List of faux pas

Common or notable faux pas in various cultures include:

Arab countries

Displaying the soles of your feet or touching somebody with your shoes.
Using left hand. Eating with your left hand. Throughout most of the Middle East the left hand is reserved for bodily hygiene and considered unclean. Thus, the right hand should be used for eating. Shaking hands with left hand is considered an insult.
Public displays of affection to women.

Australia, New Zealand

Confusing Australians with New Zealanders. The mistake will generally be taken in good humour, providing an apology is given; it would, however, be considered ignorant and boorish to dismiss the difference.
Many of the faux pas of the United States and the United Kingdom are also considered faux pas in Australasian countries, particularly Australia and New Zealand.
In the Maori community of New Zealand, it is a faux pas not to remove one's shoes when entering a Maori sacred building, such as a marae. In the dominant European community not removing shoes when entering a building is not a faux pas, therefore Europeans can sometimes forget to observe this tradition. This can offend Maori and sometimes cause tension.
Sitting on or resting one's backside against a table or desk can also offend Maori. The desk-top is where one focuses one's mind, so should not be touched by the 'dirty' nether regions.
Foreigners imitating the Australian accent à la Steve Irwin greatly annoys Australians. (There aren't many Australians with this accent.)
Asking about predictable or obvious Australian icons, like koalas and kangaroos. "Is it true all Australians keep kangaroos as pets?" "Can you eat Koala?"
Referring to Australia as an isolated, deserted place.
Saying phrases such as "Throw a shrimp on the barbie".

Canada

Not taking your shoes off when you enter somebody's home.
Being late; public events and meetings always start on time. It is acceptable to be 15 minutes late for a social event, but 30 minutes late or more is rude.
Not looking someone directly in the eye when speaking can be seen as evasive. However, sustained eye contact with strangers seen as rude or an act of overt aggression.
Sitting or standing too close to a stranger or acquaintance. A distance of 60 cm (closer in Quebec) is preferable.
Standing too close behind someone at a bank machine. At least 2 metres is acceptable.
Same-sex platonic friends holding hands in public.
Kissing on the cheeks as a greeting in a business setting is not considered rude but may be considered inappropriate.
Addressing people immediately using their first name (especially from a younger to an older person). Take your cue from the other person. In Quebec first names may be used over the telephone but surnames in person.
Not leaving a 10-15% tip or gratuity for a waiter at a restaurant.
Do not assume that stores accept American currency.
Jokes making light of particular ethnicities, religions, or other groups, that might be accepted lightly in other countries, may cause offence or discomfort even when no members of that group are present.
It is not considered common to sample a food before deciding whether to buy it, either at a grocery store, restaurant or other eatery.
One should not refer to Canadians as "Americans". (Referring to them as North Americans is acceptable.) "America Junior" is right out insulting.
At dinner parties (private dinners where the host invites you to his/her home):
- Showing up empty-handed. Unless specified beforehand, it's considered proper etiquette for the guests to bring wine, flowers, or chocolates. Conversely, bringing another item, such as hard liquor or a food dish, will almost always be viewed as strange or rude by the host and/or other guests (unless it is a potluck dinner).
- Commentings negatively on the quality of the food, even if it is prepared poorly or is substandard.
- Bringing uninvited guests.
- Beginning to eat without waiting for everyone to be served.
- Smoking without asking permission. It is usual to go outdoors to smoke.

China, Taiwan

Faux pas derived from Mandarin pronunciation

The following faux pas are derived from Mandarin pronunciations (with Hanyu Pinyin noted), so they may also apply in other Chinese-speaking areas:

Giving someone a timepiece, such as a clock or a watch, as a gift is a very unlucky faux pas. Traditional superstitions regard this as counting the seconds to the recipient's death. Another common interpretation of this is that the phrase "to gift a clock" (Chinese: 送鐘, Chinese: 送钟) in Chinese is pronounced "sòng zhōng" in Mandarin, which is a homophone of a phrase for "terminating" or "attending a funeral" (both can be written as 送終 (traditional) or 送终 (simplified)). Cantonese people consider such gift as a curse.
Giving someone a fan or an umbrella as a gift is frequently unfriendly. The words fan "shàn" (扇) and umbrella "sǎn" (Chinese: 傘, Chinese: 伞) sounds like the word "sàn" (散), meaning scatter or to loose. "sàn kāi" (Chinese: 散開, Chinese: 散开) means to split up. **Traditionally, the bride gives her parents a fan, symbolizing that she is leaving them for her husband. (Chinese society is traditionally paternal.)
Sharing a pear with your loved ones is unlucky. "Sharing a pear" (分梨) is a homophone of "separate" (Chinese: 分離, Chinese: 分离), both pronounced "fēnlí" in Mandarin. Sharing with distant friends is okay.
As a book (simplified Chinese: 书; traditional Chinese: 書; pinyin: shū) is a Mandarin homophone of a loss (simplified Chinese: 输; traditional Chinese: 輸; pinyin: shū), carrying or reading (looking at) a book (simplified Chinese: 带书, 看书; traditional Chinese: 帶書, 看書; pinyin: dài shū, kàn shū) when betting, such as gambling or investing in stocks, may be considered an unlucky faux pas while being homophones of carrying or looking at a loss (simplified Chinese: 带输, 看输; traditional Chinese: 帶輸, 看輸; pinyin: dài shū, kàn shū). This unlucky faux pas does not apply to carrying or reading newspapers (simplified Chinese: 带报, 看报; traditional Chinese: 帶報, 看報; pinyin: dàibào, kànbào) as newspapers (simplified Chinese: 报纸; traditional Chinese: 報紙; pinyin: bàozhǐ) are not books.
When eating at a reunion dinner on the eve of the Chinese New Year, eating up fish completely is widely considered an unlucky faux pas. See Chinese New Year#Reunion dinner for the reason why partially eaten fish is customarily to be stored overnight.
Breaking something into broken pieces (Chinese: 碎片; pinyin: suìpiàn) is unlucky. However, should this happen around the Chinese New Year, it is common to say "may every year be peaceful" (simplified Chinese: 岁岁平安; traditional Chinese: 歲歲平安; pinyin: suì suì píng'ān) as an excuse while 碎 (suì, breakage) and 歲/岁 (suì, year) are Mandarin homophones.

