Don't embarrass yourself! Know the customs of the countries you visit

Politeness is a universal art, but the way to practice it varies greatly from one country to another. If you are invited by people abroad, the cultural shift can cause you to commit a mistake without realizing it. Let's have a look at some of the local traditions you should take into account when travelling to the four corners of the globe.

If you work in the world of diplomacy or business, keeping these cultural differences in mind is particularly important. As diplomat Jean Lévy says in 'Échos': “People believe that the world is globalized, but no! How many markets have failed because of cultural misunderstandings?"

In France, the meal has a particular importance and certain customs must absolutely be respected if you are invited there. Above all, don't take the expression "make yourself at home" literally: it's an invitation to relax, not to serve yourself without authorization from the host or to poke around in their home.

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Clothing is also important in France: always come dressed properly, even in a more informal setting. It's better to look too stuffy than too vulgar!

In England, it is important to bring drinks with you – both for yourself and for your host – when you're invited somewhere. "One bottle for a couple isn't enough, to be honest," Chris York of the Huffington Post UK says.

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The Germans dine quite early and are very strict about punctuality. Contrary to the custom of many other countries, they expect their guests to come precisely at the appointed time and not a little later. The maximum delay tolerated is about 15 minutes.

In Spain, the opposite goes: you will always be invited after 9 pm and you should not arrive earlier.

In Italy, never ask - under any circumstance! - for a spoon to eat your pasta or any other dish. It is also frowned upon to leave food on your plate, so make an effort to finish all your food, even when you are no longer hungry.

In Greece, rule number 1 is never to arrive empty-handed. You can bring a drink or a dessert, but flowers and especially potted plants that can grow on a balcony or in a garden are particularly appreciated.

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In Russia, the vodka ritual accompanies meals and you'd best comply with it so as not to offend your hosts. It can be difficult, but don't refuse this little drink!

In Morocco, as in other northern African countries, you can bring food or gifts. But unless you know that your host drinks, avoid bringing wine to the dinner party. it could be perceived as offensive.

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When you are invited to a Canadian home, don't forget to bring a small gift to thank your host, even if they didn't ask you for it. This little gesture is appreciated everywhere in the great country.

Unlike the French, Brazilians are serious when they tell you to make yourself at home: you can help yourself to food and beverages but also help cook or clear the table. A golden rule: never come at the indicated time, unless it has been explicitly requested by your host.

While some areas prefer maté to coffee, you should not leave an Argentinian house before having participated in its coffee tasting. The drink has a strong symbolic importance and corresponds to a real moment of sharing during the day or in the evening.

In South Korea, after taking off your shoes, remember to compliment your host on their house, the meal they serve, and so on. Also, don't start eating before the host!

In Japan, the cardinal rule is to not speak too loudly. Making noise in other people's homes is perceived as a lack of care and respect in a country whose metropolises are very densely populated.

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