Business Insider India has updated its Privacy and Cookie policy. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the better experience on our website. If you continue without changing your settings, we\'ll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies on the Business Insider India website. However, you can change your cookie setting at any time by clicking on our Cookie Policy at any time. You can also see our Privacy Policy.
Knowing how to greet someone when visiting another country can help you avoid an awkward encounter.
Advertisement
From bowing in Japan to kissing on the cheek three times in the Ukraine, here is how you say hello in 12 countries around the world.
France: Kiss on each cheek
Flickr/Simon Blackley
The common greeting in France is kissing on the cheek. Typically, it will be two kisses but the number of kisses can vary depending on the region. As a common starting point, offer your right cheek and let the other person lead.
Japan: A bow
Shutterstock/Rawpixel
In Japan, the preferred way to greet someone you're meeting is to bow to one another.
Argentina: Kiss on the right cheek
The Philippines: Mano
AP/Aaron Favila
When greeting elders, take their hand and press their knuckles against your forehead as a sign of respect.
Russia: A firm handshake
Flickr/Flazingo Photos
In Russia, a firm handshake is the standard way for men to greet one another in public.
Tibet: Sticking your tongue out
Flickr/Kathy
This tradition dates back to the 9th century and references the Tibetan king Lang Darma, who was known for his evil ways and had a black tongue. People still greet each other this way today.
India: Namaste
Shutterstock/O'SHI
This greeting is carried out by placing your hands together in a praying position with your fingers pointed upwards and bowing slightly when you say "Namaste."
Ukraine: A triple kiss
Thailand: Wai
Greenland: Kunik
Wikimedia Commons
This one is a greeting typically done with those you're close with. To perform it, place your nose and upper lip against the cheek or forehead of the other person and take a breath.
Botswana: An elaborate handshake
YouTube/UBuntu Bridge
To say hello in Botswana, extend your right hand and take the other person's hand in a typical handshake position. Next, grip the other person's hand so that your thumbs interlock and raise your right arm up. Finally, return to the handshaking position for one more shake.
New Zealand: Hongi (touching noses)
Wikimedia Commons
Advertisement
Known as hongi, this traditional Maori greeting in New Zealand is done by pressing your nose and forehead to another person's at the same time.