Other faux pas

Giving a married man a green colored head wear as a gift is unfriendly. The Chinese saying "wearing a green hat" (Chinese: 戴綠帽, Chinese: 戴绿帽, Pinyin: dài lǜmào) means that someone's wife is unfaithful. The gift would be an insult to the couple.
At a dinner table, always serve the oldest person at the table first. If you do not know their age, serve the guest first. It is very important to show respect to the elders.
Sticking your chopsticks into your rice and leave them standing there is a very unlucky faux pas. This looks like sticks of incense in a bowl used to honor dead ancestors, and such a symbol of death is extremely offensive at the dinner table. In Cantonese funeral tradition, a pair of chopsticks is used to stick a salt-preserved duck egg into a bowl of rice on the altar as an offering to the deceased.
Attending a Cantonese wedding while you are still in mourning for a death in the family is unlucky. It is believed to bring bad luck to the marrying couple.
As the naming taboo, it was a serious crime to say or write an emperor's given name in ancient imperial China.
- This has customarily made calling elderly relatives, including uncles and aunts, whether by blood or by marriage, by their given names an impolite faux pas. While in English it is okay to call someone like "uncle John" or "aunt Jane", in Chinese language you have to determine which type of uncle or aunt you are meeting and leave their given names out when calling them.
- By extension, it is also an impolite faux pas in China and Taiwan for school students to call their teachers by their given names directly.

Central Europe

For men shaking hands while wearing gloves is considered impolite. This does not apply to women.
For men to sit while women are standing.

Finland

Not taking your shoes off when you enter someone's home.
Being late. The Nordic countries are unusually punctual, with meetings, events, and public transport usually happening on time.
Placing a phone call to somebody after 10 p.m. (22:00).
Talking too much. Finns are not uncomfortable with silent pauses in conversations; thus, cultural misunderstandings may happen when, for example, an American is trying to be friendly by constantly making small talk and a Finn is trying to be friendly by being silent and listening to what he is saying. They both may make an unfriendly impression on each other.
Calling Finland a Scandinavian country as some people consider it a Nordic country. However, some Finns are quite happy being thought of being part of Scandinavia.
Refusing to have a sauna while being a guest.
Stating that you thought Finland was not part of European Union or that Finland does not use the Euro as a currency.
Calling Finns Eastern Europeans (or suggesting that during the cold war, Finland was under Soviet control).
Not offering a cup of coffee to a guest.
Refusing a cup of coffee while being a guest (it´s acceptable if you state that you don´t drink coffee at all).

