, 3 or 4.^[23]
• The American "okay gesture" means "zero" or "worthless" in France.^[24]

Image File history File linksMetadata Download high resolution version (2336x3504, 4935 KB) Description: Bridge of Pierre over Garonne river in Bordeaux, France. ... Image File history File linksMetadata Download high resolution version (2336x3504, 4935 KB) Description: Bridge of Pierre over Garonne river in Bordeaux, France. ... A glass of red wine This article is about the alcoholic beverage. ... This article does not cite any references or sources. ... Bordeaux with sub-wine regions A Bordeaux wine is any wine produced in the Bordeaux region of France. ... Chauvinism is extreme and unreasoning partisanship on behalf of a group to which one belongs, especially when the partisanship includes malice and hatred towards a rival group. ... A glass of red wine This article is about the alcoholic beverage. ... It has been suggested that Type of gesture be merged into this article or section. ...

Germany

Expections regarding etiquette that hold true in Germany may also apply wherever German-speaking people can be found here. Shown here are vinyards owned by the Prince of Liechtenstein, ruler of the smallest German-speaking country in the world.

• People in Germany do not typically hug or kiss to be polite. Such affectionate greetings are usually reserved for close friends and relatives.
• Be wary of touching someone who is not an intimate or close friend. It may be considered inappropriate. This may extend to a person's belongings.
• If the name of a person is known, it is expected to be added to a salutation (i.e. "Guten Tag, Herr/Frau ..." instead of just "Guten Tag").
• It has become impolite to refer to an adolescent unmarried female as Fräulein because the term has been used increasingly to refer to misbehaving little girls. All women should now be referred to as Frau.^[25]
• When indoors, take off your winter jacket and hat. It is considered rude to continue wearing a jacket and might make some people think you're just dropping in and might leave at any moment so that it's not even worth taking off your outer shell. In this vein, it might be considered disrespectful. For those unused to the cool German winter, a solution might be to take off your jacket initially and than put it back on later when you feel too cold.
• It is good manners to greet and say good bye to strangers in such situations as a waiting room or a shared table in a fast food restaurant. In some situations, like when entering an elevator, such pleasantries are optional.
• Although discussing political topics is not generally frowned upon, it is impolite to ask how someone will vote in a specific matter.
• The Third Reich is a sensitive subject. Nazi symbolism and gestures are illegal in Germany, as is denying the holocaust.
• It is acceptable to sit with complete strangers in German restaurants or diners, especially when seating is limited. However, one should always ask if the seat is free before sitting down.
• People often wish each other Guten Appetit ("good appetite/enjoy the meal") before eating.
• German pubs (especially older ones) commonly feature a bell hanging over the counter. One shouldn't ring it unless they intend to buy a round for everyone in the establishment.
• Following an academic lecture, it is considered polite to knock lightly on the table/bench instead of clapping. The latter is considered inappropriate. Not knocking is usually fine, too.
• At work, people often bring cake or sweets or buy lunch for colleagues on their own birthday or when leaving the company. Colleagues may collect money for a shared gift on such occasions.
• Public display of affection, such as holding hands or kissing, is commonly accepted but may be inappropriate in certain surroundings (work, church, high class restaurants, etc.)
• Waving of one's hand from left to right in front of the face is a gesture indicating that someone is crazy or deranged. The "tapped in the head" and "you've got a screw loose" gestures used among English speakers are employed by Germans as well. All of them are rude.
• People in Germany can use phrases like "please" and "thank you" more sparingly than many English-speakers and may use voice tones that sound unkind to those unfamiliar with inflection in the German language. Accordingly, be careful not to mistake this difference for rudeness or hostility when there is none.
• Many Germans make a strong division between work and personal life; calling a German at home to discuss business is rarely appreciated.
• Some of the points of etiquette mentioned here will hold true for German-speaking people elsewhere in Europe including those in Austria, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Switzerland, the province of Bolzano-Bozen in Italy and various locations in Eastern Europe (especially within Russia and Kazakhstan).

Image File history File linksMetadata Download high-resolution version (1232x1632, 644 KB)[edit] Summary Schloss Vaduz, Liechtenstein taken from Vaduz. ... Image File history File linksMetadata Download high-resolution version (1232x1632, 644 KB)[edit] Summary Schloss Vaduz, Liechtenstein taken from Vaduz. ... German (called Deutsch in German; in German the term germanisch is equivalent to English Germanic), is a member of the western group of Germanic languages and is one of the worlds major languages. ... This article is being considered for deletion in accordance with Wikipedias deletion policy. ... Hans-Adam II (Johannes Hans Adam Ferdinand Alois Josef Maria Marko dAviano Pius; on official documents Hans Adam II von und zu Liechtenstein), styled HSH The Sovereign Prince of Liechtenstein, full title Fürst von und zu Liechtenstein, Herzog von Troppau und Jägerndorf, Graf zu Rietberg (born February... Nazi Germany, or the Third Reich, commonly refers to Germany in the years 1933–1945, when it was under the firm control of the totalitarian and fascist ideology of the Nazi Party, with the Führer Adolf Hitler as dictator. ... The twentieth century German Nazi Party was notable for their extensive use of graphic symbolism, most notably the Hakenkreuz (swastika) which it used as its principal symbol, and, in the form of the swastika flag, became the state flag of Nazi Germany. ... For other uses, see Holocaust (disambiguation) and Shoah (disambiguation). ... German (called Deutsch in German; in German the term germanisch is equivalent to English Germanic), is a member of the western group of Germanic languages and is one of the worlds major languages. ... German (called Deutsch in German; in German the term germanisch is equivalent to English Germanic), is a member of the western group of Germanic languages and is one of the worlds major languages. ... Alto Adige/South Tyrol (German: Südtirol; Italian: Alto Adige, Sudtirolo or Sud Tirolo; Ladin: Sudtirol; Official Autonomous Province of Bolzano-Bozen, in German: Autonome Provinz Bozen - Südtirol; Official in Italian: Provincia Autonoma di Bolzano - Alto Adige; Official in Ladin: Provinzia Autonòma de Balsan - Sudtirol), is an autonomous...

