Latest "International Etiquette" Posts
January 14, 2020
I travel more than the average human. During any given month, I might be crisscrossing my home country of Canada, flying to Sri Lanka, and planning a trip to the Netherlands. I’m very fortunate that my job takes me to so many beautiful places, but the reality of such frequent travel is often not very romantic!
After years of trial and error, I’ve developed a series of travel hacks that will help you breeze through airports, keep messy reservations in order, and even prevent pesky luggage wrinkles.
Track Everything
Keep all of your logistics, such as flight information, hotel addresses, car services, the names of drivers, and ground transportation options in one place. I rely on an app called Tripit, but you may choose to use Notes or Wallet in your iPhone or even a binder with hard copies. The method isn’t as important as consistency. Get in the habit of filing away new pieces of information every time you make arrangements so you have all the information you need at your fingertips. When hiccups inevitably occur, you’ll be armed and ready. This is one of my favourite travel hacks by far!
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Posted by Margaret Page in Business, Travel, International Etiquette and tagged travel, business, apps, flying, airports
April 4, 2019
It’s a great time of year to take to the open seas! Before you step on board, here are a few cruise ship etiquette tips to help you and your fellow shipmates create an amazing cruise experience!
Courtesy is Key
Think of your ship like a floating hotel, except with thousands of other people! Every little courteous gesture goes a long way on board. If for example, there’s a line at the elevator, taking the stairs burns off some calories from the chocolate lava cake. If you are a slow walker, have mobility issues or your party has a stroller, move to the right side of the narrow hallway to let others pass by (midship cabins also offer the shortest walk to the elevators).
Catching some downtime in your cabin after an excursion? Speak a little quieter than normal as your neighbours may have the same idea as you!
Formal Gives Way to Chic
Left your ball gown at the cleaners? Not to worry! The dress code on most nights nowadays is Smart Casual and Above. Many cruise ship lines have given Formal Night a modern luxury reboot with Evening Chic night. Men can wear dark jeans with a button-down shirt and blazer and women wear cocktail dresses. Dressier is perfectly fine, but more importantly, feel free to leave the tux and gown at home. Daily programs delivered to your stateroom identify the type of evening planned. You can always check out the dress code online before you embark for more details on cruise ship etiquette. Lastly, swap out your sand-covered flip flops for dress shoes when you head to the dining room.
It’s Food O’Clock
Cruises are known for outstanding buffets and restaurants. Most food, and occasionally alcohol, is already paid for so it’s easy to overindulge, especially since you’re in vacation mode! Remember that too much food or alcohol can enhance the effects of rocky seas and it would be no fun at all to spend your vacation recovering in your cabin. Go ahead and sample items you normally wouldn’t make at home, just remember they won’t run out of food so eat when you are hungry.
Poolside Politeness
Do you enjoy getting laps in early before you head off for a couple eggs bennie? Fantastic – you’ve got lots of pools to choose from! Just make sure you take your towel, flip flops and sunscreen with you afterwards rather leaving them on a chair to seat-save. The next person heading to the pool area will thank you.
Keep An eye on your children
Do you struggle to find activities for your children while on holidays? Most cruise lines have wonderful childrens programs that allow the parents a few hours of fun in the sun while the kids are safe at play. For age appropriate activities, consult the Guest Conduct Policy to find interesting activities for them to do. When not under the supervision of the cruise crew, be sure to keep an eye on your kids so that they are safe and not disrupting other passengers. Cruises are not a vacation from parenting (no matter how good the spa is…)
Timing Is Everything
Cruising means disembarking at exotic ports of call, learning new cultures and treating yourself to new life experiences. You and the other 2,000 people. If you leave the ship when it’s at a port of call, think twice about indulging in another mai tai if you are cutting it close. The ship WILL leave port on time. You don’t want to be that couple that are running down the boardwalk as the ship is pulling away from the dock. Know the time zone you are in so others aren’t waiting for you.
The Tipping Point
Generally speaking, most cruise lines have a set tipping amount that gets automatically added to your account. The amount is a reasonable, per person, per cabin figure and covers the dining staff and cabin steward. Introduce yourself to your stateroom steward. They will help make your cruise memorable, keep your room clean and provide you with any information you require.
For off ship excursions, read what is customary for the countries you are visiting. In countries like Canada and the USA, leaving a tip is the norm. But you might be surprised to learn that in some countries, tipping is not customary, or it is built into the cost of the meal. If you are not sure, better to leave 10% at the minimum to be safe.