France

Language and communication
- Like in many languages featuring a T-V distinction, addressing people with the familiar "tu" (like in Middle English thou) when they should be addressed with "vous" (you) is seen as derogatory, insulting, or even aggressive. Conversely, addressing familiars with "vous" is considered snobbish and introduces distance.
- Assuming that people speak English without inquiry may be found unpleasant; being able to greet in French and ask whether the interlocutor speaks English is highly appreciated. (Most young people have at least a rudimentary English, but few of the elder people will be able to communicate in English for the most basic needs).
- Talking about money, earning, social position, religion, politics, or war. These are topics that are to be avoided during the beginning of a conversation.
Gifts
- Offering chrysanthemums is in bad taste, since they are traditionally reserved for mourners.
- Offering red roses to a hostess or for professional reasons is inappropriate, as they express love.
- Giving a knife as a gift is of ominous meaning; between friends, a symbolic payment for the knife is asked.
- Giving a household device as a gift to a woman is a reminder of her alleged social position.
In private dinner (these rules are routinely broken in casual dinners, especially with friends).
- Starting to eat before everybody is ready to begin.
- Not finishing one's meal. It implies that the food is so poor one cannot finish it, or the host does not balance correctly the quantity of food one need.
- Serving yourself of wine. One must ask other people if they want some more wine, serving them, and serving himself afterward.
- Putting a piece of bread on one's plate. Leave it on the table beside the plate. (Bread is not considered a part of the meal, but rather more like salt and pepper. This is why they do not charge for bread at the restaurant.)
- Biting into the piece of bread directly (unless you have something on it -butter, pâté,...). One should break a small piece off, and put it into one's mouth. (Same reason as above).
- Not finishing one's bread at the end of the lunch. Bread is a basic food and should not be wasted.
- Resting one's hands under the table or the elbows onto the table.
- Crossing the fork and knife on the plate when the dish is finished; they should be more or less parallel, as it may distress the superstitious.
- Bringing a bottle of wine to a formal dinner in somebody's home suggests that the hosts are unable to provide their own wine. One may do so if you explain your hosts that you want them to discover a good wine that one like and that they do not know . (One should not bring a "good" bottle if one is not sure if it is good - it is not a question of price of the wine, it is a question of taste.)
- Having thirteen persons at a table reminds of the Last Supper and may distress superstitious people (not as valid today, it is now a kind of joke to bring more people at a friendly table).
- Putting a loaf of bread upside down. It is a bad omen because it is said that the loaf that was put upside down by the baker was reserved for the executioner.
Entering someone's home
- After entering, leaving one's coat without being invited to do so. One must ask first.
- Holding one's umbrella open indoors may be seen as an omen of bad luck.
- Putting one's hat on a bed is considered ominous by some.
Saluting
- For a man, not taking off one's hat (or cap) when saluting. This is coming out of use.
- For a man, giving a handshake while wearing a glove.
- For both sexes, shaking hands with a woman in a casual context introduces distance. Embracing (holding each other loosely in the arms while lightly kissing each other's cheek) is usually expected. The number of cheek-kisses varies from region to region between 2, 3 or 4.
Clothing
- Wearing light clothes (shorts, mini-skirts, tank-top, etc.) in some contexts, e.g. in a church or at a formal appointment.
- Though not strictly inappropriate, wearing sandals or flip-flops with socks and, for men, wearing a tank top ("petit Marcel") as casual dress are in particularly bad taste.
Galanterie-related faux-pas (most of them are old-fashioned, or are becoming so).
- For a man, pass through a door before a woman and/or not holding her the door.
- For a man accompanied by a woman, going upstairs first or downstairs behind (old-fashioned rule, it is supposed to protect the woman from falling).
- Offering a small even number of flowers (old-fashioned rule).
Specific inappropriate gestures
- Tapping the top of the fist with the palm of the other hand (meaning: to have sex, to be done in).
- Tapping the inner part of the wrist, directed upwards, with the fingers of the other hand (showing the watch, meaning: to depart, to take a French leave).
- The Italian elbow gesture.

Germany, Austria

As is the case in many languages featuring a T-V distinction, addressing someone with the familiar second person pronoun (du) when they should be addressed with the formal form (Sie).
The tapping of one's index finger on the side of their head or the waving of one's hand up and down in front of their face (palm of the hand towards the face) are both considered offensive gestures. Both of these gestures, along with the phrase, Sie haben einen Vogel (lit.: You have a bird), insinuate that the other person is crazy or deranged. In some cases, i.e. regarding police officers or judges, the offense may be fined. The severity of this offense has lessened to some extent in the last decades.
Displaying a swastika. Display of Nazi symbols is also illegal in Germany.
It is considered impolite to sniffle in public. Carry tissues with you if you have a cold or allergies.

Greece

Signifying "five" or even "stop" by holding up five fingers, with the palm of the hand facing the listener, especially when the palm is vertical, can be mistaken for an offensive gesture (similar to the finger). When signifying "five" the norm is to have the palm of the hand facing the speaker. Similarly for "Stop" closed fingers should be used.
Referring to the "Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM)" simply as "Macedonia" is considered a hostile practice.

Netherlands

Addressing a stranger, especially older person with the familiar second person pronoun instead of the formal form. Business people in general always use the formal form.
Not closing your umbrella before stepping inside any building, even if there is more than enough room for it open.
Addressing the country as Holland is considered incorrect in most parts of the Netherlands, since Holland only covers two of the provinces of the country.
Asking about a person's income or financial status in a casual conversation, or telling others about your own. This is considered to be private.

Hungary

Confusing the country's capital, Budapest, with Bucharest (Romania's capital).
Making jokes suggesting that the word 'Hungary' sounds like 'hungry'.
Simple generalizations about Eastern Europe can be considered incorrect; confusing Hungarians with Russians is particularly offensive because of Hungary's occupation by the USSR.
Not knowing that Hungarians are not of Slavic origin, unlike most of the neighboring nations, and that the Hungarian language has different linguistic roots from the Czech, Slovak, Russian, Serbian etc. languages can be considered as rude.
In Hungary, people traditionally consider clinking their glasses/mugs when drinking beer as impolite. Clinking with any other alcoholic beverage, such as wine, champagne or hard liquor is customary, however.
When Transylvania (a region in Romania with a significant Hungarian minority) comes up in a conversation, don't react by mentioning Dracula or the Rocky Horror Picture Show. Transylvania has a particular significance in Hungarian history, and Hungarians may get offended when people recognise this region only because of a popular horror story.

India

Eating or touching food with your left hand. Throughout most of the Indian subcontinent the left hand is reserved for bodily hygiene. Thus, the right hand should be used for eating.

Entering the house, or more stringently, the "pooja" room of a house (where the altar of the gods is placed) with shoes on. Although, in the strictest sense, it's an act of blasphemy rather than a 'harmless' faux pas.

Not taking off your footwear before entering a home. Although not as relevant in today's times, its still considered boorish to walk into a home wearing your footwear without asking first.

Asking for cutlery in a setting where everyone else is using their hand to eat food. If you absolutely cannot eat with your hand, make sure to inform your host in advance.

Not complimenting a home-cooked meal. If invited to someone's home for a meal, make sure to compliment the host for the meal.

