Avoid These 10 Hand Gestures While Traveling Abroad

Sign of 'coming closer'

Avoid using this signal in the Philippines. Locals believe it is used to summon dogs, carrying a rather vulgar meaning. In Japan and Singapore, this gesture is synonymous with death. Unintentionally, you may become a bearer of misfortune to them.

Left hand

In the Middle East, India, Sri Lanka, and Africa, you need to learn how to eat with your right hand. Traditionally, in these countries, the left hand is considered impure as it is used for hygiene purposes.

If you are left-handed, you must be aware of this if you do not want to offend the locals.

The 'V' sign

In countries under the British Commonwealth, Ireland, Australia, or New Zealand, when signaling with a V-shaped hand, remember to present the palm facing forward. In these nations, making the V sign with the palm facing backward is considered offensive.

Rude gesture

Vietnamese people associate this gesture with a sensitive part of the female body, considering it highly inappropriate if you make this gesture in front of them.

Sign for 'calling a cab'

In South Korea, make sure not to use an outward-facing palm to hail a taxi. Koreans believe this gesture is used to call their dogs. Instead of facing the palm forward, you should cup your hands down and move them up and down vertically.

Gesture with the thumb pointing upwards

In most countries, this gesture signifies agreement or approval of an opinion. However, in countries like Afghanistan, Iran, a small part of Italy, and Greece, this gesture is equivalent to the 'obscene gesture.'

Sign for 'halt'

Absolutely avoid using this gesture in Greece. It is an insult to the people here. This belief stems from the practice during the Byzantine Empire, where criminals paraded on the streets had ashes or dung smeared on their faces by the locals.

Head stroking gesture

In Thailand, the head is the most sacred part of the body. In Buddhism, it is where the soul resides. Even stroking the head of a child in Thailand is something to be avoided, as they believe you have violated their most sacred part.

According to VnExpress.net

Mysterious Sign

Reference: Travel Guide from Mytour