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Hungarian Social and Dining Etiquette - Customs of Hungary

29/7/2026

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Hungarikum
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This term is a combination of “Hungary,” or “Hungaria” and ‘‘unikum’’ meaning “unique.” Hungarians view themselves as citizens quite different from those of other European countries. It can refer to their food, family values, language, folk music, dancing, etiquette and respect. 

The Hungarian language – Magyer— is a unique language that stands under the umbrella of the Uralic language family. The closest known language to Hungarian is the Finnish. Many Hungarians mention this to show uniqueness and it is a source of pride. Hungarians are very respectful and etiquette oriented and will be very aware to show it and expect it to be returned.

Hungarian Names
Before knowing how to use Hungarian greetings it is wise to understand how Hungarians name themselves.
  • Hungarians will use surname then first name: Kovács Erzsébet.
  • Hungarians will introduce themselves using their surname first and then first name.
  • Some married women may want to keep their maiden surname or take on their husbands or take on both names. The word: né is an indicator of marital status. Example: If a woman’s name is “Kovács Erzsébet” and her husband’s name is “Nagy Imre,” she may choose “Nagy Imrené” or she may choose “Kovácsné Nagy Erzsébet.”
  • Children traditionally will take on the father’s surname. Hyphenated names are becoming more common than in the past.
  • As a term of endearment between friends and family, names can be shortened. For example, men named “Zoltan,” will be called “Zoli.” Or women named “Erzsébet,” may be called “Erzi” as a shortened name.
  •  Traditionally, Hungarians may have been named after a religious saint.

Hungarian Greetings 
  • In the past, greetings have been gender and aged based.
  • It’s best to wait until you are told how a person wants to be addressed, before addressing someone you are meeting.
  • The older generation may bow to you.
  • If you are known by someone and you have met several times, the person will then use your first name.
  • A firm handshake and making eye contact is a suitable greeting.
  • Friends and relatives will greet each other with a hug and kiss on each cheek, starting on the left side.
  • Men will shake hands only if the women extends her hand first.
  • Adults will greet children and teenagers by their first names.
  • Children and teenagers will be told how to address an adult.
  • During Soviet rule, many Hungarian honorifics were erased from social greetings.

Hungarian Families
Hungarians love their families and the centre of the social structure. Grandparents play an important role in helping to raising and teaching their grandchildren. They have strong ties with their immediate family and will live in proximity to their children. In years before, extended families often lived together and may still in the country areas. Food plays a huge role between families and friends. It is a way to show love and generosity.

Hungarians have tended to a patriarchal society, where the male is the authority. Historically, in some country areas, women ate around the dining room, whilst the men sat on chairs at the table. Today city and suburban areas, the main decision makers are both partners and families have modernised in customs and attitudes.
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Hungarian Dining Etiquette
Hungarian pride resides in that Hungarians enjoy using the correct forms and want everyone to do the same. Here are forms of etiquette to know:


  • Arriving on time is key in showing respect, you will have 5 – 10 minutes “grace time.” At a party you will have a grace period of 30 minutes.
  • Replying to an invitation is essential, in a few days of receiving it, not at the last minute.
  • Many houses require that you take off your shoes and you will be given slippers, otherwise known as “papucs.”
  • Its rude to walk around the house, you are there for socialising, building relationships and enjoying the home cooking and hospitality.
  • When in the company of a person, humming, fidgeting, whistling is considered impolite.
  • Never make disparaging remarks about Hungarian food, wine and spirits. 
  • If you have religious requirements or food allergies, please make your host aware beforehand, never on the day!
  • When sneezing, use a tissue. 
  • When yawning your mouth should be covered. 
  • Never pick your teeth in front of guests or family. 
  • Elbows never go onto the table.
  • If you are not a close friend, arriving unannounced to someone’s house will cause unease.
  • Always use your formal dining manners at any meal and wait for the host to start.
  • Most Hungarian meals will be a three-course meal and sometimes even more.
  • Breakfast will be a quick and light meal. Lunch traditionally was the main meal of the day however dinner is fast becoming the main meal.
  • Leaving food on your plate is considered rude, as is seasoning your meal with salt and pepper. It may be showing you do not like the food or that the chef is a bad cook.
  • If you do not want your glass to be re-filled, leave ½ of wine in the glass. Traditionally, it has been the male of the house that will fill your glass.
  • Leaving your place setting neat and tidy with cutlery in the correct place on your plate when finished is a sign of politeness.
  • It is traditional for the host to offer and re-offer food and drinks during your lunch or dinner. Offering food and beverages are an indicator of friendship and hospitality.
  • You may be served palinka which is a fruit brandy, before or after a meal. Your host will want to drink it with you. Before drinking you will look your host or guests in their eyes, clink glasses and say to your health: Egészségedre or to our health: Egészségünkre.
  • Never clink glasses with beer. This goes back to Hungary's 1848 revolution against the Habsburgs. Hungarians vowed not clinking glasses should happen for 150 years. Even now that the time period has now ended, it is still not done.
  • When invited, bring gifts such as chocolates, flowers or Western liquor that cannot be found in the supermarket or local corner shop.
  • Never bring wine as national pride lies in the wine that is produced in Hungary.
  • When bringing a gift, it may be opened in front of you and be thanked for it.
  • Many people are superstitious in Hungary and avoid the number 13. When bringing flowers check the number of flowers making sure the total is an odd number. Also avoid lilies, chrysanthemums or red roses.

