What does that have to do with peace? A LOT! Knowing different customs, might prevent you to getting into trouble, knowing how to, when to and when not to might empower you to gain respect and confidence, knowing all about it, will definately get you some points of admiration!
|
THIS MONTH: The art of KISSING |
FRANCE
For the French, kissing is a way of life. Paris adopted a four-kiss greeting years ago. The sequence is left cheek first, always. In Brittany, they follow a three-kiss routine and in most other parts of France they restrict themselves to a restrained two-kiss greeting. The exception is the Cote d'Azur where a five- or six-kissing pattern is not unusual.
|
NETHERLANDS
In the Netherlands, you begin and end your kiss on the same cheek. Three kisses are expected, but if you are greeting an elderly or close family member, add a few more to show your affection. Right cheek first is the rule
|
BELGIUM
If you are about the same age as the person you are greeting, one kiss is the rule. For someone at least 10 years older than you, then three kisses is seen as a mark of respect.
|
SPAIN, AUSTRIA and SCANDINAVIA
Spain, Austria and Scandinavia are each content with the two-kiss ritual. In Scandinavia is more a cheek to cheek greeting. In Spain the rule is strictly right cheek first.
|
