16 Taboos in Various Countries

Syria prohibits Yo-yo games to address drought, while the Dutch avoid singing during meals to ward off demons.

16 Taboos You Should Know When Traveling Abroad

Each country has its own taboos. So, you can refer to the information below to avoid complications when traveling.

Japan: Sticking chopsticks into food is something you should avoid when traveling to Japan. Also, refrain from using chopsticks to point at someone, as it is considered rude and disrespectful to the Japanese.

South Korea: Residents believe that leaving a fan on while sleeping in a closed room or one without windows can lead to death. This is particularly noted for infants and the elderly.

Philippines: Upon returning from a funeral, locals must not head straight home but instead pass through a shopping center, store, or any establishment. This is believed to confuse malevolent spirits and prevent them from following them home. Locals refer to this tradition as pagpag.

India: Cutting hair, trimming nails, and shaving on Tuesdays is believed to bring about misfortune. Therefore, barber shops in this country often remain closed on Tuesdays.

Egypt: Seeing a bat or hearing its cry is an omen of impending dreadful calamity. This is also why they avoid entering the woods at midnight.

Syria: In 1933, the game of Yo-yo on string was banned. It was believed that the unbroken loop of the Yo-yo caused droughts.

Afghanistan: It is taboo for a broom to touch someone's feet. If you do so, one of your close ones will pass away.

Russia: Russians believe that sending birthday wishes too early to someone will bring about misfortune. If they wish to organize a birthday party for a loved one, friends will always choose the exact date or postpone it after the birthday. Furthermore, Russians also believe that shaking hands, hugging, and kissing someone goodbye at the doorstep will turn them into enemies. Therefore, this sweet gesture should be done indoors or outside.

Mexico: Placing two mirrors facing each other can open a gateway to evil spirits.

Lithuania: Whistling may be normal in many countries. However, for Lithuanians, whistling indoors is considered a way to summon demons.

England: Putting shoes on a table signifies bad luck, as it symbolizes the death of a loved one. In the past, placing someone's shoes on the table was a way for others to inform the family that they had passed away.

Turkey: Itchy right hand is believed to mean you will come into money, while itchy left hand signifies impending loss of money. Turks also avoid jumping over a child. This action is considered to curse them with short stature.

Iceland: In winter, if you want to knit, do it indoors. Knitting outside the doorstep here can make the cold season harsher and last longer.

Netherlands: Don't sing during meals, as this act is akin to inviting demons to dine.

Hungary: Sitting at the corner of a table may bring you troubles in love, marriage, and perpetually solitude. This belief also exists in Russia.

Spain: Entering a house or a room with the left foot is considered unlucky. Conversely, stepping in or out with the right foot brings luck.

According to Lan Huong/ Vnexpress

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Reference: Travel handbook Mytour