CSLS „NO Gaffe“ Series

True or False 1. In Germany, it is common to kiss on the cheek rather than to shake hands. 2. In Austria, it is considered rude to speak loudly in the subway. 3. In Germany and Austria, nudity is considered taboo. 4. Being on time is not so important in these countries. 5. German speakers very much appreciate it if you speak their language (at least a few words).

“Americans are my favorite tourists since they are kind and they don‘t try to draw attention to themselves like the Spanish, Brits or Italians.”

“I find Americans (‘Amis’) to be very kind; as a matter of fact, I like them so much that I fell in love with an American and am now considering to move to the States”

“Generous tippers but no table manners”

“Annoying [about Americans]: Superficial small talk with people they don’t know”

“Very opinionated”

“Generally speaking, the „Ami“ is very relaxed as a tourist and also very kind …”

“… and yet you should not have to listen to his/her whole life story!“

“It is annoying when Americans (in groups) are noisy (screaming). For dinner they show up in T-Shirts and tennis shoes”

Noise level in public DO only share your stories with those who really want to hear them. DO be aware that it is considered rude to be noisy in public

Language and Understanding DO Learn some basic German (politeness) DO know some general geography DON’T think people can’t understand you if you speak English. DON’T expect to make friends immediately: takes longer, so people won’t be as personal as first

Common Street Behavior DON’T get offended when people run into you and forget to apologize. DO shake hands DON’T hug or kiss until you know each other a lot better DO have your passport with you DON’T litter

Traffic DON’T step on the bike lane DON‘T jaywalk DON‘T block the doors when using public transportation DON’T block the escalator

Cultural sights Do pay respect to cultural heritage

Shopping and Buying things DON’T plan on shopping on Sundays DO bring your own bag DON’T expect somebody else to bag your groceries DON’T calculate taxes in your head DON’T leave your cash at home

Conversation DO limit your small talk DON’T necessarily avoid politics at all costs DO stay away from stereotypical conversation topics such as Hitler

Social Events I Restaurant: DON’T tip like you are still in America DON’T wait for the bill DON’T expect to pay with plastic DON’T expect your drinks to come with ice/free refill Table manners: DO look people in the eyes (“Cheers) DON’T start before everyone has their food DON’T leave the table when people are still eating DON’T eat by only using the folk DON’T cross your knife and fork DON’T talk with full mouth DON’T chew with your mouth open DON’T put your elbows on the table

SOCIAL EVENTS II Parties/Coming together DON’T forget to bring something for the host DON’T make plans you won’t keep DON’T be late Birthdays: DON’T wish anybody Happy Birthday before their actual birthday DON‘T expect your friends to pay for your birthday dinner BUT …