Be Social
Take a photo of yourself and your group as your ship is leaving the embarkation port and share it on your social media profiles. Remember to hashtag the name of your ship so others on board can follow. Use this opportunity to ask cruise-related questions, meet new friends and learn about shore excursions. Cruise ships not only suggest it but welcome it!
No matter if this is your first cruise experience, or your 20th, cruising has become a way of life for the Baby Boomers and Generation X. Keeping cruise ship etiquette in mind will make your cruise memorable and fun!
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Posted by Margaret Page in Dining Etiquette, International Etiquette, Just for Fun and tagged travel, cruise ship, cruising, cruise etiquette, international
October 26, 2018
I work with many clients in China and India, two powerhouse markets that celebrate holidays on a different calendar than those of us in North America. I always try to stay on top of international holidays — not only is it a wonderful conversation point, but I enjoy learning about other cultures through their major festivals and events.
Wading into these holidays can be a bit tricky for the uninitiated. In India alone,
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Posted by Margaret Page in Uncategorized, Dining Etiquette, Etiquette Edge, Etiquette Tips, International Etiquette and tagged courtesies, culture, cultural awareness
September 21, 2018
I am often on the road or up in the air. I travel extensively and internationally for my business, self-development and for causes I care about, so I’ve amassed a trove of sanity-saving apps that keep me organized, on time — and entertained. That’s no small feat when I might be in Tokyo on Tuesday and Toronto on Thursday.
These eight apps have become my essential traveling companions.
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Posted by Margaret Page in Uncategorized, Communication, Etiquette Tips, Everyday Etiquette, International Etiquette and tagged #travel #roadwarrior
May 26, 2018
Instant messaging has revolutionized the business world, with services like WhatsApp, LINE, and WeChat taking the place of phone calls and email. In fact, emails have become so outmoded — especially among younger generations — that some businesses have eliminated internal email altogether.
But if you’re new to this back-and-forth, rapid-fire style of communication, instant messaging can be a dizzying experience — and open you up to unexpected gaffes. Navigating the waters in tricky enough that some wealthy Chinese women take etiquette classesthat feature an entire module on WeChat, China’s most popular instant messaging service.
No matter the platform, there are a few basic rules that will keep you from annoying, insulting, or otherwise infuriating your instant messaging contacts.
Understand notification settings. Unlike email or voicemail, your recipients on instant messaging services can see whether you have received and read their messages — and if you let a long period of time go by without responding, it’s nearly as bad as not paying attention to someone who is speaking to you in person. Respond to direct messages promptly, even if it’s to say that you’ll follow up later.
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Posted by Margaret Page in Business Etiquette, Communication, Etiquette Tips, Everyday Etiquette, International Etiquette and tagged etiquette tips for communication
June 11, 2013
In the first part of our global etiquette tips series, we talked about the highly publicized cultural faux pas made by Microsoft tycoon, Bill Gates. His one-handed shake “shook up” the Korean culture.
Even if you’re a seasoned traveler – or a billionaire – the most subtle of misunderstandings in cultural differences can cause a stir. Differences in things as simple as office etiquette and opinions on the correct level of business formality can cause tensions.
When doing business globally, it’s important to remember that the expressions we use in the Western world may mean something entirely different in another country. Did you know, for example, that when the Japanese use the expression “sitting near the window,” they are referring to employees the company is retiring?
Here are some other global business etiquette and customs to consider:
In the Middle East, the right hand is the only hand used for eating as the left hand is reserved for bodily hygiene and is considered unclean. Shaking hands or handing an item to someone with one’s left hand is considered an insult.
When in Greece, Turkey or Bulgaria, note that shaking your head to indicate a negative response means the opposite!
In Japan, it’s best to avoid wrapping gifts in red or white as the as the color is associated with funerals and weddings. In China, red is considered lucky, so a good choice for gift wrapping, but skip the white paper as white is used in funeral and connotes death.
Also note the following dining customs when doing business in Asia:
Don’t rest your chopsticks vertically in your rice bowl. Stowing chopsticks in this way is considered impolite. The sight of two upright chopsticks in a bowl is a harbinger of death as it’s reminiscent of the incense sticks that the Chinese traditionally burn in veneration of loved ones.
If you’re dining with a group of people, a good rule of thumb is to order dishes equivalent to the number of people in your party, plus one. Makes sense as you want to ensure you have enough food. But if you’re in China, and the number of people in your group is an even number, this formula will put you at an odd number of dishes—which is a ‘no-no’ in the country. An odd number of dishes symbolizes death.