As in many other countries, India with all its varied languages has two versions of you (formal and informal one, see T-V distinction) in every language - not using them appropriately can be a cause of lot of disapproving frowns.

Raising your voice above that of a senior/elder person, even if in an animated argument, is considered to be a very disrespectful act.

Elders, parents, seniors, professors, teachers, priests and people of prominent stature have to be respectfully and politely addressed. To not do so and to behave very informally even if the relationship is close is considered very unfavourably.

Giving you undergarments to wash with the laundry when you are a guest for a number of days. Men wash their own underwear, guest or no guest.

Ireland

Referring to Britain and Ireland as the British Isles.
Referring to the Republic of Ireland as Éire: although this is the official title of the state in the Irish language, it is considered an irksome term used only by the English.
Referring to the Republic of Ireland as a part of the United Kingdom rather than the independent nation that it is.
Talking about the Troubles in Northern Ireland in a casual conversation.
The Republic of Ireland shares many faux pas in common with the United Kingdom many of which are listed below under the title United Kingdom.
Referring to Derry city or county Derry as Londonderry among the nationalist community, including the Republic of Ireland OR referring to Londonderry as Derry among the unionist community.

Italy

It's forbidden to enter a church if you don't have your upper arms and (male) legs covered by clothes, for women a skirt within a couple of inches of the knee is acceptable. You will be shown outside if you wear very short sleeves or short pants in church. Locals often complain about tourists breaking this rule.

There are also many other faux pas similar to those in France:
- Language and communication
  - Like in many languages, there are two distinct way of addressing people; one familiar used with friends and relatives ("tu"), and one formal used with strangers and (usually) co-workers ("lei"). Thus, it's considered impolite (or even aggressive) to address people with the familiar one when the formal one is seen as appropriate.
- Gifts
  - Offering chrysanthemums is in bad taste, since they are traditionally reserved for mourners and funerals.
  - Offering red roses to a hostess or for professional reasons is inappropriate, as they express love (of the romantic kind).
- In private dinner (these rules are routinely broken in casual dinners, especially with friends).
  - Starting to eat before everybody is ready to begin.
  - Not finishing one's meal. It implies that the food is so poor one cannot finish it, or the host does not provide correct quantity of food one needs (on the other hand, in some regions it's considered impolite to finish one's meal, as it implies that the amount of food was less than expected).
  - Biting into the piece of bread directly (butter, pâté etc should be placed on a small piece broken off, and then put whole init into one's mouth.
  - Bread must be broken with hands and not with a knife or other cutlery: this is because hungry peasants crammed their mouths with food, the better bred were less hungry, and displaying teeth tearing off chunks of bread is not attractice to behold.
  - Resting of the elbows onto the table.
  - Crossing the fork and knife on the plate when the dish is finished; they should be more or less parallel (at the "four o'clock position").
  - Having thirteen persons at a table, as it reminds of the Last Supper, and 13 is considered an unlucky number in most western cultures.
  - Putting a loaf of bread upside down. It is a bad omen because it is said that the loaf that was put upside down by the baker was reserved for the executioner.
- Entering someone's home
  - After entering, leaving one's coat without being invited to do so. One must ask first.
  - Holding one's umbrella open indoors may be seen as an omen of bad luck.
  - Putting one's hat on a bed is considered ominous by some.
- Saluting
  - For a man, not taking off one's hat (or cap) when greeting one's host or a lady.
  - For a man, giving a handshake while wearing a glove.
  - For both sexes, shaking hands with a woman in a casual context introduces distance. Embracing (holding each other loosely in the arms while lightly kissing each other's cheek) is usually expected. The number of cheek-kisses varies from region to region, but it's usually two. With the rise of feminism a few women want to appear strong and independent and are starting to shake hands like men.
- Clothing
  - Wearing light clothes (shorts, mini-skirts, tank-top, etc.) in some contexts, e.g. in a church or at a formal appointment.
  - Though not strictly inappropriate, wearing sandals or flip-flops with socks and, for men, wearing a tank top as casual dress are in particularly bad taste.
- Galanterie-related faux-pas (most of them are old-fashioned, or are becoming so).
  - For a man, passing through a door before a woman and/or not holding her the door.
- Specific inappropriate gestures
  - The Italian elbow gesture.

Japan

Holding anything with chopsticks by two people at the same time, or passing an item from chopsticks to chopsticks is considered very impolite, as it will remind bystanders of the Japanese funeral ritual. Sticking them into food (and especially rice) has similar connotations.
Not having a business card to give out when meeting people for the first time, especially in business.
When greeting or thanking another person, not bowing lower than the other person when the other person is older than you or has a higher social status.
Not using polite language and honorifics when speaking with someone having a higher social status. (Though most Japanese are very lenient with Westerners in this regard.)
Not sending a New Year's postcard to someone who sent you one.
Sending a New Year's postcard to someone who suffered a death in the family during the past year.
Blowing the nose in public (also, the Japanese do not use their handkerchief for hanakuso, literally 'nose shit')

Nicaragua

Knocking loudly on someone's front door. One should knock softly on the door, or call the person's name from outside.
Referring to the United States as 'America'. To Nicaraguans, they too are 'Americans'. The USA should be referred to as 'Los Estados Unidos', and in adjective form as 'estadounidense'.
Displaying the thumb inserted between the index finger and middle finger curled toward the palm is considered obscene.

