We have all experienced a culture shock once in our lives. When we travel to Egypt, for example, we may be confused to discover that a bride is pinched by her friends before a wedding to bring good luck. However, each tradition can teach us something valuable about the country and its culture. We will present 7 amazing traditions that still exist today and will continue to intrigue us.
Smashing Plates Before A Wedding, Germany
A few weeks before the wedding in Germany, there is a tradition known as Polterabend. The couple’s guests bring crushed pottery to the couple’s home. Then the bride and groom must clean up the mess, an act that is believed to bring good luck and encourage teamwork for the upcoming wedding.
Don’t Clink Glasses Before Drinking, Hungary
When you visit Hungary, you will be surprised to find that people don’t clink glasses at the bar. This historical tradition dates back to 1848 when Austria defeated the Hungarian revolution and celebrated with the noise of the glasses. As a result, the Hungarians decided not to touch the cups for 150 years.
No Using The Bathroom After Marriage, Indonesia
In the community of Tidong, Indonesia, a couple cannot go to the bathroom for three days after the wedding. If they do, it is considered unfortunate for their marriage. The bride and groom are supervised by their relatives, who guarantee that they do not break this tradition while given small amounts of food and water.
Arrive Late, Venezuela
Whether you attend an event, meeting, or party in Venezuela, it is common for people to arrive later than originally planned. Venezuelans enjoy a relaxed pace when it comes to business, and for big social events that are late, it just means making a grand entrance.
Don’t Give A Yellow Rose, Mexico
Roses are a great gift to show emotions anywhere in the world. However, when choosing a color, some countries associate special meanings with certain roses. In Mexico, it is better to keep a traditional red rose than a yellow rose, which means death in Mexican culture.
No Toilet Paper, India
Many travelers will be surprised to discover that toilet paper in India is not common in bathrooms. In fact, water from a small bucket next to the toilet is used to wash up afterward. Using toilet paper is often a bad idea, as it can clog pipes and create additional waste.
Business Meetings In A Sauna, Finland
The sauna is a big part of Finnish culture, and it serves not only as a historical place to give birth but also as a place to discuss business or even politics. In fact, it is a common tradition in the business world for colleagues or business partners to go out to the sauna together and speak in a more relaxed atmosphere.
