The good thing about the British is that we are completely normal. No, really, we are, no strange habits, no odd ways of doing things. It’s those others that get things the wrong way round. You know, those foreigners, the people that live abroad.
If you’re considering a career break in the near future, there are a few strange customs you should be made aware of. You never know, it may save you a lot of embarrassment at a vital time. Have a look at some of this lot and you’ll be left feeling relatively normal:-
Indonesia – Thumbs Out!
OK, you’re in Indonesia; you enjoyed a delicious evening meal and maybe had a little too much to drink. The smattering of language you’ve learned is now a distant memory and you need to let the nice man in the restaurant know which way your accommodation is, so naturally you raise your finger and point. Not in Indonesia you don’t. Use your thumb!! The use of your forefinger to point is considered extremely rude and you may find yourself out in the street, wondering where you went wrong.
Thailand – Knees Front
Amid the dazzling temptations and attractions of the eclectic city of Bangkok it’s easy to get lost in the moment and forget yourself. If you’ve recently watched The Hangover Part Two you’ll know exactly what I mean but that’s not what I’m referring to here. Whatever you do, mind how you sit. Do not cross your legs, no matter how habitual it is – the Thai people consider leg crossing in public offensive, which is interesting, considering some of the other ‘activities’ that locals find acceptable.
Greece – Babies
Perhaps you’ve decided to take your whole family along on your career break, including your baby. When an elderly Greek gentleman approaches, coos at aforesaid youngster and then spits on him or her, give him a hug and express your gratitude. He’s simply ensuring protection against evil spirits and bad luck. Maybe you’ll want to adopt him. The old Greek guy I mean.
Amazonian Burial Traditions
Don’t get ill in the Amazon. Or if you do, keep away from the Yanomami tribe. When one of their tribe dies, there’s no daft digging of holes in the ground (we call them graves). The body is cremated and the ashes and bone fragments ground into powder. The bereaved then eat what’s left. Nice.
India – Babies Again – Bouncing Ones This Time
If you happen to have opted for some volunteer work abroad and you’re nonchalantly strolling down a street in Solapur, India, one morning, don’t be surprised if you’re suddenly bombarded by babies falling out of the sky. Hopefully if you pay attention you won’t trip over the outstretched sheet that’s used to catch them. Yes, it’s true! This annual non-religious festival takes place every year, where babies are thrown from a 15m tower. Nobody understands the origins of this quite bizarre tradition but they’re all very grateful that every single baby has been safely caught. So far.
No Loo Breaks in Borneo
Romance can happen anywhere, anytime, we know that. We are not advising against it but we are advising against getting wed in Borneo, no matter who you fall in love with. The Tidong people forbid newly weds from any toilet breaks for three days and three nights after the wedding. That means no baths either – we can’t have them cheating can we? Apparently it leads to a long and happy married life, with lots of children. So that’s the secret!
Long Finger Nails in Indonesia
Apparently it’s not unusual for the people of Indonesia to have one extremely longer finger nail just on one hand. You really don’t want to know the reason for this – what, you do? OK. It’s apparently due to the dearth of public toilets in Indonesia, meaning that those caught short have to use whatever implements they have at their disposal….. hence the fingernail. If you find yourself in Indonesia, be careful which hand you shake when you meet someone new. At least we understand the reason why they use their thumbs to point now!
You’ll no doubt encounter some strange customs of your own during your career break but all I can say is be grateful. Be grateful for the cheese rolling, gurning, maypole dancing, Morris dancing British. Without us, there’d be no sanity in the world. You know it’s true.
Our guest author, Kate, is a seasoned traveller who never ceases to be amazed at weird and wonderful customs from around the world.