Romania, Russia, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Serbia, Poland

Giving somebody an even number of flowers. Even numbers of flowers are used at funerals. This does not apply to bouquets larger than a dozen items.
Using a knife when eating fish. This is considered rustic and boorish. Fish should be broken up with a fork, two forks or a special knife.
Using a knife to food in gele. This is considered ill-mannered.
In Russia: pouring a beverage for oneself at a gathering is considered unlucky. You should pour the tea/vodka/wine/whatever for the table, and let your seat neighbour pour for you.
In Russia & Poland: sitting at a corner of a table is considered bad luck for an unmarried girl, as she will not find a husband.
Not taking your shoes off when you enter somebody's home (except for more official occasions).
You can be late for an evening party, but never for lunch. It is considered to be rude.
In Russia & Poland: entering someone's home for an event/dinner without a token gift is impolite. Bringing flowers, wine, cake or chocolates as a hostess gift is proper. Vodka is also an appropriate gift for a male host. This rule is rescinded among good friends.
Making a ringing noise with your spoon when stirring a hot beverage is bad table manners.
In Russia & Poland: greeting guests and conducting transactions (i.e. paying the pizza delivery man) over the doorstep. This is considered unlucky: wait for the person to step inside or step outside yourself.
In Russia & Poland: making phone calls after 22:00 (unless by previous appointment or calling a friend). If it is an emergency apologize for interrupting right at the beginning of the conversation. It is impolite to call before 17:00 on Sundays.
In Poland: dressing casually for Easter, Christmas or other family celebrations is very rude.
In Poland: one should not compare Poland to Russia, juxtapose these two countries, or place them in the same cultural group. Mistaking the Russian 'Zdrastwujtie' with the Polish 'Dzien dobry' (or eg. capital cities - Moscow with Warsaw) is considered extremely rude.
In Poland: like in Canada It is considered disrespectful for a man not to remove his hat when inside a church, however this does not refer to women.
In Russia & Poland: failing to say 'bon appetit!', when eating with someone.
In Russia & Poland: addressing people using their family name or by 'you' if you are not after so called bruderschaft.
In Russia & Poland: asking woman what age she is (this is simply braking savoir vivre).

Norway, Sweden, Denmark

Not taking off your shoes when entering someone's home.
Being late. The Nordic countries are unusually punctual, with meetings, events, and public transport usually happening on time.
Placing a phonecall to somebody after 22:00.
Calling Norway, Sweden and Denmark "Scandinavia", as if they were one country.
It is considered rude not to have a general idea of capitals, different cultures, etc. within the Nordic countries.
Assuming that someone speaks English, German or French. Although mostly everyone under the age of 50 does speak English, it is polite to ask first and commend them for their effort.
Do not complain about the prices in Norway. Norwegians are aware that it is expensive, but find it annoying when visitors comment on it.
Do not assume that the US Dollar or Euro is accepted in stores. However, most shops and restaurants will accept credit cards.
When travelling to Scandinavia, be aware that bringing large amounts of food, beer and other articles is considered rude. This is implying that the products found in local stores are of lesser quality.
Constantly complaining about the weather. People are generally well aware of weather conditions in their respective countries and will find it insulting if your only comment on their country, culture and heritage is that "the weather is rainy".
When visiting from overseas it would be considered rude not to bring token gifts from your country of origin. E.g. a local wine, toys, t-shirts, etc. However, too expensive items will embarrass your host.
Shaking hands across a doorway.
Not taking off headwear, such as a baseball cap, when entering a house or other building.
Food and drink
- When invited to a dinner never make the first toast. Always allow the host or hostess to do the first toast.
- Sitting down to eat without removing outer garments, such as a winter jacket.
- Not finishing your food. This implies that the food is so terrible that you could not eat it. Explanation and apologies should be provided in case of uneaten food.
- Taking the last piece of food from a serving plate (e.g. the last meatball or the last cookie). Taking the last piece suggests that you are greedy.
Smoking
- Smoking indoors is illegal in public places according to norwegian law.
- Smoking indoors in private places without asking permission is considered rude. Offer the host to smoke outside and he/she may grant you permission to smoke indoors. Even if the host smokes or has ashtrays indoors, you should still ask if it is okay if you smoke (as long as he/she doesn't offer you a cigarette).

Spain

Giving money (for the petrol) to someone who gives you a ride home.
Only students pay their own bill when going out for a drink. People in friendly terms routinely pay a round each (no accountants needed).
Assuming Spanish people speak English. It is usually polite to ask them first, as due to the high british tourist population in areas like Benidorm and Alicante, Spanish people tend to see those who bellow english racously at natives as idiotic holidaymakers.

In general, the items listed above for Germany, Austria and the Nordic countries also apply to Switzerland, in particular to the German-speaking part of the country. In the French-speaking part, social customs tend to be closer to those of France (see also above).

Trying to imitate the local dialect or raising an eyebrow about the peculiarities or pronunciation of the Swiss variety of standard German is considered very rude

Thailand

Touching somebody on the head (in Buddhism the head is the most pure region of the body). Strictly speaking this also applies to children.
Stepping over or standing on bills or coins (money is another symbol of good fortune and prosperity, stepping on it or over it signifies disrespect. More importantly, currency usually depicts the King, and it is a sign of utmost disrespect to place your foot above the head of the King.) Similarly, licking the back of a postage stamp - which also features the King's image - is another faux pas.
Pointing your foot at somebody (e.g. while sitting cross-legged, etc.). Following the logic that the head is the most sacred part of the body, the foot is the least sacred. In Buddhist temples particularly, it is important to sit with your feet tucked back, otherwise they will be pointing at the Buddha.

