Know these taboos if you want to be a proper world traveller

godfred akoto

August 15, 2017 8:42 AM

Learn the culture of whichever country you find yourself in

Have you ever found yourself the subject of several displeased glares because you did something while travelling in a foreign country.

Different cultures have different attitudes to things that might be considered normal.

Business Insider SSA lists some interesting stories.

Using your left hand to gesticulate, shake hands, greet, wave, collect or receive items are frowned upon in a lot of African cultures. So be wary.

Smelling food is seen as a very rude thing to do in a lot of African countries. There is always the propensity for tourists or foreigners to smell food before a first tasting. If you are not the one cooking the meal avoid this.

It is a taboo to sweep at night .In Ghana this is an absolute that is adhered to almost religiously. The purpose of this is to avoid sweeping away valuable items.

If you are in Asia beware how you use chopsticks. This versatile dining accessory should never be left sticking in your meal the way you would your spoon or fork and knife because it is considered ill luck. A lot of Asian cultures pay respect to the dead with chopsticks stuck in a bowl of rice.

If you you see a Ghanaian put a bowl of soup to face and slurp during a meal,do not be disgusted. Slurping is acceptable and not bad table manners. Asians also appreciate slurping to show how tasty a meal was.

godfred akoto