Fascinating map highlights the unique and sometimes surprising etiquette practices across the globe

It is extremely important to have some knowledge about the culture of a country an individual wants to visit. Having an understanding not only enhances one's travel escapades, it is also a great way of broadening one's horizons. Respect towards their culture and traditions can help individuals foster meaningful relationships with people in a foreign land. In order to help people with the dos and don'ts they need to follow while taking a trip to a foreign land, Remitly has created an etiquette map. The map showcases gestures and practices that are important for various cultures in the world. It guides people in how to operate when they are in a foreign land.

The etiquette showcased how different and unique each culture is from the other. Customs form as a result of a country's history and therefore are always close to heart for its citizens. Hence, visitors must make a genuine effort to learn them. Actions that hold no significance in one place might be a huge priority in others. Therefore, being aware and knowledgeable about these gestures is important, as it is very easy to commit to an action thinking it is agreeable at a place where it is absolutely not.

The contrast in customs in different countries is interesting to note. In Canada, it doesn't matter if an individual arrives late but in Austria, it is a show of carelessness and considered inappropriate. Practices like tipping hold a lot of weight in America but not in places like Slovenia. Norwegians consider eating by hand unhygienic but in Mexico the best way to relish their delicacies like tacos is believed to be through their hands. Chinese, do not like people who flip a fish, as they think it will bring bad luck for people.

The map makes it evident how so many cultural etiquettes are intimately attached to food. Food can be considered as a symbol of many things when it comes to cultures, such as their overall temperament and preferences. Egypt and Portugal, find the addition of salt to food on the table, unfitting. Luxembourg believes that chewing gum in front of anybody showcases vulgarity. Sierra Lonne believes that people should always leave some leftovers after finishing up their food. Terminologies also take a different form in different places. In Australia, once a person has eaten to their utmost capacity, it is rude to say “I'm stuffed˝, as it is considered to imply that the one saying it is pregnant.

The most beautiful part of going on a trip anywhere is meeting new people. Different rules are in play in different places when it comes to operating in a conversation. Ukranians firmly believe that the person who invites is the person responsible for paying. There is no custom of sharing the bill in such situations. While in Saudi Arabia checking time during a conversation or meeting indicates that an individual is not respectful of the other party. South Koreans host Karaoke to entertain their guests, and as a show of respect visitors should partake in it.

The way of expressing fondness is also unique across various cultures. In Iceland and Senegal, if an individual burps, it means that they have loved the food. While, in Japan, slurping is used as a way to thank the host for food. The map is easy to understand and gives a quick view of customs that are followed all over the world. There are some general tips though that travellers can keep in mind while travelling for a better experience, according to My Modern Met. These tips include not pointing fingers at people, respecting everyone's energy as well as time, and greeting elders.