32 WEIRD CUSTOMS, LAWS, AND GESTURES WORLDWIDE
32 WEIRD CUSTOMS, LAWS, AND GESTURES WORLDWIDE
Many countries have what some people may term weird customs, laws, and or gestures. Depending on where you are from, they might seem somewhat quirky, frown upon, and or punishable offenses. Additionally, some travellers are unaware of most and can end up in uncomfortable situations. Therefore, I am sharing 32 weird customs, laws, and gestures worldwide, which stood out most from some of the countries I have visited. Consequently, they may probably help you to avoid sticky situations when travelling around the world.
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32 Weird Customs, Laws, and Gestures Worldwide
- Crossing your finger signifies hope or good luck. Notwithstanding, in Vietnam, it doesn’t. When flashed, it is rather impolite because it represents the female anatomy.
- In the Philippines, the cute curled one-finger call or gesture is offensive and reserved for calling dogs/animals. Additionally, in Singapore, the motion signifies death.
- Singapore is a super clean country and has strict laws when it comes to littering. Others like smoking or chewing gum in Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) comes with a fine.
- This one is a bit confusing for many, I am sure. In Bulgaria, shaking your head sideways means yes or in agreement (for us, it means no). Whereas in the opposite direction, up and down (nodding) means no or not in agreement (yes for us). Weird right!?
- The “A-okay,” Peace sign, and Thumbs up symbols are disrespectful or provocative in some countries. Coincidentally, so is the Three fingers salute.
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- In some countries, especially Asian countries, do not touch the top of anyone’s head. It is the most sacred part of the body. Furthermore, it is extremely inappropriate to pat it.
- I have never been to Thailand. However. my friend in Thailand relayed that it is illegal to step on Thai money because the Thai royal family is on it. Moreover, defacing any image of the royal family can cause imprisonment.
- When visiting Russia, don’t ask/talk about politics (especially with the older folks). Also, do not criticize the Soviet Union nor the President whether he is loved or not.
- If someone invites you to their home, be sure to know in advance the shoe/foot etiquette. That is because, in some Asian cultures, it is respectful to enter their homes without your shoes. Nevertheless, in others, it is quite the opposite. It is a sign of disrespect to uncover the lowest part of your body, (the sole of your feet) in their homes.
- In almost all the Caribbean islands (except for Bonaire) swearing/profanities (meaning the “F” word) is illegal. You can receive a fine and or serve jail time for doing so.
So, leave your “cussing” at home, or you will face arrest, like 50 Cents was, after cursing on stage, in St. Kitts some years ago.
32 Weird Customs, Laws, and Gestures Worldwide cont.
- When visiting Germany, DO NOT MENTION THE WORD NAZI. Also, do not carry a Nazi symbol on you because it is an arrestable offense.
Regarding this issue, I recently read an article about the arrest of a female traveller at a German airport, who referred to a T.S.A. Officer as a Nazi.
She became irate because of the seizure of a personal item she had in her luggage. Even I have had an episode of a different issue with a T.S.A. Officer at a German airport. See my article Search or Sex at Frankfurt, Airport. So, be on your best behaviour in these airports.
- Avoid using your left hand even if you are a left-hander in some Asian, African, and Middle-Eastern countries. It is impolite to do anything with your left hand because, in their culture/countries, it’s for cleaning the toilets and oneself. Mmmm wow!!
- It is inappropriate to sit next to the opposite sex on public transport, restaurants, etc., in some cultures and countries, unless, of course, you are married.
I remember sitting next to a man from Algeria (as I later found out) on the ferry in Istanbul. As soon as I sat, he got up immediately as though the seat was on fire.
A lady then sat in his place and explained the reason for his actions. The point being, do not be too quick to jump to any conclusions or feel offended if this happens to you.
Remember people travel with their cultures and beliefs as well.
- Leave your camouflage at home when visiting some Caribbean countries like Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, St. Lucia, among others. It is illegal to wear camouflage.
Whether they are pink, green, grey, or any other colour, they are illegal if they are camouflage. Therefore, it will be seized and confiscated (whether you are wearing it or not). It applies to all, old, young, males/females, and even babies.
Therefore, leave camouflage in your country before travelling. So, to avoid taking it off in public.
- In some jurisdictions, necking and kissing in public is an offense that can cause you to spend time in jail. Holding hands is frown upon as well.
32 Weird Customs, Laws, and Gestures Worldwide cont.
- Clinking glass around the world is normal when drinking and celebrating. However, in Hungary, no one clinks their glasses. It is offensive because legend has it that there are some dark and unhappy memories attached to this act.
The reason for this goes back to the 1848 revolution with the execution of some captured Hungarian leaders. The Austrians celebrated this with the clinking of their beers. Hungarians vowed not to cheer or click glasses for over 150 years.
Despite this, I don’t think they will be angry at a foreigner for doing this, but avoid doing so if you can, as a sign of respect. In any case, I think the tradition might be dying with the younger generation.
- In countries like the Vatican City, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and many others, there is a dress code, especially for ladies. Dress appropriately and avoid revealing clothes. Keep your skirts below your knees and shoulders covered.
