Culture and etiquette are often different from what you are used to in Italy, and it can vary widely - what may be perfectly normal in one country can sometimes be a grave insult in another. Here are some helpful tips, when you are expatriate in one of the following popular assignment destinations: Australia, United Arab Emirates, China and USA: Etiquette tips for China Tipping: Only in Hong Kong this is appreciated (10-15% in restaurant) Gestures: Shake hands for greeting Rude to whistle or snap Point with open hand Dining: “Gan bei” means “Cheers” Only use chopsticks, not forks Do avoid slurping Refill your neighbours glass, but never your own glass Do: Please dress conservatively Always use both hands when giving/receiving gifts Generally avoid physical contact while conserving Etiquette tips for Australia Tipping: It’s not custom leave a tip in Australia. Gestures: It is common to give a handshake for greeting “V” (peace sign) with palm facing inward – rude Middle finger -obscene gesture Thumbs up – obscene gesture Dining: “Cheers!” = Cheers Keep elbows off table Leaving utensils on plate means: I have finished eating. It is common to bring your own beer to restaurants Do: Dress casually in most situations Use first names (informal address) Offer to help host clean up or prepare Etiquette tips for the United Arab Emirates Tipping: It is expected to give 10% in restaurants You should round up taxi fare Gestures: Lingering handshake for greeting Kiss on nose for greeting Point with whole hand Dining: When you say “Schucrame!” it means “Cheers” Keep left hand off table and away from food Do not drink alcohol When you place utensils in center of the plate it means you have finished. Do: Cross legs at ankle not knee Do Not: Show the bottom of your feet Point toe or foot at anyone Etiquette tips for United States of America Tipping: It is obligatory to leave 10-20% in restaurant Give $1-$2 per drink for the bartender Pay 5-10% taxi tips Gestures: Middle finger – extremely rude Shake hands for greeting Middle finger extremely rude Thumbs = approval Making circle with thumb and forefinger = OK Beckon with palm up Dining: “Cheers!” = Cheers Elbows off table, one hand in lap Napkin in lap Polite to clear plate Put down knife before taking a bite Do: Give firm handshakes Do Not: Invade other’s personal space