How to behave: table etiquette in different countries

The concept of "etiquette" did not arise yesterday, and it is known in any country. However, everywhere there are peculiarities, certain traditions that have evolved over decades. And in each state, these customs, foundations have acquired nuances characteristic of culture, manners of communication and other aspects of the life of the people inhabiting it. If you like traveling and at the same time like meeting new people, it is possible that you can be invited to lunch or dinner with foreign acquaintances. Therefore, it never hurts to know how one should behave at the table in a particular country, so as not to lose face, as they say.

Table etiquette in different countries

Learning what is accepted in other countries is always interesting, informative and, moreover, useful – for a productive (in every sense) stay there.

You can consider yourself to a large extent "savvy" knowledge about the country, including knowing the local rules during the meal.

England

It is not customary in this country to address tablemates until you have been introduced to each other. You will not be understood if you whisper with any of the companions: general involvement in the conversation is welcome here. It is unacceptable to put your hands on the table: in the opinion of the British, it is most correct to keep them on your knees, sit upright, keeping your posture.And one more thing: do not "juggle" spoons and forks, shifting them from hand to hand is considered bad manners by the British. Under no circumstances do not smoke at the table: only after eating can you afford a cigarette. And keep in mind that by declining the invitation of British acquaintances for tea, you will offend them: do not do this, this is nonsense here.

France

As you know, the inhabitants of France are famous for their sophistication, refined manners, elegance. All this is inherent in the

rules of etiquette. To be invited to visit the French – showing great respect and respect on their part. This honor is awarded to people close in spirit. At the French table, one of the most important prohibitions is the discussion of financial issues. Moreover, it is regarded as rudeness. Here it is customary to talk about abstract topics. You will not be understood if you are late for lunch, it is permissible to linger for a maximum of a quarter of an hour. During the meal, it is customary to keep your hands above the table, otherwise you will be perceived as a person who is hiding something. It is customary for the French to finish the dish completely. And by the way, if you want to pepper or salt your food, you can offend the hostess with this. It is also interesting that local people eat bread by breaking off small pieces, and not by biting off a cut slice. When dessert is served, you can expect neither coffee, or tea – such is the tradition.

Germany

Residents of this country clearly separate personal and business life, so if you were invited to visit, then you – in the circle of trust of the owners. Late for the table here is considered the height of indecency: do not forget about the pedantry and punctuality of the local population – they expect the same from others. It is not customary for Germans to start a meal until the dishes are in front of all the participants in the feast.

Japan

To allow yourself to be a little late for lunch or dinner with the Japanese is unacceptable – this will be regarded as the utmost disrespect. Sitting cross-legged at the table is unforgivable, in Japan it means to show indifference to the thoughts of the interlocutor and

conversation with him. It is not customary for the Japanese to pass food with chopsticks, taboo and vertical sticking of a traditional cutlery into food – in the Land of the Rising Sun, this is associated with the funeral ceremony. In the process of eating, chopsticks should be handled carefully: do not wave them, do not poke them in the direction of people. In general, for a Japanese, how a person handles chopsticks – culture indicator. And oddly enough, champing at the table is very welcome in Japan (and the louder, the better the effect): in a similar way, admiration for the skill of the cook, gratitude to him is expressed here. The first dish here is drunk from a plate, without using a tablespoon. And here's what else is important: absolute mauvais ton – leave the table silently, be sure to thank the host or the chef for the meal.

When going to another country, it is always better to familiarize yourself with its main customs in advance, so as not to get into trouble every now and then. 

Don't forget! In a foreign country, it is important to behave like a guest, with respect for the hosts, to be delicate and polite so as not to disgrace your homeland, but to present it with dignity.