Choosing the Perfect Gift for International Friends

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Selecting a meaningful gift for friends is always important. When considering a gift for an international friend, it's crucial to be mindful of their customs and traditions. Here are some tips from Mytour to help you navigate this process:

Giving gifts to friends from different countries while traveling or on business can be challenging if you're not familiar with their culture. Sometimes, your gift can unintentionally cause offense. Therefore, it's essential to research the customs, traditions, and culture of the country you're visiting for the first time.

For example, in Japan and China, avoid using white wrapping paper as it symbolizes death. In China, gifts should not be wrapped in black or blue paper, as these colors are associated with funerals. Avoid choosing sharp or pointed objects as gifts, as well as items with thorns. In these Asian countries, gifts should be presented with both hands and at the end of the meeting.

When visiting European countries, be cautious when selecting potted plants and flowers as gifts, as many countries associate certain types of flowers with mourning or graves. Germans never give each other carnations because these flowers are often placed on graves, bringing bad luck if brought into the home. French and Spanish people use white chrysanthemums at funerals. Yellow flowers are seen as a symbol of infidelity in France. However, in Mexico, yellow symbolizes death.

Mytour offers these suggestions hoping to assist you in choosing appropriate and meaningful gifts for your international friends.

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Source: Travel Guide by Mytour

Published by MytourApril 24, 2014

The content is developed by the Mytour team with the aim of customer care and solely to inspire travel experiences. We do not take responsibility for or provide advice for other purposes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What cultural considerations should I keep in mind when choosing a gift for an international friend?

When selecting a gift for an international friend, it's crucial to research their customs and traditions. Different cultures have unique meanings associated with colors and items, which can influence the appropriateness of your gift.

Are there specific colors to avoid when wrapping gifts for friends from Asia?

Yes, in many Asian cultures, it's important to avoid using white, black, or blue wrapping paper. These colors can symbolize death and are considered inappropriate for gift-giving.

How should gifts be presented to friends in Asian countries?

In Asian countries, gifts should be presented with both hands, ideally at the end of a meeting. This gesture shows respect and appreciation for the recipient.

Can certain flowers be problematic as gifts in European cultures?

Yes, many European countries associate specific flowers with mourning. For instance, Germans avoid giving carnations, while white chrysanthemums are linked to funerals in France and Spain.