Point to note: When I was in the U.A.E. I wore tank tops and strapless (with no problem) but never any clothing above the knees). The rules are relaxed to an extent, but it is still unacceptable to wear skimpy, low-cut, revealing, and super-tight outfits.
- In many countries and especially Egypt, if someone invites you to their home for a meal, do not add salt or seasoning to your meal. It is unmannerly and indicates to the host that their food is repulsive.
The funny thing is I always like sprinkling extra salt on my meals, and I always travel with pepper sauce for the many bland foods I purchase. So, imagine me drenching my food with hot sauce,…lol.
- Don’t give yellow flowers to anyone in Russia because it symbolizes deceit, break-ups, or betrayal. Red carnations identify with graveyards and bad omens as well. Added to this, in Mexico, they use red roses on graves, and so it is a no-no. Take note that in China, all cut flowers are for the cemetery.
So, for the Casanovas who are visiting any of these countries. Take note, if you meet a lady you like, be sure not to give her these colour flowers. If in doubt, then surprise her instead with chocolates.
- Avoid the hand signal of the devil’s horn, which is the index and little finger up and the others down. For you, it may be the “rock on” sign, but in many cultures and countries like Italy, Spain, Greece, and others, it is an insult. Moreover, it also signifies infidelity, (meaning a husband is getting “horned” by his wife).
I will curtail all hand signals when travelling to avoid soliciting or offending anyone.
32 Weird Customs, Laws, and Gestures Worldwide cont.
- In France, avoid hugging people you don’t know, instead share a kiss…mmm. Hugging is more intimate than kissing, it seems.
- In some countries, your host expects you to eat every crumb on your plate. Without a doubt, they interpret this to mean that their food was delicious and takes it as a compliment.
However, in China and other Middle-Eastern countries, it is a good idea to leave a little food on the plate. If you clean the plate, the host may interpret this as though they did not provide you with enough food. Nonetheless, in other countries, it is a sign of good manners to leave a little food on the plate, so you do not appear greedy.
- Want to please your host in some Asian countries like China? Then, burping loudly after a meal is advisable, as it indicates the appreciation and enjoyment of the meal. So, try to compliment your host by burping loud and proud. (Take note, in Japan it is bad manners and rather tacky to do this).
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- Are you thinking of flushing your toilet paper in some countries? Well, it’s a no-no in some European countries because the plumbing design does not facilitate the flushing TP.
This one is seriously off for me. I once nearly booked a hotel that did not allow this. Instead, they had a bin in the room dedicated to the soiled toilet paper. Ewww… not for me (thanks to TripAdvisor’s reviews, I was able to avoid booking this hotel).
- It is not a good idea to sprinkle Parmesan cheese on every dish especially, seafood and Pizza when dining in Italy. Parmesan cheese is unacceptable for risotto and pasta dishes. That will definitely offend your host.
- Many countries prohibit public sex. In the United Arab Emirates, it is intolerable, and it is the fastest way to imprison and deport you. That applies to married couples as well.
- Pointing with your index finger can be offensive in countries like Malaysia. It is more polite to gesture with your thumb.
- In some Asian countries, chewing with your mouth open, slurping, and smacking your mouth and food is a sign of appreciation and enjoyment of your food.
- When in Italy, do not order Cappuccino with lunch or after dinner. It is almost a culinary crime. Cappuccino is solely a breakfast drink.
- Drinking alcohol in public or having an open bottle in your car is a crime in many countries. In many Islamic countries like the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, drinking alcohol in public is also an offense. Added to this, you are not allowed to bring alcohol into Qatar.
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- Many Islamic countries prohibit same-sex relations. So, if you are so inclined, it is best to vacation elsewhere. It is for these reasons that it is always wise to research a country before visiting.
- In Qatar, unmarried couples are not allowed to stay together in the same room at any hotel. Married couples must show proof of marriage upon request. In the U.A.E., this once strict law is a bit more relaxed, and unmarried couples can stay together. For more about Doha, Qatar, and my review of it, click here.
The Takeaway
It is highly impossible to know all the weird customs, laws, and gestures worldwide that might be deemed inappropriate and or illegal. Consequently, it could be an oversight not knowing the main/relevant ones in the countries you visit. More than likely, when planning your vacation, you are sure to come across a few through research.
Therefore, take note of the 32 weird customs, laws, and gestures worldwide that can help you fit in with the locals or avoid any embarrassing moments. We don’t have to accept them all, but compliance with those that can get you a fine is for your benefit. Remember, as a traveller, ignorance of the law is no excuse. So, now you have pertinent information, Be sure to take note on your next vacation. Enjoy.
Please share some of the quirky customs, laws, and gestures in your country. I would love to hear about them.
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That of Bulgaria really got me; shaking your head sideways meaning yes and nodding your head up and down means no lol
Also, it is not just Caribbean countries like Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, St. Lucia, that it is illegal to wear camouflage. Most African countries do not tolerate it, especially in Nigeria, you dare not wear camouflage!!! You will receive the embarrassment (beating) of your life!!! Hehe
I really enjoyed your article. It’s a good read. Keep it up Cory
yes Bulgaria head shake is funny. You get a beating for wearing camouflage in Nigeria? now that is funny to me.. hahha would love to see that
Very interesting article, Cory, and quite amusing and quirky customs in some of these countries. Some are quite confusing too: Yes means no, no means yes: I guess you’d have to always speak to be properly understood, providing they can understand your language! I really enjoyed reading about these quirks and customs. Looking forward to more info!
