Bon Appetiti! Itadakumasu! Buen provecho!

One of the most exciting and rewarding (but often dubious…) parts of travelling abroad is trying new foods and local delicacies. However, with new cultures come new dining etiquette and the potential to create an embarrassing situation for even the most well-seasoned of diners.

From malfunctioning chopsticks in China to using the wrong hand to eat with in India, it’s important that you do your research before you travel to avoid offending your dinner companions. Here we have compiled a few do’s and don’ts of dining etiquette from around the globe so that you can get the most out of your next overseas dining experience.

• Portugal: do leave a tip, but don’t ask for salt and pepper if it’s not already provided – it’s considered an offence to the chef.

• Thailand: do be ready to share your food. Sharing is very common and dishes will often be served to be spilt among the table, but don’t take the last bite from the sharing bowl as it’s considered bad manners.

• Italy: do add a 5 – 10% tip for exceptional service, the rest of the service charge will already be included in your bill. Don’t ask for cheese if it’s not offered – it’s a huge food faux pas.

• Japan: do drink directly from your soup bowl as spoons are uncommon, but don’t tip as it can be seen as rude.

• India: do be sure to finish your meal as it’s disrespectful to leave food on your plate. Don’t eat with your left hand as it’s considered unclean.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By : visual.ly

 

 

 

 

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