United Kingdom

Not apologising if you and a stranger bump into each other, even if it was not your fault. This is sometimes (althought rarely) extended to the point of apologising even without any contact, but the appearance of a possible collision.
Asking someone's name, job or other seemingly 'innocent' topics is often recieved coldly by Britons - it is often felt to be an invasion of privacy, and you should find other, more indirect, ways of finding this information out. Similarly, talking about relationships - even very old ones - is often interpreted as a signal of availability and should be avoided.
Signifying "two" of something by holding up two fingers separated with the back of the hand pointed towards the listener can be mistaken for an offensive gesture (similar to the finger). Holding up two fingers with the hand held the other way (palm of the hand towards the listener) is perfectly acceptable (As it forms the "Peace" sign and the "V for victory" sign used during World War II).
Calling the united - but culturally and socially independent - countries (Scotland, England, Wales and Northern Ireland) "England". Highly offensive to everybody including the English. The equivalent, in North America, is calling Canada the "51st state". Sensitivity is appreciated regarding national identity (some prefer to be "English", some "British", some "Scottish", etc.).
It is generally considered rude for people travelling from abroad or of non-British nationality to speak their language in the presence of english speaking citizens, particularly in a socially intimate siutation. This is interpreted as dismissive and anti-social.
Stereotyping about the British in general or making jokes about any of England, Northern Ireland, Scotland or Wales. It will seem snobbish, as will comments on the EU (especially when made by the French), the “Special relationship”(particularly when made by Americans) or the now-defunct British Empire.
An old axiom states that there are three topics one should avoid in normal conversations: politics, sex and religion, although this is becoming less relevant in modern society. (See below for United States equivalent.)
Not saying 'please' and 'thank you' when requesting anything, for example say please after a request; “Can I have an apple, please.” You must say “thank you” or “thanks” once you receive it. In an informal setting, "cheers" or "ta" can replace "thanks".
It is considered proper to hold doors open for others before you pass the threshold yourself, particularly for women, the elderly or those carrying heavy or bulky goods that could prevent them opening the door themselves. If the door is held open for you a “thank you” is expected, even in hotels where people are paid to do this for you. Parents with pushchairs (Strollers, to use the Americanism) and prams should be helped over the doorway or steps, as should those on crutches or carrying heavy goods. However help should be offered before any physical contact, even that of helping an Old Age Pensioner with their bags, can occur. A 'thank you' is normal for this sort of help, and a 'you are welcome' (or more casually "no trouble") is also expected by the person helping to acknowledge the thanks. “You’re welcome” is expected as a response to almost all thanks and the level of thanks and counter-thanks and acknowledgement may be significantly higher than in other Anglophone nations. For example there is nothing unusual in thanking a bus driver for saying “You’re welcome” when you thanked him for handing you your change but it is not too common.
Leaving your knife and fork in any fashion other than parallel to each other, with the head of the cutlery at the top of plate. A "Five O'Clock" angle is common, but the whole matter is a matter of national habit as much as it is a matter of manners.
Asking how much something is worth, when you are making a purchase. This is not to be confused with how much the cost is.
Asking a unfamiliar woman for her age (especially if she appears old than yourself) or phone number (especially if the motivation is romantic) With the common usage of mobile telephone nowadays this is less of an issue than it used to be.
Queueing is expected when there is any demand for an item. The only exception to this is a pub or bar, where finding a space at the bar displays your intention. However it is still considered extremely rude to allow a barperson to serve you before someone who has been waiting longer than you.
Reading a book, newspaper or computer screen over somebody’s shoulder is considered a violation of privacy and is very rude.
Death and (any) war should never be mentioned in polite conversation without good reason. Comments by US citizens on 'saving' Britain (or any other European country) in the Second World War will not go down well.
Jokes about tea and the price of petrol are rarely welcome. Tea (and the pint) are long-standing British institutions and are not a welcome subject for jokes by foreign guests. Joking about British institutions such as the monarchy may be considered irksome to some, but joking about tea and "warm" beer is practically unforgivable. By all means ask for coffee or a beer from a foreign country if you prefer, and Brits will accommodate you. Just don’t complain (jokingly or otherwise) without actually trying the local drinks. Brits are also well aware of the fact that many goods in Britain are more expensive than in the continental Europe or in North America (particularly petrol). As the popular British comedian/motor journalist Jeremy Clarkson said "It's because it's not that mile-a-gallon claptrap you get in America."
Referring to petrol as "gas"^[1], your buttocks as your "fanny" or using other American dialect words may be considered amusing at your expense at best and downright irritating at worst by Brits (especially older ones) and can lead to confusion. Many English words have different, sometimes contradictory or offensive (such as fanny) meanings in Britain and the USA or Canada. A basic knowledge of British word usage is looked kindly upon from visitors from other Anglophone nations, although those who do not speak English as a first language will be given far more clemency.
Commenting on, or complaining about, the weather is practically a British national sport, but has associated faux pas. Foreign guests, particularly from other Anglophone countries that enjoy a more clement climate should avoid jokes on the British weather. Mostly this will be taken in good spirit and is not seen as impolite, but the stipulation that it always rains in Britain may be taken badly, particularly in Birmingham or Manchester, which are both considered the butt of jokes for the rest of Britain about their level of rainfall. Brits also use the weather as a convenient topic of conversation when they are desperately trying to avoid saying what is on their minds or avoiding the topic of conversation raised by another. If, in conversation with a Brit, he keeps trying to bring the conversation back to the point of weather, then the chances are that what you have been saying has embarrassed or upset him in some way and they are attempting to change the subject.
In Britain it is considered tiresome to ask why things differ from continental Europe and the United States/Canada. Before asking why Brits drive on the left or a similar question, consider if (and why) that question is at all interesting or relevant. (In the 18th century in Britain, there was a real problem with highwaymen and gentlemen on horseback rode on the left so that if a footpad (criminal) in the centre of the road demanded money with a weapon they could draw a pistol in their right hand and fire without having to shoot across their horse’s neck.)
In the United Sates it is common to vocally thank the host after a meal, often stopping to propose a toast. In Britain a small gift for the host given upon entering such as flowers for the table of wine or chocolates for the meal combined with more subdued thanks is more common, and excessive verbal praise could appear insincere (or even sarcastic), particularly if the hosts suspect you did not enjoy the meal but are thanking them anyway. However, where excessive thanks may be seen as insincere or false, excessive apologies are not and if there is some blunder or accident it is usual to offer far more apologies than is common in other countries, even if the blunder was not your fault. Likewise it is not done to become angry after such an accident, at least not in public.
Complaining if the person who called an important meeting is late can be seen as impolite in some more traditional businesses. If they are important enough to call the meeting they are important enough to wait for. If they are significantly late, call a secretary or less senior co-worker and politely inquire about their whereabouts. If you have to call them, inquire about traffic (unless they are in the same building as you, in which case they will see you as being very sarcastic) or politely ask if their previous meeting overran. Never directly question their whereabouts, or imply that they are late or forgot the meeting. If they arrive late, and apologise for being late, say that you did not notice. If they ask if they are late, say that you are sure no one noticed, but thank them for their feedback and say you will sort out time keeping for the next meeting. Just because they are worth waiting for does not mean you should have to wait for them twice. Also, as the old saying goes, the Queen is never late - she arrives exactly when she pleases, it just may not be when everyone else hoped she would.