Talking Topics
  • One of the Hungarian characteristics is the love of socialising and sharing stories.
  • Positively talking about food, wine, spirits and the how you want to visit certain places in Hungary one day, or even your great experiences traveling there, asking about their family members or talking about good friendships you have had with other Hungarians, will win friends
  • Talking about bodily functions, animals, World War I & II, Communism, a person’s economic means, ethnic minorities in Hungary (which may include gypsies and refugees), may be offensive and make your host unhappy.
  • Great talking topics: Rubik’s Cube invented by Ernő Rubik, the biro pen invented by László Bíró, Vitamin C discovered by Albert Szent-Györgyi, Olympic Games where476 medals were won. Winning the FIFA World Cup in 1954.

Article Published By: Etiquipedia.blogspot.com
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Etiquette and Customs of Ethiopia

29/7/2026

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Growing up, my introduction to Ethiopia was of war and famine. Pictures of starving Ethiopians sitting under branchless trees flashed on the TV screens in 1983. Two years later on 13th July 1985, the mega star-studded, music-based fundraising event, Live Aid, blasted over the media. Ethiopia wouldn’t make the travel magazines’ top 10 dream destinations for quite a while.

Fast-forward 30 years and a trip to East Africa which I was invited to join. I couldn't say no. Africa fascinates me to this day. The carrier I flew was Ethiopian Airlines, which was an experience to remember! I've never had to catch my food tray before, and there was absolutely no turbulence. I'm not sure why the attendants were in such a hurry.


How to Greet Ethiopians
Never rush or hurry your greeting. Ethiopians are a hospitable people, with a warm and caring culture, so they are curious about those visiting their country for the first time. You are expected to stand, perform your greeting, acknowledge the other person, and talk for a short while. It is polite to take an interest in those you meet. Inquire about a person’s health, their children, their family or their work.


Age and Status in Greetings
A long-standing ancient culture, Ethiopians expect that age and status matter. The elderly, or someone of higher status, is greeted first, and with great respect, such as taking their hands to kiss them, or the greeter could bow and lower their head and say ‘Indemin not’. The eldest in a group is also the first to take food from a communal dish, while the youngest are the last to help themselves. 

The younger generation may use light handshaking and eye contact upon meeting and greeting someone new. Close friends may kiss and hug upon seeing each other up to four or more times and have a very extended embrace. 

Physical touch may differ between religious associations and ethnic groups. While some Muslims may physically touch during greetings, others may greet verbally only.
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​How to Start a Conversation with an Ethiopian
Ethiopia has approximately 90 or more different languages, Amharic being the official language. Therefore, greetings are expected to be courteous, even if speakers do not share the same language. ‘Salam’ is the most widely used informal greeting, similar to saying hello. ‘Tena yistilin’ is a respectful, formal greeting, translating to “May God give you health”. When asking “How are you?”, the phrase changes depending on the gender of the person you're addressing, with ‘Indemin nih?’ for men and ‘Indemin nish?’ for women.