Hi Liz as always I see you love to read and enjoy my articles as well. I am happy to share and inform as usual.Soon you will be travelling from all this information you have garnered here…
Hi dear Cora. Your Article is great again and thank you for share us. Yes you are right many companies and my country of Turkey has different cultural behaviour. For example children can not start eating at dinner before than their father’s,. They also can not talk with elder peoples without permission. Your observation is really great and you are real travel-author. I am so happy to know you. I wish all the best for you dear Cora…
Hi Mehmet thank you. Wow some custom you have there in Turkey, I guess its a sign of authority and respect. Happy you shared it. We live in a very interesting.
Really weird, but nice, that you tell us this:) thanks a lot, i will know that now:)). I didnt see any of Lithuania. Dint you find any that was weird here? Very good writing nonetheless cory..
Thank you Tomq, well to be honest I didnt find any in Lithuania, maybe there are many but I didnt notice, I noticed only that most of you guys are tall both men and women and don’t smile. lol
Cory, these are really intresting customs that are relevant to the various countries around the world, i can see how one can run into trouble with the law or offend someone without even thinking, research before travel is sooo recommended.
Yep. you must esp. when travelling alone in unfamiliar territories.
you never know for sure what to do when you’re in a foreign country but number 4 and 5 are so crazy….I like this post very much…you have to be very careful traveling with these weird cultures
Yes indeed Donato very, well I have been to these countries and survived, so its all good. Its what makes the world intersting. Really happy you like it.
Haha swearing and using f-Word in carribean is illlegal. In Bulgaria and Sebiaa this is the most common thing. We have a special Word for the swear with f, even we dont say f… you we say f… Your Mother
hahaha yes it is..and who can use more F words than Caribbean people esp men..but its all good..I still think its silly..you Bulgarians are crazy with the head shakes though.
Hi what some strange laws and customs but it is what it is. The thing is to read about where your going and ask questions don’t get caught off hand but some these laws need to be put on the back burner and face some the changes of the new world but yet some has to be kept to keep that custom in some countries
Hi Eric, I agree with you, esp. the laws of sing obscene language in public, people still do it, just not in front of the police…I think that one is quite silly.
Thank you for infomation. It is very good. It is true what you mention on in Greece, hahaha. we all have our weird things . very goo and I enjoy learning these things, I hope stay safe from covid-19.
Thank you Xaris..I am always happy to share. You also take care and stay safe.
a very interesting article, Cory, I learned many customs that I did not know. For my part, I can confirm the Italian ones regarding “parmiggiano” and cappuccino. Furthermore, in Italy clothing is very important when visiting places of worship otherwise you cannot enter. in particular, low-cut and skimpy dresses cannot be worn. I will keep your advice in mind on future trips.
Happy to hear you have learned some new info. Yes you Italians and this cheese thing etc. your pasta is also a bit more aldente than in some other places. Some people are so accustomed to pasta cooked so soft. I miss Italy..more so Florence. Thanks for reaching out Emllio..
hey Cory some of these are so weird truly. Esp Bulgaria nod means no? Lol and many others I didnt know about. I know Germany dont want any reminders of Hitler for sure. Never knew all these hand gestures in other countries were also so serious .i really appreciate you sharing all this information with us. Very nice read for sure..never boring and very informative. Keep it up.
You are welcome…I am happy your learned some more travel information. Thanks as usual for the feedback
Whoa!! It’s a good thing to read this, now you just gotta remember everything, for the place you want to go. It would be a bad idea, not to know some in certain places. I know in France they clean there butts with soap and water, so it’s actually cleaner than here, Especially if you got a hairy butt. I was really surprised to know a lot of this, and I’d advise anyone who is an active traveler to read this. Before it’s too late.
omgg hahahaha TMI Dessaints funny, yes I know about washing this way, in many Muslim counties I have experienced this, Malaysia esp. I don’t care what cleaner this way, I don’t like it. Yes its good to research before you travel..
Super cool article. I hear about a guy who was deported from Germany after he said Hi hitler
Hahahaha I can believe it, after my so called pat down in Germany,but its what makes travel exciting..Thanks Cornel
It seems in some countries doing one act considered polite,and the similar action considered impolite and offensive.
My suggestion is to learn some basic rules before traveling abroad
Very much so, that’s why I am here to share. It is also why I research a country before vising as well.
Good writing cory. I learn many things, what is no issue in my country I see is big problem in other. I really enjoy learning so much from you.thank you
Always happy to share Garry, glad you enjoyed it.
Hi . CORY very good information as usual. in Bulgaria very crazy about head movement. I know, very strange laws around the world indeed. In your country no obscene language and no camouflage? wow. really good to know before travelling. thanks
You are quiet welcome.. It will be a boring world if some things are not different..glad you enjoyed