United States

In Alaska and much of the Pacific Northwest, not taking your shoes off when you enter somebody's home. This is also considered a faux pas by some Americans of Filipino or other Asian descent. During the winter shoes should be taken off in order to prevent tracking dirt and water into the home.
Not looking someone directly in the eye when speaking can be seen as evasive; this is in contrast to much of the rest of the world, where looking someone directly in the eye may be rude. Contrary to this, sustained eye contact with strangers is not only seen as rude, but in certain public places (such as the New York City Subway or areas considered gang territory), it can be considered an act of overt aggression.
Sitting or standing too close to a stranger or acquaintance. A distance of an arm's length is preferable, although most US residents will understand that in crowded situations one may have to sit or stand closer than usual. Additionally, failing to say "excuse me" if physical contact is made (even mistakenly) is highly offensive and could sometimes provoke conflict in some areas.
Opening a door that someone has closed for privacy without knocking or otherwise seeking permission is considered rude and an invasion of privacy.
Physical touch other than handshakes in very formal business settings. The least objectionable zone is the arm or shoulder. However, it's best for men to avoid touching women and for superordinates to avoid touching subordinates unless it is to shake hands.
Kissing on the cheeks as a greeting in a business setting is not considered rude but may be considered inappropriate. Between the sexes it may even be considered sexual harassment.
A man should not enter a building or pass through a doorway first if he is in the company of a female(s). This is considered very impolite, particularly among older people and in the South (conversely, some women may be offended if a man goes out of his way to hold a door). In some business settings, however, the junior person often holds the door regardless of gender. (The customer is always the most senior person).
A man not removing his hat when coming indoors. Religious and cultural headwear are usually excluded from this rule. In some circles this is becoming less common, as hats have become less formal over the years, with most male hat wearers today preferring the very informal baseball cap. A reduction in the significance of Christianity in everyday life has also contributed to this trend; it was sometimes said that "a good Christian takes off his hat inside", which unintentionally left room for those who do not consider themselves Christian to exempt themselves. It is still considered disrespectful for a man not to remove his hat when inside a church.
A man not removing his hat (even outside) during some revered ceremony, such as during the flag salute or a prayer.
A man not removing his hat inside a courtroom is considered a contempt by the judge.
In Northern California, referring to San Francisco as "Frisco", "San Fran" or some other abbreviation is seen as rude. Calling it "The City" is an acceptable alternative.
Some consider it a faux pas for the male to let the female pay for a movie, dinner, etc. on a date. The influence of feminism, and the increased socioeconomic status of women in general, have eroded this custom over the last few decades; however, some young men still believe they are obligated to pay for everything on a date, and this can sometimes lead to awkward verbal fights. It is not uncommon for a dinner to be paid evenly.
Not waiting to be seated in a restaurant. Note that this rule is generally irrelevant in fast food establishments, where food is ordered and delivered over a counter, rather than at the table. Many if not most restaurants have signs indicating whether one should wait to be seated, or take a seat and wait for the server.
Not leaving a proper tip or gratuity for a waiter at a restaurant (unless dissatisfied with service). It is gradually becoming more common for American restaurants, especially chains, to ask for a tip and to have the corresponding item on the bill to be filled by the patron.
Detailed compliments or questions addressed to a colleague in a business setting about his or her looks, grooming, or dress. Special exceptions may apply in the fashion or entertainment industries.
Unfamiliar persons initiating telephone calls failing to identify themselves, or beginning the conversation by asking the person who picked up the phone, "Who is this?". Although, the more polite form "(And) May I ask who's calling?" is generally allowed.
Interrupting face-to-face conversations to take incoming telephone calls, except in cases of emergency.
Calling someone on the telephone unexpected after bedtime or, especially on weekends, early in the morning.
Queries in a social setting about the income of one's interlocutor, or about the price he or she has paid for a product or service.
Requesting a free consultation from a professional during a social event.
Ignoring the "first come, first served" principle in a setting where it is customary, also known as "cutting in line", "butting", or (in parts of Canada) "jumping the queue."
Signifying "stop" with the back of the hand faced towards the listener with fingers closed, as one would in Greece. This would look extremely similar to a signal most Americans would interpret as a threat of physical violence towards the listener, although one that is sometimes used jokingly.