Exploring the world, whether for business or for pleasure, is such a wonderful way to be exposed to new and exciting cultures. Before you pack your bags, make an effort to learn a little about the culture and customs of the people you’re visiting. They will value you all the more for your efforts, and you’ll avoid Bill Gates moment!
Would love to hear about your travels. Share with us in the comments below!
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Posted by Margaret in International Etiquette
May 2, 2013
Bill Gates found himself the topic of conversation last week—and it had nothing to do with technology. Tongues were wagging and heads were shaking in South Korea when Bill Gates greeted President Park Geun-hye with a one-hand shake, while his other hand was in his pocket.
Gates probably didn’t realize it, but a one-hand shake in Korean culture is done only when the other party is a good friend, of the same or younger age. In formal situations, greeting someone in a formal situation with a one-hand shake, with your other hand tucked into your pants pocket, is considered rude and disrespectful. The handshake, along with his open jacket, was way too casual and sparked a firestorm of controversy.
If you’re doing business around the world, you’re likely to make a cultural faux pas. Example: Did you know that in Brazil, your briefcase or bag should never be placed on the ground? When at a business meeting in Brazil, hang your bag on the chair or a hook.
Global business continues to expand—and it’s up to you to do your homework and put your best international foot forward when visiting another country for business. Having an awareness, and sensitivity, to their unique culture is extremely important and can affect the outcome of business communication. One small misstep, such as addressing an individual incorrectly, or not observing the rules of gift giving or timing, can be costly.
Here are some other global business etiquette and customs to consider:
In Great Britain, if someone taps his or her nose, it’s a signal that something is to be kept confidential. So keep a look out for that!
When meeting for business in China, Czech Republic, Bolivia or Japan, be sure to bring along a gift.
Speaking of gift giving, in the Chinese culture, certain gifts are associated with death and should never be given. These include: clocks, handkerchiefs, straw sandals and a stork or a crane.
If you’re dining out in Japan and China, you are not expected to leave a tip. Leaving a tip can be construed as offensive in these countries as it implies that the employee is undervalued by their employer. (Here’s a handy guide for tipping etiquette around the world.)
A few other things to note when traveling abroad: In India, cows are considered sacred, so refrain from ordering beef when attending a business dinner. In Saudi Arabia, it’s considered a popular gesture of friendship between men to hold hands while walking. Also of note, when dining in Islamic countries, it is inappropriate to eat with your left hand. Women visiting or doing business in Iran should always cover their arms, legs and hair.
When it comes to cultural etiquette, the first step in bridging the gap is awareness. Next week we’ll share 10 more global business etiquette tips that will help you navigate business with confidence no matter where you are in the world!
photo credit: Judy Vandervelden
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Posted by Margaret in International Etiquette
May 4, 2011
I’m back in Canada now, after spending 3 (wonderful) weeks in The Netherlands. I didn’t get to take as many pictures as I would like, but this picture of me eating the herring I had just purchased from a street vendor got me thinking about how unique each culture is when it comes to specific etiquette “rules.”
The Dutch, for example, take punctuality for business meetings very seriously and expect you do the same. If you’re going to be late for a business meeting while in The Netherlands, I suggest you call ahead with an explanation as to why you’re delayed. And if you have to reschedule, don’t be disappointed if it takes you weeks to arrange another meeting. The Dutch lead busy lives and have full agendas.
In The Netherlands, food doesn’t play the major role in hospitality, in comparison to other cultures. It’s not considered essential to serve a meal to a guest as a way to make them feel welcome. If you are invited for a meal, be sure to take a small portion of food to begin with. If a second portion is offered, it’s polite to accept.
Keep your hands on the table at all times – never on your lap during a meal. But, like your mother probably told you when you were a kid, “Keep your elbows off the table.”
It’s proper etiquette in The Netherlands to use a knife and fork to eat all foods, including pizza, sandwiches, and fruit. But then, that brings me back to the picture of me eating the herring with my hands, now doesn’t it?
There are street vendors in the squares and along the bridges at the canals, and in most towns selling herring. It’s quite the thing in The Netherlands. Wherever you find groups of people congregating, you can be sure there is a fish wagon nearby.
The raw herring is deboned by skilled fish handlers. The skin and tail is removed and the fish is served with raw onions on a paper plate. The Dutch way to eat the fish is to pick it up by the tail, tilt your head back and let the fish slide into your mouth. So, that’s what I did!
I love exploring what other cultures have to offer. Being open to our cultural differences, and embracing their customs is a great way to learn more about each other. And eating raw herring on a street (sprinkled with onion, of course) is the way to do in the Netherlands!