Ethiopian Pride
Ethiopians love talking about their nation’s role in human history. Topics include the Queen of Sheba, who features in the Bible, ‘Lucy,’ a non-hominin ape, their most famous beverage—coffee—and the ancient churches which are carved in mountains. These topics and more will lead to spirited conversations with locals.

Ethiopia Today
When I travelled to Ethiopia, I found that the country had returned to normality after the shocking images of 1983. My friend and I were warmly welcomed  and
well-treated by the Ethiopian people. We walked the streets and toured around Addis Ababa, a well-planned city with wide, dusty roads. 


Unfortunately, on my trip I merely was able to touch the surface of the Ethiopian culture. There was so much more that I wanted to know and understand. I hope to return some day in the future.

Article Published By: Etiquipedia.blogspot.com
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Etiquette When Visiting Australia - Australian Etiquette

29/7/2026

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One of the most famous advertisements encouraging people to travel to the ‘Land Down Under’ featured an Australian actor, Paul Hogan, made famous by the movie ‘Crocodile Dundee’. The Australian Tourism Commission, during the 80’s, coined a phrase which went viral, “I'll slip an extra shrimp on the barbie for you” together with the ad’s byline “Come and Say G’day”. Not only had both of these phrases been made famous worldwide, but also in Australia. We all said it at one time; it was really catchy.

Something I need you to know before you come to Australia….we actually don’t say shrimp! We say prawns. As this ad was targeting those Americans, the word prawn was exchanged. Australia is a unique country. When traveling, you will find each state is different and has its own history, attitudes, vibe and weather.

History of Australia
The Indigenous people of Australia, known as Aboriginals and Torres Strait Islanders, were the original custodians of the land, making their way from Southeast Asia. From the 17thcentury, Dutch navigators discovered land by sailing around the western and southern coasts, naming it New Holland. Lieutenant James Cook, in 1770, explored the east coast and declared it for Great Britain. Australia’s name came from the Portuguese term noted in 1606 by explorer Pedro Fernandes de Queirós, referring to the island of New Guinea and beyond as ‘La Austrialia del Espiritu Santo’. This term changed to ‘Terra Australis Incognita’ from the Latin for ‘Unknown South Land,’ and then in 1814 changed to Australia.

Due to mass overcrowding in prisons in Great Britain in 1788, Australia was used as a penal colony. As a result, those from England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland settled and dispossessed Aboriginals and Torres Strait Islanders and treated them as they previously treated those who lived in South America, India, and the Caribbean. Eventually, by 1901, Australia became the Commonwealth of Australia and became a federation of six self-governing states, after a resolution was passed in the British Parliament.

Today, Australia is a very multicultural country. Throughout history, Australia has needed the influx of migrants to help grow and expand the Australian economy and rugged land. Global conflicts, including both World Wars and the Vietnam War, caused major waves of immigration from Europe and Asia, and other international territories.

Australian Etiquette – Do’s and Don’ts
Informal greetings are appropriate in an Australian social setting, always use a person’s first name unless you are told otherwise. The most common verbal introduction is Hey, Hello or Hi. In-country and remote areas, some Australians will use slang such as G’day or G’day mate. In the city areas, you will hear introductions such as Hey, how are you? Your response should be, I’m good, thanks. How are you? This will help you break the ice. Commonly used greetings are handshakes, and a head nod is a standard greeting amongst men and some women. Australians do have an accent that is recognisable worldwide. The accent can change depending on the state they are from.

Making sure that your handshake is firm hand and eye contact is made. Australians love good eye contact. As Australia is multicultural, different physical greetings may be given, such as air kisses or hugs. Watch for cues from your group or individual. As a lead-in after the introductions, the state of the weather will be mentioned. Australians love traveling and new experiences, so a way of connecting is talking about the country you are working in or from.