Signifying "two" of something by holding two fingers up with the palm of the hand pointed towards the listener, as one would in Great Britain, is not offensive, but is likely to be misinterpreted as "peace". Some American listeners (particularly those under 30 years of age) would interpret the signal of two fingers sideways and pointed inwards (towards the speaker's body) as "peace", in the context of a colloquial greeting. It is largely accepted as a positive sign, but is not considered a tool of normal conversation.
Raising the middle finger (with back of hand facing person or self) is always a hostile gesture. Similarly, raising the hand like one would with the middle finger is considered the same.
Disrupting a conversation by switching to a language not understood by all of your interlocutors.
An old axiom states that there are two topics one should avoid in normal conversations: politics and religion
In many circles, jokes making light of particular ethnicities, religions, or other groups, that might be accepted lightly in other countries, may cause offence or discomfort even when no members of that group are present.
Using Christian, religious holiday greetings as a salutation to observant Jews or in a business setting. Also it is consider rude not to return a holiday greeting.
Failing to say "God bless you", "gesundheit", or "Bless you" when someone sneezes.^{[citation needed]}
Asking the wearer if an item of jewelry is real or fake while in a formal setting.
Asking someone what their age or weight is, especially women (applies to United Kingdom also, but to a lesser extent).
Asking a woman if she is pregnant. If this is asked and the woman is not pregnant, then the question will be interpreted as an insult to appearance.
Having awkward silences. Although this is not a full-blown taboo, it is uncomfortable and may leave a bad impression. Things such as small talk should be used to help end the silence.
It is not considered common to ask to sample a food before deciding whether to buy it, either at a restaurant or other eatery. It is however acceptable in most cases to sample small food items at a grocery store in produce sections, e.g. trying one grape off the bunch before deciding whether to purchase the grapes. The same does not apply to larger fruits and vegetables.
In North America, racist comments towards native populations are extremely socially unacceptable.
One should not refer to Canadians as "Americans". (Referring to them as North Americans is acceptable.) "America Junior" is straight out insulting.
At dinner parties (private dinners where the host invites you to his/her home):
- Showing up empty-handed. Unless specified beforehand, it's considered proper etiquette for the guests to bring either wine or dessert. Conversely, bringing another item, such as hard liquor or a food dish other than a dessert, will almost always be viewed as strange or rude by the host and/or other guests (unless it is a potluck dinner).
- Refusing food in large amounts, unless you cannot consume the food served for legitimate dietary reasons (religious restrictions: kosher, halal, etc.; life-long dietary habits: vegetarian, vegan, etc.; health restrictions: allergy, alcoholism, diabetes, lactose intolerance). If the food is not to your personal liking, it's best to take a very small amount, rather than refuse it altogether. Further, if you do have a dietary restriction, it's very wise to inform the host beforehand; not doing so may embarrass or offend the host.
- Commentings negatively on the quality of the food, even if it is prepared poorly or is substandard.
- Not thanking the host properly. A simple "Thank you" is generally not enough. Most guests will "over thank" the host, sometimes to the point where a guest may pause the dinner to raise a toast in thanks for the host's hospitality.
- Bringing uninvited guests. Because hosts will rarely turn a person away, this can sometimes make the entire meal awkward, as there may not be enough food prepared or physical space at the table for the unannounced guest. Bringing a spouse or significant other unannounced can be acceptable, although in that case the host will most likely invite the spouse him/herself.
- Discussing topics like religion, politics, racism, etc. can be terribly rude and/or awkward if you do not know the beliefs of your host and the other guests.
- Monopolizing the conversation, unless the other guests are visibily enjoying your conversation.
- Not offering to help clear the table or help with dishes after the meal is over.
- Leaving the venue immediately after eating. A good time estimate is to leave 30-60 minutes after the last course is served.
- The definition of "fashionably late" changes with culture. In North America it is considered rude and even obnoxious to be more than 30 minutes late unless the hosts and the guests are very close or intimate friends. It is not uncommon for social functions to have both a beginning and an ending time; compliance with those times will avoid frictions with the hosts.

Note

^ If you say that your car runs on "gas", sometimes people may interpret as the car running on autogas or LPG.

References

Canadian etiquette for business travellers accessed June 19, 2006