CUSTOMS AROUND THE WORLD
This custom of bargaining over prices is known as "haggling" and is common in many Middle Eastern markets
price negotiation
Breaking this common household item is said to bring 7 years of bad luck
mirror
Original facts: Haggling is very unusual in Switzerland. Haggling is common in India.
Haggling in India is twice as common as it is in Switzerland.
People ... regularly visit fortune tellers for guidance
used to
What does 'appropriate' mean? Explain why putting feet on a desk might be inappropriate.
Appropriate means something is acceptable. Putting feet on a desk is typically inappropriate as it shows lack of respect for property and can be distracting.
This greeting custom in France involves light kisses on both cheeks
la bise
In many cultures, this animal crossing your path is considered unlucky
Black Cat
Shaking hands is nearly as common as making eye contact in England.
In medieval Europe, this common table item was considered so valuable it was often kept locked away
Salt
What's the difference between 'awkward' and 'embarrassing'?
Awkward means something difficult to deal with or makes you feel uncomfortable. Embarrassing means something that makes you feel ashamed, shy or uncomfortable.
In Japan, this object is never stuck vertically in rice as it resembles funeral rituals
chopsticks
In Kenya, killing this reptile is believed to cause a drought
snake
Weddings are very popular in Egypt. Less popular in Japan.
Weddings in Japan are half as popular as they are in Egypt.
This wedding tradition of wearing something old, new, borrowed and blue originated in Victorian England
Bridal Attire
What does 'acceptable' versus 'unacceptable' mean in society?
Acceptable means something agreed upon or approved by most people in society. Unacceptable means something so bad that it should not be allowed.
In this Scandinavian country, arriving exactly on time is considered extremely important
Sweden
According to Chinese superstition, doing this cleaning activity at night can sweep away your wealth
sweeping the floor
Being late is unusual in Switzerland. Being late is normal in Mexico City.
Being late is just as unusual as haggling in Switzerland.
Ancient Romans ___ consult bird flight patterns to make important decisions
would
How do we define 'polite' versus 'impolite' behavior?
Polite means having/showing good manners and respect for others. Impolite means to not be polite or respectful.
In this Asian practice, removing these things before entering someone's home shows respect
leaving shoes at the door
This number is considered so unlucky in many East Asian countries that buildings often skip it in floor numbering
4
Giving gifts after childbirth is common in North America. Making eye contact is common too.
Gift-giving after childbirth is almost as common as making eye contact in North America.
In ancient China, this painful tradition was seen as a sign of beauty and status for women
foot binding
What's the difference between 'rude' and 'pleasant' behavior?
Rude means showing lack of respect for others and their feelings. Pleasant means being kind, friendly and polite.