Dining Etiquette Around The World

One of the most exciting aspects of visiting another country is experiencing the local cuisine. Aside from devouring delicious foods, there is much we can learn about the dining etiquette and customs of different cultures. In fact, it’s important to study up on the country in which you plan to visit as something that may feel normal to you could be offensive to those from different backgrounds. For example, did you know that in India, it’s taboo to eat with your left hand because it’s considered unclean? Or in China and Japan, that it’s offensive to leave your chopsticks upright in a bowl between bites because it resembles a ceremonial practice offered at funerals?

Invaluable created a neat visual that outlines some of the most prominent do’s and don’ts when dining abroad. Give it a study so that next time you travel overseas, you’re well versed in the etiquette and customs of the local population.

Emma Welsh is a writer at Invaluable.com, the world’s leading online marketplace for fine art, antiques and collectibles. You can see more of her and her colleagues’ work here.