Australians can speak in two ways, with diplomacy – “beat around the bush” or bluntly. “ They didn’t “beat around the bush”. As you have read, Australians do have their own language or ‘lingo’. Here are a few terms you need to know:
  • ‘Cheers’ or ‘Ta’ – Thank you.
  • ‘Good on ya’ – Well done or the opposite.
  • ‘Yeah, nah’ – No thank you.
  • ‘Yah reckon’ – Do you think so?
  • ‘It’s my shout’ – I will pay for both of us.
Find more terms in this article: A Guide To Basic Australian Slang

Australians love those who are open to talk, good listeners, and take the initiative. Those who are unfamiliar with a group take the opportunity to introduce themselves. It is also assumed at an event that you will make the effort to speak to people and mingle. Australians love humour and love to laugh. The Australian humour can be described as witty, quick, dry, and sarcastic. Those who love to do this are often called a ‘larrikin’. Many Australians swear, and don’t be surprised if a word or three comes out while speaking.
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Australian Dining Etiquette
Australia's food once heavily reflected the British style, which was meat and vegetables, until the 1950s. With the arrival of immigrants to Australia, notably after the Second World War, they brought their cuisines and beverage traditions, such as coffee-making, with them. See article: Millions have taken advantage and happily embrace multi-cultural and indigenous cuisines. Australians have adopted the British way of setting the table and using cutlery; however, over time, Australians have learnt to use chopsticks and to use the fork and spoon for Asian-type foods.

The Australian food that it's famous for is its BBQ. We love a barbecue, the taste that emanates from the cooking on an iron grill is like no other. For more information on the etiquette of being invited to a traditional Australian BBQ, read: Australian BBQ Etiquette.

I remember when I was travelling in Turin, Italy, and needing a caffeine fix, I found a café that was attached to Palazzo Reale di Torino. I spoke in English, the barista picked up that I was from Australia, and without me having to say anything, he asked, “Do you want a cappuccino, your style?” I was in awe…he knew what an Australian cappuccino was! I couldn’t stop smiling. Australians love coffee with extra milk. If you want to know more about café etiquette in Australia, please see this article: Australian Café Etiquette Tips.

So, does Australia do ‘tip’ at restaurants and cafes? The answer is no, generally. This is because Australian labour laws have made sure that hospitality workers are fully remunerated. Tipping is an optional extra. If you have had outstanding service and feel you want to reward the work of the individual(s), you can tip 5-10% of the total bill at a restaurant or café, drop a note or coins in the ‘tip jar’.

Australian Unique Food Etiquette
Australia also has a reputation for unusual and unique foods. Aussies love these sweet and savory dishes, which can be bought everywhere and freshly made in many restaurants and cafes.

The history of Tim Tams started in 1964, based on a British product called Penguin and named after a horse that won the Kentucky Derby in 1958. Today, it’s an Australian staple that you will find in most kitchen cupboards. You bite two opposite ends of the rectangular chocolate biscuit to suck up coffee through it, making it gooey and warm.

Vegemite was developed to re-create a local alternative to British Marmite using leftover brewer's yeast when imports were disrupted following World War I. Vegemite is used sparingly with lots of melted butter (not margarine) on hot, crispy toast bread for breakfast.

Pavlova was invented by Herbert Sachse in 1935. Working in the kitchen at the Esplanade Hotel in Perth created this delicious masterpiece after the Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova. The base is sugar and egg whites baked and cooled for cream to sit on top with fruits such as strawberries and sliced kiwifruit. The cake needs to be served lying flat on the plate, as you will not be able to eat it standing up.


ANZAC Biscuits were invented by Australian wives and women's groups around 1914 to 1915, to send to soldiers fighting abroad as they wouldn't spoil on long overseas voyages. Primarily made of rolled oats, flour, sugar, butter and golden syrup. Aussies love to eat this for morning tea with a cappuccino or tea.

Traveling Etiquette in Australia
What can you expect when traveling to Australia? What many forget is that, like Europe or the United States, Australia is so large that you need to take time to travel from state to state. You will be using airlines to get to places, as well as trains and buses. Australia’s love their ‘space’ and are used to wide and open areas and listening to nature. Understanding this, you should know that pushing and jostling to get on and off transport is discouraged, and speaking with the loudspeaker on is a huge no-no. Please also note that if you push into a queue or take yourself to the front of the queue, you will be promptly and firmly told to go back to your original place… very quickly. Another thing that is abhorrent is spitting in public or throwing rubbish. It is seen as rude and shocking. You can even get fined for throwing rubbish out of the car’s window.

