Cultural Differences: Behavior in Spain, Australia, Italy
Cultural Differences in Public Spaces: Spain vs. Australia
There are some differences in the way people move in public places in Spain and in Australia. For example, on busy escalators, particularly those in major train stations, it is expected that Spanish people stand on the right, whereas Australians stand on the left.
Love: East vs. West
Concerning love, in the East, love is lived in silence. However, in the West, people express their love with words. Therefore, it is not strange to wonder how intercultural couples behave.
Germans and Planning
As regards Germans, they can be considered the masters of planning. In their opinion, there is a proper time for every activity. When the business day ends, you are expected to leave the office. Therefore, if you must remain after normal closing, it indicates that you did not plan your day properly.
Marriage: East vs. West
Although there are similarities in the way people in the East and people in the West behave, there are also important differences. For instance, Westerners usually fall in love before they marry, whereas for Easterners, it is not uncommon to get to love their partner after they have got married.
Greetings: Portugal vs. Spain
Regarding greetings, Portuguese and Spanish people behave very similarly. In both countries, formal meetings will imply handshaking, whereas more intimate meetings will include embraces and kisses. However, Portuguese women will kiss on the cheek starting with the right, whereas Spanish women will start with the left cheek.
Humor in Ireland
The Irish have a reputation for their wit and humor, which they call “having a crack.” As well as being quick-tongued with jokes, they also make eloquent and witty speakers. They pride themselves on being able to find humor, and it is often self-deprecating or ironic. Therefore, if you are teased, it is important to take it well and not see it as personal.
Punctuality and Celebrations in Greece
The Greeks are very different from the Germans or the Danes as regards punctuality, since in Greece, arriving thirty minutes late for dinner is being punctual. Besides, it is also different from other Mediterranean cultures in some aspects, such as celebrations. For example, Spanish people celebrate birthdays, whereas Greeks celebrate name days, that is, the birth date of the saint after whom they are named.
Dining Etiquette in Sweden
In Sweden, eating arrangements are often a formal affair. Concerning punctuality, you should never arrive late to a dinner. However, it would also be rude to arrive too early. Secondly, dress smartly. Otherwise, it would be considered disrespectful to the host. Finally, always write or call a few days after the dinner to thank the hosts.
Religion: Turkey vs. Italy
Whereas Turkey has a Muslim majority, the primary religion in Italy is Roman Catholic. Although church attendance in Italy is relatively low, the influence of the Church is still high. For instance, many buildings have a cross in their lobbies. In addition, children are named after saints. Moreover, each trade has a patron saint. In short, religion is a key element in Italy.
Homes: Denmark vs. Sweden
Although Denmark and Sweden share quite a lot of cultural aspects, there are also some differences between both cultures. For example, if you are invited to a Swedish house for dinner, do not ask to see the rest of the house as they are usually quite private. However, Danes enjoy showing off their homes since they have often done the decorating themselves.