How we live: Different Customs Around The World

By Mai Kawamoto

Every country has its own customs. In one country some customs could be regarded as normal but in another country the same custom could be considered to be impolite.For example, in Asia we often share food. But in America normally get their own dish. Moreover, for European the sharing a food is regarded as unsanitary.
Another custom, in some countries they always give a kiss and hug as greeting. But in Asia the showing of affection in public is unacceptable. Asian would feel embraced by this action. Normally they just say hello or shake hands as a greeting. One American said about this Asian greeting style is very formal.

Holidays

Depending on the country, the way holidays are celebrated can be different. On Valentine’s day in Asia only woman give chocolate to the man who is their boyfriend, fellow worker and family. So this day is a big day for Asian women. They confess love to their man with courage. Furthermore in Asia a unique day exists. We call it White Day. It is on March 3rd. The man, who got chocolate from the woman the previous Valentine’s Day, gives back some cookies or presents to his womon. On the other hand, in some countries a couple gives chocolate to each other on the Valentine’s Day. Christmas is celebrated in different ways depending on the country. In Asia we celebrate it with our partner or significant other. But in some countries, Christmas is for the family. Accordingly, they celebrate with their family on that day.

Friendly strangers in America

Most international Asian woman must get some strange feelings from Americans when they experience the Americans friendly hello. For Asians it is rare to talk to strangers without need. Asians can get permission to talk to strangers only when a man tries to pick a woman up and ask her out on a date. As a result international Asian woman are surprised at the situation and feel friendly strangers here are impolite. One Korean girl said “when a stranger said hello to me the first time in America, I was astonished by it. And I ignore him. It seems like it does not matter who the stranger is to the American. I can not be friendly without the person’s information.” However one American said “why are Asian people so cautious? We are happy to see new faces and try to welcome any visitors”. Asian people are not accustomed to having strangers on the street smile, nod, or say hello to them. This is shocking and sometimes is seen as intimidating because in Asian countries, people keep to themselves. The friendliness is sometimes very pleasant and welcomed but in some cases we are not sure what the intent is from the Americans.

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