13 simple rules of etiquette in Southeast Asia

In the Asian countries, the traditions are still stronger and the age hierarchy is important. At the same time, the rules of good tone ^ are not fundamentally different from the rules in European countries, except for some small features.

13 simple rules of etiquette in Southeast Asia. Photo Credit: Bob Gala, Flick

These few, simple tips, will make stay in Southeast Asia comfortable for both you and the people around.

Learn a few basic words, in the language of the country to which you go. Simple, such as, "Hello", "Goodbye" and "Thank you". Having respect for the language you will be pleasantly surprised by local residents and place them to ourselves.

Do not exhibit your feelings. Kissing couples are an ordinary business on the streets of Europe. Here, despite the sexuality of the outgoing from each bas-relief, it is not customary to expose intimate parties to life for visiting others.

Do not try to conclude a person in greeting arms, unless he manifests the initiative himself. Generally accepted practice, as a rule, is a simple handshake or a bow with his chest palms. But here there is a feature: the level on which the hands are located (above / lower), determines the meaning of the conclusion. Therefore, it is better to just greet a person with a slight tilt forward.

Often the older man is assigned the role to greet the first.

If you were invited to a family dinner, wait until the most elderly family member will sit down and then take place at the table. Try to eat everything that the owners put in your bowl. It is believed that you like a guest, the best thing is that there is at the table. If you are full and do not cope with the next portion, slightly cover your hand to the food bowl and politely refuse.

After eating, put sticks parallel to side by side on the table or on the edge of the bowl for food. Do not leave them vertically in the pile. In this position, they are associated with the chopsticks of the incense, which are used under different circumstances, including in the rituals on the deceased. Sticking out of the bowl of wands, in local beliefs, are considered precursors of trouble.

13 simple rules of etiquette in Southeast Asia. Photo Credit: France-&# x2665 ;, Flick

If you want to photograph people, ask them about it. They are not an element of exotic, but the same people like you. And may not be in their plans to shine in your photos.

Do not be surprised and do not be offended, if after the question, what is your name, your personal questions will follow, for example, your age or marital status. So often try to show "politeness") and support the conversation.

Do not touch the head of people. Hair and head, here are considered the most pure beds in humans and only the owner can touch them.

Respect traditions and shrines. Do not turn your back to local idols and gods. Do not turn to them feet. Open feet legs will unpleasant to contemplate your interlocutor on the contrary. Unlike the head, legs are considered the most dirty part of the body.

Observe the local dress code, especially in rural areas and temples. Do not swim and do not sunbathe naked or topless. Going to local shrines do not wear shorts, shirts or sleeveless. Shoulders and knees should be covered, and when entering the house or temple, remove the shoes. Shoes may need to be removed in other places, for example, in a street shop. Pay attention to the patch at the entrance ; if there will be shoes there, it means that the threshold can only be barefoot.

13 simple rules of etiquette in Southeast Asia. Photo Credit: Guille Ibanez, Flick

Do not abuse alcohol and do not take drugs. Keep in mind, the latter are prohibited in many countries and may turn to you, harsh punishments.

Bring the maximum favor while in the country. Buy local food and goods, hire guides / conductors and use local transport. Thus, you give the opportunity to earn local residents and support the country’s economy.