Taiwan
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Taiwan?
We asked people in Taiwan 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!...
"It is important to be mindful of cultural differences when visiting Taiwan. It is considered rude to point with your index finger, so it is best to use an open hand when gesturing. It is also important to be respectful of religious sites and to dress modestly when visiting temples. It is also important to take off your shoes when entering someone's home. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local customs when it comes to dining etiquette, such as waiting to be invited to eat and not starting to eat until the host has begun. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local customs when it comes to gift-giving, such as not giving sharp objects or white flowers as gifts," said another expat in Taiwan.
"My first Chinese New Year I was invited to dinner at my local friend's house. I had been eating and drinking at a large table with the host's family and friends, when my friend suggested I go to a smaller, vegetarian table to meet one of his cousins who had been living in Australia. At that table the guests invited me to share in their vegetarian dishes. I took food from the communal bowls as is the custom in Chinese society. However, it wasn't until the next day that my friend informed me that I had used the same chopsticks as I had used at the non-vegetarian table, which I hadn't even considered. Although the guests were concerned enough to tell my friend about it, they didn't want me to lose face. I was pretty embarrassed nonetheless," wrote a member who made the move to Taoyuan, Taiwan.
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Taiwan?
If you live in Taiwan, newcomers to Taiwan would love to hear your answer to this question.
