Kazakhstan
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Kazakhstan?
We asked people in Kazakhstan 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 aware of cultural differences when visiting Kazakhstan. It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions, and to dress modestly. Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics, religion, and the Soviet Union. It is also important to avoid making negative comments about Kazakhstan or its people. Additionally, it is important to avoid touching someone without their permission, and to avoid public displays of affection. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local etiquette when it comes to dining, such as waiting to be invited to eat before starting, and not leaving food on your plate," remarked another expat who made the move to Kazakhstan.
"I think my humorous blunders are usually related to me using charades in my endevours to communicate. For instance, asking for chicken breast fillets and leather bags can be embarrassing to say the least," explained one expat living in Semey, Kazakhstan.
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Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Kazakhstan?
- How do I meet people in Kazakhstan?
- What is life like in Kazakhstan?
- Is there a lot of crime in Kazakhstan?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Kazakhstan accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Kazakhstan like?
- Is the cost of living in Kazakhstan high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Kazakhstan?
- What are healthcare services like in Kazakhstan?
- Is the cost of living in Kazakhstan high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Kazakhstan?
- What is the weather like in Kazakhstan?
- Are there good restaurants in Kazakhstan?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Kazakhstan?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Kazakhstan?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Kazakhstan?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Kazakhstan?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Kazakhstan?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Kazakhstan?
If you live in Kazakhstan, newcomers to Kazakhstan would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
