What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Tervuren?
We asked people in Tervuren if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"In Tervuren, it's important to respect the local customs and traditions. Avoid speaking loudly in public places, as Belgians generally value quiet and discretion. When greeting someone, a handshake is the most common form of greeting. Kissing on the cheek is also common, but usually only among friends or family. Belgians are known for their love of good food and drink, so refusing food or drink offered to you may be seen as impolite. It's also important to remember that Belgium is a multilingual country, with French, Dutch, and German being the official languages. In Tervuren, which is in the Flemish region, Dutch is the most commonly spoken language. It's considered respectful to at least attempt to speak the local language, even if it's just a few basic phrases. Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics, religion, and the linguistic divide between the French and Dutch-speaking regions of Belgium. These topics can be quite divisive and are best avoided in casual conversation. Lastly, punctuality is highly valued in Belgium. Being late for an appointment or meeting is considered rude and disrespectful," remarked another expat who made the move to Tervuren, Belgium.
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Tervuren?
If you live in Tervuren, newcomers to Tervuren would love to hear your answer to this question.