Csls „no gaffe Series True or False

• 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 …