Australian Flora and Fauna Etiquette
Flora and fauna are extremely important to Australians. Many, when describing home, will tell you about the beautiful trees, green lawns, nature walks in forests, and pristine beaches, however keenly aware of the dangers of the land. We have all learnt through school, family, and friends, to respect Australia’s biodiversity and ecosystems.

All of us grow up knowing that you cannot touch spiders, snakes, koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, quokkas, Tasmanian devils, swim with jellyfish, or pick up octopuses while casually strolling the beach, jump in lakes, or swim at beaches, especially in the north of Australia's Top End, due to the crocodiles. Yes, we are cautious and yet immune. If you find an injured, sick or orphaned native animal, such as kangaroos, wombats or koalas, as soon as possible, deliver them to an authorised wildlife shelter in the area.

Australian Beach Etiquette
All Australians have been to a beach and many take holidays to relax next to one of the 11,000+ beaches around the island. Here is what you need to know when claiming your spot on the sands with your friends and family.
  • Be very cautious as to where you swim if you are not a strong swimmer. Not all beaches have the red and yellow flags set up on the beach to tell you that this is a ‘safe zone’ and patrolled by lifeguards. Australians grow up having swimming lessons in primary school year after year, foreigners who have not grown up with this culture need to be alert.
  • There are designated areas for surfing, jet skiing, and boating. There have been many accidents, some fatal, when both are using the same area. Those who are catching fish, day or night, are allowed as “per council rules”. They are permitted to do so only away from swimming zones. 
  • When you arrive at the beach, claim the sandy area that puts space between you and others. Australians hate being ‘jammed’ or close together. Playing ball or frisbee sports on a busy and packed beach is definitely not advised and you may be yelled at or spoken to by the lifeguards. If there are those in bikinis and thongs, it's rude to ‘gawk’ or stare. And be aware, it's illegal to take photos when permission is not sought. You must ask for permission to photograph anyone without their knowledge.
  • Setting up a BBQ in the middle of the beach is awkward and annoying. You are cutting off the scenery and sun for many people and making it ‘hotter than hell’ so to speak. Councils will supply clean and fully gassed BBQs in grassed areas for people to use. If you are bringing your own cooker, set up and cook in those areas.
  • Before bringing your favorite canine, always check if the beach is a zone for dogs, as they are not permitted on certain beaches. Avoid taking a dog off its leash, as there may be beach-goers who fear dogs. Yes, there are dog-friendly beaches where you can allow your dogs to roam about off the leash. Just check to make certain the beach you’re on is one of them.
  • It is a ‘hard no’ to camping on any beach due to health and safety regulations. There are designated beachside campgrounds that are set up behind dunes or on the foreshore. Always check with local council, the national park or state forest for the laws and codes you need to abide by.​

Australia is incredibly unique and beautiful, so travel to the “Land Down Under” and “Come and Say G’day”. We hope that you appreciate what our beautiful land has to offer, and that we see you soon. As Paul Hogan would say, “I’ll make sure to slip an extra shrimp on the barbie for you!”

Pictures from www.nfsa.gov.au - https://www.nfsa.gov.au/collection/item/shrimp-barbie-paul-hogan

Article Published By: Etiquipedia.blogspot.com
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Etiquette and Customs in Tanzania and Zanzibar

29/7/2026

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When I traveled to Tanzania, I was traveling in a group. We had traveled from Kenya, a booming populace with big personalities, to the sparse, quiet and shy people of Tanzania. It was a relief to feel the comfort and ease of the Tanzanian people after so much hustle and bustle. Our journey went very smoothly due to the fact that we followed some important etiquette rules.

Before we get to the protocols of being a traveller in Tanzania, let me explain the history of this little-known country. Tanzania is a country located in East Africa and is best known for its vast and scenic wilderness and friendly, welcoming people. Its great lakes region is home to several national parks. It was previously called “Tanganyika and the Zanzibar Archipelago.” These two areas were governed separately. Today, it is combined as one and officially called the United Republic of Tanzania. It encompasses the Zanzibar, its islands, and is part of the British Commonwealth.