You know what they say…”When in The Netherlands…”
Have you experienced a cultural tradition you’d like to share? I’d love to hear about it! Share in the comments below!
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Posted by Margaret in International Etiquette and tagged dining etiquette, business etiquette, cultural manners, cultural traditions, International protocol, multi-cultural etiquette, multicultural manners, pickled herring, The Netherlands
January 21, 2011
“The tea ceremony requires years of training and practice… yet the whole of this art, as to its detail, signifies no more than the making and serving of a cup of tea. The supremely important matter is that the act be performed in the most perfect, most polite, most graceful, most charming manner possible”.
~Lafcadio Hearn
I love to travel. I love to see new places and meet new people — and experience their culture. And even though I’ve never been to Japan, I’m fascinated by their culture. And one of the things I’ve really enjoyed taking part in (a few times!) is The Japanese Tea Ceremony.
Here’s a bit about the ceremony—or should I say, ceremonies—to perk your interest. (Yes, that was a tea-ism…and corny, I know, but had to do it.)
The Scoop
One of Japan’s most honored customs, the Japanese Tea Ceremony is a traditional ritual, influenced by Zen Buddhism, in which powdered green tea, or matcha, is prepared by a skilled practitioner and served to a small group of guests in a tranquil setting.
- The host draws the boiling water from the pot.
Throughout the year there are various kinds of ceremonies–each one with specific names according to the time of day, the occasion of the tea ceremony, or the season in which the ceremony is held. No matter when, or where the ceremony is held, this common thread remains: the tea ceremony involves the preparation and serving of tea to a guest or guests.
Each tea ceremony has a host or hostess who will customarily wear a kimono. The ceremonies may be held either inside and outside and can last from one to five hours, depending on the type of ceremony.
If the tea is going to be served in a separate teahouse, the guests will wait outside until they are summoned. When invited inside, guests will remove their shoes and enter the teahouse through a small door, where they will proceed to the “tokonoma,” or the alcove.
A simple meal, called a “kaiseki,” may be served, followed by sake. When the meal is finished, the guests usually leave the area where the tea ceremony is being held until the host or hostess calls them back once more. It’s at that time that the tea ceremony truly begins.
Next, in the Japanese Tea Ceremony, the instruments – used to make the tea – are cleaned. Each utensil—including the tea bowl (chawan), whisk (chasen,) and tea scoop (chashku)—is ritually cleaned in front of the guests in very precise ways. This process is a time where guests remain silent, observing the process.
The Japanese tea is much more than “serving tea,” it’s about being present in the moment. The quiet rituals within the ceremony lend to the overall experience of slowing down time. It’s all very peaceful.
Once the instruments are cleaned, the host will make the tea – with a measured amount of green tea powder, whisking it with hot water. The host will bow to the guest in attendance who is the most honourable, who will drink from the bowl first and then return the bow to the host.
When the guest of honour (the first guest) passes the bowl to the next guest, he must turn the bowl so that when it is presented the second guest’s lips will not touch the same place on the bowl as the first guest.
After all the guests have had tea, the host will clean the utensils. As part of the tradition, the guest of honour will request that the host allow the guests to examine the utensils. Each guest will admire each item, treating them as though they were invaluable treasures. Then, the host will collect all the utensils and the guests will exit the teahouse. The host will bow from the door …signaling the end of the tea ceremony.
A Japanese Tea Ceremony, to me, is an event far removed from my afternoon Pot-O-Red-Rose. It is delightful, peaceful…meaningful. Perhaps we could incorporate some of these traditions within our own culture? Modified slightly to fit our Western way of life?
What do you think? In a world so intent on getting as much done in a 24-hour period as we can, can you see yourself setting aside 4 hours for a reflective time of quiet and green tea?
Bonus! Etiquette Tip: When seating guests in a Japanese-style room, the correct etiquette is to seat the most important guest with his or her back facing the tokonoma. This is because of modesty; the host should not be seen to show off the contents of the tokonoma to the guest, and thus it is necessary not to point the guest towards the tokonoma.
And now the answers to Tea Trivia!
Last week i posted these trivia questions for readers, and thought it only fair to share the answers!
- The Boston Tea Party
- Earl Grey.
- 180 degrees F or 82.
- Low tea..because it was served on low tables, such as coffee table
- The leaves are pan fried.
- See above!
- Darjeeling tea, grown in India.
How many did you get right?
images: Amy Otoko
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Posted by Margaret in International Etiquette and tagged tea etiquette, grace, honor, Japanese Tea Ceremony, rituals, tranquility
