Body language abroad

Body language means different things in different countries. Here are our top tips on using body language abroad:

• Different gestures mean different things in different countries. Some gestures that are OK in the Western world are rude or even offensive in other countries.

• Be careful especially with hand gestures and pointing. It’s often rude to point at people. People in India point with their chins.

• If you give someone the thumbs up in the US or UK, it means OK or great. In Iran and Bangladesh, it’s an offensive gesture. In Japan, it means the number five. And in Germany, it means the number one.

• Shaking your head means no in the Western world but means yes in some countries, including Saudi Arabia and Lebanon.

• It’s polite to make eye contact with people in Korea but rude in Japan.

• In the US, the UK and Canada, people greet each other with a handshake. In France and Italy, they kiss each other on the cheeks. In Japan, they bow to each other. And in China, they nod, bow or clap their hands.

• In Egypt, it’s rude to show the soles of your shoes or feet so don’t put your feet up or cross your legs while there.

• Learn as much as you can about body language in any country you plan to visit. While there, watch how people behave and don’t be afraid to ask questions about what is and isn't polite.