Culture & Society

Greeting Customs Around the World

A traveler shares what greeting customs in different countries taught him about politeness.

B17 min

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1When I visited Japan, I learned that people bow to greet each other.

2The deeper the bow, the more respect you show to the other person.

3In France, my friends kiss each other lightly on both cheeks.

4At first this felt strange to me, because we only shake hands.

5In India, people press their palms together and say a gentle greeting.

6In some countries, a firm handshake shows confidence and honesty.

7In others, a soft handshake is polite, and a firm one seems rude.

8These customs taught me that politeness looks different in every culture.

9Now I always watch what local people do before I greet anyone.

10A smile, however, seems to mean the same thing everywhere.

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