8 strange dining rituals around the world
Depending on the culture, each place will have its own rules for enjoying food. Knowing these customs before setting foot in a new land will help visitors have a more complete experience.
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To leave some food on the plate (China):In Chinese culture, an empty plate indicates that the diner is still hungry and that the host has not served enough food. It is also considered rude to finish all the food. Photo: Restaurant Clicks |
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Eating with hands (India):According to Hindus, the five fingers represent the five elements: water, air, fire, earth and space. In addition, they believe that food is given by the Supreme Being and must be received with bare hands in a respectful manner. According to Indians, the custom of eating with hands creates a deep connection with food, helping to enjoy the food more deliciously. Photo: Wego Travel Blog |
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Slurp noodles (Japan)may be considered rude in some cultures. But in Japan, it is a common practice to show the chef that the noodles are delicious. However, this culture is also controversial for some international tourists. They consider slurping noodles to be a disruptive behavior when eating noodles. Photo:LIVEJAPAN Perfect Guide |
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No clinking glasses (Hungary):This strange custom is related to an event in 1849. When the Austrian government successfully suppressed the Hungarian uprising, a group of Austrian soldiers celebrated by clinking their glasses of beer. Since then, the act of clinking glasses has been considered taboo in this country, because it reminds Hungarians of the event. Photo: Business Insider |
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Avoid flipping the fish (Hong Kong, China):Flipping fish in Hong Kong is also known as "dao yue". According to Hong Kong people, flipping fish implies that the fisherman's boat will capsize. Therefore, this action is considered to bring bad luck. Hong Kong people will eat the fish from one side, then remove the backbone and continue eating the rest of the meat. Photo: Concrete Playground |
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Never order a cappuccino after lunch (Italy):In Italy, locals don’t order this drink after lunch. The origin of this habit is because cappuccino contains milk, which Italians believe can cause digestive disorders when enjoyed after lunch. The ideal time to enjoy this drink in Italy is in the morning. Photo: Mangia Magna |
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Don't ask to split the bill (France, Greece):Splitting the bill may be common in some cultures, but it is considered rude and impolite in France and Greece. You can either pay the entire bill or let someone else pay and pay for the next time you meet. Photo: Travel.Earth |
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Don't fill your own glass (Egypt):At the dinner table, Egyptians do not fill their own glasses with water. Instead, they ask the person sitting next to them to fill their glasses. In addition, diners should only start their meal after the host says “Sahtain,” which means “Please eat.” If invited to a meal by an Egyptian family, remember to bring a box of chocolates or cakes as a warm way to return the favor. Photo: Tayf Egypt |