I’ve made every mistake possible, bowed when I should’ve kissed, kissed when I should’ve shaken, worn shoes where I should’ve gone barefoot, and once accidentally insulted a whole family in Georgia because I refused more wine (never again). Here’s the short list of tiny things I actually remember to do now so strangers smile instead of side-eye me.

Japan – shoes off, always. Every house, most ryokans, some restaurants, even the fitting rooms in big stores. I carry a tiny plastic bag for wet shoes so I’m not that guy with soggy socks. Bowing depth depends on how much respect you wanna show, deeper for old people, quick head-nod for friends. And never ever stick chopsticks upright in rice, looks like incense at a funeral, people freeze.

Thailand – head high, feet low. Head is sacred, feet are dirty. No touching heads (even kids), no pointing feet at people or Buddha statues. I sit cross-legged or knees to the side on the floor. Wai greeting (palms together, slight bow) is polite, but I only start it with older people, they usually wai first if they want it.

Brazil – kisses everywhere. One cheek in São Paulo, two in Rio, three if you’re in Minas and feeling extra friendly. I just lean in and let them lead. Hugs are basically mandatory after ten minutes of talking. And loud is normal, quiet is weird.

Arab countries – left hand is the toilet hand. Eat, shake, point, pass things with right hand only. I still mess this up sometimes and the look I get could freeze coffee. Men holding hands = normal friendship, don’t be the awkward one pulling away.

Turkey – when someone offers you tea, take it. Refusing is like slapping their grandma. Same in Georgia with wine, just sip slow if you’re driving later. And remove shoes in houses, easy.

India – head wobble means yes, maybe, okay, thank you, I heard you, all at once. Took me three trips to stop being confused. Also eating with hands is normal, but only right hand, obviously.

Russia & Eastern Europe – bring a small gift if invited to someone’s house. Flowers (odd number, even is for funerals), chocolate, bottle of something. And toast properly, look people in the eye when you clink, otherwise seven years bad luck or whatever they say.

France – say bonjour every single time you walk into a shop or elevator. Not doing it is basically telling them to have a bad day. Same with au revoir when you leave.

Indonesia (Bali especially) – don’t touch anyone’s head, don’t point with your finger (use thumb), and if you step over someone’s legs apologize fast.

General rule that saved me everywhere: smile first, copy what locals do, and when in doubt ask “is this okay?” while doing the gesture. Worst case they laugh, best case they adopt you.

Do these little things and suddenly doors open, free tea appears, and grandmas pinch your cheek instead of cursing you in languages you don’t understand.

Travel safe and polite,
Kohl