How to Start the Conversation

Tanzania is one of the oldest continuously inhabited areas in Africa, and has had many different rulers, such as those from the Horn of Africa, West Africa, Arab States, Germany and the United Kingdom. All of these had an influence on the Tanzanian language, religion, infrastructure and economy and the way education and the judicial systems have been structured.

Tanzanian introductions and greetings are less pointed than in many other countries. They feel warmer and earnest and should be done in a relaxed way. They could be spoken by the state language, Swahili – be aware that there are approximately 120 languages spoken throughout Tanzania – however, when speaking to the elderly, less direct eye contact may be used and those in authority will want to speak in a polite and formalized language rather than colloquial. 

 The following is some terminology to use when traveling:
  • Hello > ‘Jambo’ – Common with Tourists
  • Hello > ‘Shikamoo’ Reply > ‘Marahaba’
  • How are you? > Habari? Reply > Nazuri
  • Farewell > ‘Kwa Heri Ya Kuonana’
  • Asante > Thank you
  • Local greetings can be a light touch on the shoulder or wrist and then the more “right-hand Western” would be the handshake, which can last longer. 
  • For women, placing your left hand over the right elbow may occur when performing a handshake or bow. 
  • Differences in religious practices may dictate whether you can touch the other person or not. 
  • It is an important part of Tanzanian culture to treat elders and those in authority with great respect. When shaking the hands of elders, use both hands; this shows you have respect for tradition. 
  • After the introduction is dispensed with then inquiries are made about how the family and health, proceed. 
  • It is essential that if an elder is speaking is to be stop and mindfully listen and hear their stories, advice or viewpoints.
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Cultural Expectations of Tanzania
  • Modesty is essential; it shows respect, and it ensures you will be seen and heard more positively. When visiting villages, dress modestly by covering your shoulders and legs. On safari or sea, however, shorts and T-shirts are generally acceptable. 
  • When entering religious sites such as churches or mosques, observe local customs and dress similarly to the locals to avoid offending. 
  •  Tanzanians are welcoming and appreciate visitors, and while tourism supports much of the local economy, the culture remains conservative. 
  • Always ask kindly before taking someone’s photo. 
  •  And when it comes to PDA, public displays of affection, avoid it entirely.

Zanzibar’s Archipelago, the Spice Islands of Africa

Zanzibar is truly beautiful. It is an ancient seaport and trading hub dating back to the 9th century, where Tanzanian merchants exchanged goods with seafaring nations such as India, the Arab world, and Persia. Precious items like ivory, gold, spices, and salt were traded, along with, tragically, enslaved people. The island’s architecture reflects its international traders, including locally designed coral-stone buildings.

Eating the Tanzanian Way

While travelling through Tanzania via Zanzibar, I found that the food was deliciously spicy, fresh and fragrant. Thanks to explorers discovering spices such as cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, cardamom, black pepper, ginger, turmeric, and vanilla and bringing them via the Zanzibarian archipelago, this changed the way locals flavored their meals.


  • If you are invited to a traditional Tanzanian home, you will be invited to sit on a mat, so be ready to wear loose-fitting clothing or food offered to you on a low stool.
  • Food is eaten with fingers or hands, be ready to wash your hands before and after the meal, as I have found throughout Africa, washing hands is customary.
  • When passing food or eating, always use your right hand for most clean functions. Never use the left hand for anything during the dining event.
  • Whilst dining, be very aware that it is essential that the cook, or cooks, are valued and should be shown great respect. One way to do this is by not smelling your food, which may indicate that something ‘smells off’ or rotten.
  • When you are offered food, taste everything and sample food that you may not be keen on. 
  • Always use your own bowl, never eat from the communal dishes that may lie in front of you.
If you can, visit Tanzania and the Zanzibar archipelago. You will be rewarded with pristine beaches, breathtaking safari parks, and thousands of years of history. It's a truly worthwhile experience, especially for the chance to meet the kind people of Tanzania.

Article Published In: Etiquipedia.blogspot.com
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Etiquette and Culture of Myanmar

29/7/2026

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On my initial flight to Myanmar was I was feeling apprehension sink in, due to the stringent government oversight I'd heard about. Despite these concerns, my friends and I decided to explore the city for three days, which was a fascinating experience. What did I discover during my time there?

