Buzz
In Thailand, using a fork for rice is frowned upon, while in India, eating with the left hand is taboo. Interestingly, the French often indulge in bread towards the end of their meals.
Thailand
In Thailand, it's acceptable to use a fork to serve food, but using it to convey rice to your mouth is a big no-no. The exception is certain sticky rice dishes in Northern and Northeastern Thailand where forks are allowed.
Japan
Sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice is considered extremely unlucky in Japan, resembling the incense sticks placed before a coffin at a funeral. It's believed to bring misfortune and death to the diner.
Middle East, India, and Some African Countries
In these countries, using the left hand for eating is strictly forbidden, even touching the table with the left hand is frowned upon due to the belief that the left hand is reserved for unclean tasks related to hygiene.
South Korea
In South Korea, if an elder offers you a glass of alcohol, you must accept it with both hands as a sign of respect for the elderly - a distinctive cultural trait of the Korean people. After receiving the glass, it's customary to turn away and take a discreet sip.
Georgia, USA
At a traditional gathering in Georgia, anyone who sips wine is considered uncouth. People usually raise their glasses and drink it all in one go as a gesture of respect to the host during the celebration.
Mexico
In Mexico, locals never eat tacos with a knife and fork as it's deemed absurd and unsightly. So, showcase your etiquette by eating with your hands.
Italy
Some Italians believe that drinking cappuccino in the evening causes digestive issues. Therefore, you won't find any Italians sipping a cup of cappuccino after 3 p.m.
Moreover, you mustn't ask for extra parmesan cheese on your pizza. It's an unwritten rule in Italian eateries.
China
In particular, in mainland Southern China and Hong Kong, diners are forbidden to flip fish as it signifies 'unluckiness.' Superstitious individuals believe that flipping fish will overturn fishing boats at sea or lead to business failures.
United Kingdom
In the UK, it's customary to always choose items with your left hand first as part of their tradition.
France
In France, you won't use bread as an appetizer before the meal; instead, it's consumed during or at the end of the meal, typically accompanied by cheese.
Chile
Due to the influence of Western European culture, in Chile, it's considered improper to eat anything with hands; you must use a knife and fork, even for french fries.
Russia
Sharing drinks from the same glass is strictly avoided for hygiene reasons. However, if someone offers you their drink, it's a sign of trust and friendship.
According to Ngoisao.net
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Reference: Mytour Travel Handbook
TravelExperts.comJune 12, 2015
