Don’t Touch An Indian
The tips are designed to “enhance cultural awareness, avoid misunderstandings and boost performance in caring for visitors,” according to VisitBritain.
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September 11, 2010 at 12:20 AM
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| Britain’s national tourism agency is advising operators in the country’s tourist sector to be tolerant of Indians and to avoid touching them. VisitBritain has developed a comprehensive country-specific guide of cultural dos and don’ts in preparation for the 2012 Olympics, in which it recommends: “Be tolerant if Indians at first seem impolite, noisy and impatient. This is partly the result of living in chaotic cities and environments. They usually appreciate orderliness when they see it.” It adds: “Avoid physical contact when first meeting someone from India. Being touched or approached too closely in initial meetings can be considered offensive, even if the intention is entirely innocent or friendly.” The guide says that: “Indians are in general, an impatient lot, and like to be quickly attended to. The more affluent they are, the more demanding and brusque they tend to be.” The tips are designed to “enhance cultural awareness, avoid misunderstandings and boost performance in caring for visitors,” according to VisitBritain. Its other tips: A smiling Japanese person is not necessarily happy as they tend to smile when angry, embarrassed, sad or disappointed. Don’t be offended by Argentinian humor, which may mildly attack your clothing or weight. Avoid winking at someone from Hong Kong . Visitors from the United Arab Emirates can take great offence if you appear bossy. In a social situation with a South African, do not place your thumb between your forefinger and your second finger — it is an obscene gesture. Do not ask a Brazilian personal questions, such as their age or salary. Never call a Canadian an American. Avoid saying “thank you” to a Chinese compliment. Instead, politely deny a compliment to show humility. Americans can appear informal to the point of being very direct or even rude. |
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