Austria

• As Austria is a traditionally Roman Catholic nation, greetings such as Grüß Gott are very common, but would be inappropriate in Protestant Germany (i.e. outside Bavaria).

• It is considered very rude to refer to an Austrian as a German. Though they speak the same language, Austrians are very proud of their separate national identity.

Netherlands

Main article: Dutch etiquette

These parliamental buildings in The Hague lie within the region of the Netherlands known as Holland, as do such other well-known places as Amsterdam and Rotterdam. However, "Holland" and "Netherlands" are not synonymous and it is considered a lack of education rather than ignorance not to know this.

• Holland is a historical region within the Netherlands. Referring to the modern country as "Holland" is incorrect, though offense will rarely be taken.
• Being invited to visit in the afternoon does not imply a dinner invitation and it is rude for the guest to extend such a visit into mealtime unless specifically invited further by the host.
• Promptness is a sign of courtesy to the extent that being more than five minutes early or late (without a proper explanation) is impolite, even with close friends.
• It is traditional to kiss family and friends three times on alternating cheeks upon each meeting.
• When arriving at a birthday party, one is expected to shake hands with everyone present and to congratulate everyone related to the occasion. For example, children are congratulated on the birthday of their parents and vice versa.^[26]
• When out with friends, co-workers or relatives, it is customary for people to take turns buying rounds of drinks.
• It is usually impolite to begin drinking before everyone has been served a drink and a toast has been made (even just raising glasses for a second). It is equally impolite to begin eating before everyone has been served.

The Dutch have a code of etiquette, the code that governs the expectations of social behaviour, and it is considered very important. ... Image File history File linksMetadata Download high-resolution version (3072x2304, 3499 KB) The image was made by me, Patrick Rasenberg, and is released for all usage anywhere in the world. ... Image File history File linksMetadata Download high-resolution version (3072x2304, 3499 KB) The image was made by me, Patrick Rasenberg, and is released for all usage anywhere in the world. ... A parliament is a legislature, especially in those countries whose system of government is based on the Westminster system modelled after that of the United Kingdom. ... Coordinates: Country Netherlands Province South Holland Area (2006)  - Municipality 98. ... Holland is a region in the central-western part of the Netherlands with a population of 6. ... Nickname: Motto: Heldhaftig, Vastberaden, Barmhartig (Valiant, Determined, Compassionate) Location of Amsterdam Coordinates: , Country Netherlands Province North Holland Government  - Mayor Job Cohen (PvdA)  - Aldermen Lodewijk Asscher Hennah Buyne Carolien Gehrels Tjeerd Herrema Maarten van Poelgeest Marijke Vos  - Secretary Erik Gerritsen Area [1][2]  - City 219 km²  (84. ... Nickname: Motto: Sterker door strijd (Stronger through Struggle) Location of Rotterdam Coordinates: Country Netherlands Province South Holland Government  - Mayor Ivo Opstelten  - Aldermen Jeannette Baljeu Hamit Karakus Orhan Kaya Lucas Bolsius Jantine Kriens Dominic Schrijer Roelf de Boer Leonard Geluk Area [1]  - City 319 km²  (123. ... Holland is a region in the central-western part of the Netherlands with a population of 6. ...

See also

• Etiquette in Africa
• Etiquette in Asia
• Etiquette in Australia and New Zealand
• Etiquette in Canada and the United States
• Etiquette in Latin America
• Etiquette in the Middle East
• Worldwide etiquette

Ignorance about African cultures can lead to accidental breeches of etiquette. ... In Asia, many points of good etiquette are derived from religious beliefs. ... As expectations regarding good manners differ from person to person and vary according to each situation, no treatise on the rules of etiquette nor any list of faux pas can ever be complete. ... This article does not cite any references or sources. ... As expectations regarding good manners differ from person to person and vary according to each situation, no treatise on the rules of etiquette nor any list of faux pas can ever be complete. ... The Middle East contains a multitude of societies with different traditions regarding etiquette. ... As expectations regarding good manners differ from person to person and vary according to each situation, no treatise on the rules of etiquette nor any list of potential faux pas can ever be complete. ...

References