Ever had one of those moments when you’re in a foreign country or meeting a business client from abroad and you’re frantically searching for a gift? Most probably, we’d guess. Now imagine you had a handy list of all the dos and don’ts for gift etiquette around the world. You can visit this link to get more information about it.
EUROPE
UK – Never give lilies as a gift as they are associated with death
Spain – If giving flowers, do not give 13 stems (an unlucky number in many cultures), dahlias or chrysanthemums
Germany – Whisky, books or classical music are considered good gift options
Italy – Avoid using black and gold when wrapping gifts as these are traditionally associated with mourning
Portugal – When invited to someone’s house, bringing expensive chocolates or flowers (except chrysanthemums) is good practice
France – Always give a high-quality gift wrapped beautifully (check out luxury gift wrapping services at House of Rokoko)
Netherlands – Do not be excessively generous with your gifting, keeping it modest is preferable
Russia – Always give gifts that are considered “unattainable” or at least hard-to-find
Switzerland – If someone gives you a gift it is customary to return the favor
AMERICAS & THE CARIBBEAN
Argentina – It is considered impolite to give clothing as a gift
Brazil – It is common practice to send a bouquet of flowers before or after visiting someone’s house for dinner
Canada – It’s frowned upon to give gifts of red roses or white lilies, the colours of the Canadian flag
Mexico – Try to bring or send flowers when you’re a guest in a Mexican household
USA – Don’t give money as a present
Venezuela – Some say you should give a present of fine wine or Scotch
AUSTRALIA & ASIA
Australia – Wine is considered a gift that doesn’t show much effort
China – Apparently clocks are symbols of death so don’t give one as a gift unless you want to offend your host
Japan – It is best to present a gift with a both hands and a slight bow (as you will have seen in countless TV shows and movies)
South Korea – Don’t wrap gifts in dark colours or red, instead go for bright, vivid shades
Malaysia – It is inappropriate to give money or alcohol as a gift
Singapore – If you’ve been invited for a meal, it is always good etiquette to bring a gift for the host or hostess
Thailand – It is not customary to open a gift in front of the giver, you must wait to be asked
Vietnam – It is generally recommended to choose practical gifts wrapped in bright paper
AFRICA
Egypt – If you’re visiting someone’s home for the very first time it is polite to bring a gift
Ghana & Nigeria – Don’t give a gift with the left hand only
Ivory Coast – It is a custom to give gifts to people who are well respected in the community
South Africa – 21st and 40th birthdays are the most important in South Africa and presents are typically lavish
MIDDLE EAST
Abu Dhabi – Giving a personal gift, one that required thought, is appreciated
Dubai – When offered a gift, it is impolite to refuse it
Qatar – Always give a gift of high quality
Saudi Arabia – Avoid giving flowers, perfume or alcohol (the latter applies in much of the Middle East, since Muslims don’t generally drink alcohol).