When Myanmar Gained Independence
Myanmar has many influences and conquerors from areas such as Mongolia, Tibet, and later the British East India Company, and, during World War II, the Japanese. The Bamar people migrated into the famous Irrawaddy valley, bringing the Burmese language, culture and religion- now known as Buddhism, which gradually spread across the region. The country gained independence on 4th January 1948. Then, in 1989, the military government officially changed the colonial period English name of Burma, only to become Myanmar or Republic of the Union of Myanmar. The renaming remains a flashpoint issue. Those who were born in the country associate themselves with the demonym of ‘Burmese’.

Finding
Light Heartedness and Tolerance
Do the people of Myanmar reflect the government's aggressive rule? Conversely, the people are relaxed and calm. H. Fielding Hall author of ‘The Soul of a People’ says ‘of all the lovable qualities of the Burmese – and they are many - there are none greater than these - their light heartedness and their tolerance’.

Etiquette of the Burmese People
They show outward care and kindness and are especially mindful of others and their lives, display modesty, and use the well-known Asiatic communication medium of ‘saving face’ as the Chinese. Another cultural interaction is ‘ahnarde’, which the burmalibrary.org states “conveys the idea of not having the heart or strength to do or say something that might impinge on the feelings of others.” Ahnarde permeates throughout etiquette interactions such as these:
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  • Greetings: Ming-gala-ba is used formally to say hello and is typically accompanied by a slight bow, or more formally, where palms are folded together. The phrase “mingalaba” can mean “may you be blessed.” Informally, you can use nay-kaung-lar.
  • To display ‘greater’ respect, one kneels and touches their palms and forehead to the ground three times, a practice known as ‘kadaw.’ This gesture is often used when showing respect to monks or idols. In a different manner, Indians have this culture of deep respect towards the elderly and religion.
  • Those who are younger will be expected to sit or stand in a lower position than their elders, meaning they will have to use their knees to lower their height position as well as show respectfulness when in the presence of the elderly. When walking, they will walk behind the elder one. When needing to go to the front of an elderly person, an apology is given. If you are walking when an older person is sitting on a chair, it is polite to walk behind that person.
  • The Burmese are well known for cleanliness, and I noticed that when I walked in Yangon’s streets within the city limits. It may be a little primitive compared to Thailand today, but it is a breath of fresh air not to see large-screen TVs and high-rise buildings dotting the skyline. 
  • When it comes to the body, Burmese citizens see the head and body as vessels to keep clean, but they use the feet and left hand for the dirty.
  • Dress: Another interesting point of Burmese culture is the idea of the presentation of modesty and neatness in clothing, which are the cornerstone of first impressions regarding social status. Modern women or men will wear pants, shirts or t-shirts, where the shoulders, chest and upper thighs should remain covered. The more traditional wear such longyi- a long skirt and blouse- eingyi, which may button in the front or side. For men, the traditional cotton or silk hat-gaung baung- distinguishes each ethnic group with a long-sleeved top and a longyi.​

Myanmar’s Ethnic Dimensions
Walking around Yangon I felt that I was surrounded by many ethic cultures and those from different countries. The array of traditional clothing worn by the people reflected the many ethnicities and nationalities present. The country is bordered by India to the west, Bangladesh to the southwest, China to the northeast, Laos and Thailand to the east and southeast. Myanmar is home to government-recognized 135 indigenous ethnic groups. The largest groups are Bamar, followed by Shan, Karen, Rakhine, Mon, Kachin, and Kayah peoples.

One needs to respect individual preferences when referring to people from ethnic minorities. Many may not identify as ‘Burmese,’ preferring to use their specific ethnic identity, such as Karen, Chin, or Rohingya. The Karen people, in particular, may object to being called Burmese. The military-led government's repressive policies and ethnic conflicts have created a climate of self-censorship, particularly regarding sensitive political topics. Citizens often fear reprisals and hesitate to openly discuss controversial issues related to Myanmar due to concerns for their families and friends.

Would I go back to Myanmar? My answer is, “Yes.”  Despite the challenges, Myanmar's allure is undeniable. The untapped potential for exploration, the warmth of the people, the delicious cuisine, and the depth of its history have solidified my desire to make a return visit a must.

Article Published By: Etiquipedia.blogspot.com
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