Cultures and Traditions of the Countries in Asia

Saudi Arabia (Food)

- 'Kapsa/Kabsa' is the best known dish in Saudi - essentially consisting of rice with a roasted meat (lamb, camel or chicken). It is eaten every day. - Fast-food outlets are now to be found across the Kingdom as are other international cuisines. - The traditional staple foods of Saudi culture were dates, goat, camel, milk, ghee, cheese, bread and other foods from wheat, millet, and barley as well as some basic vegetable and herbs such as mint, coriander, parsley, and cumin. - Muslims do not drink alcohol or eat meat that is not ritually slaughtered (halal). - Three meals are usually eaten - breakfast, lunch & dinner. Dinner is usually eaten very late in the evening around 10pm. Lunches can be long and lazy affairs. - Tea and coffee are very popular drinks throughout the day. - Food is a central part of Saud life and they go to great efforts to please guests at meals.

Japan (Social Customs & Protocol)

- (NAMING) In Japan people have two names, the surname and the given name. The surname comes before the given name and is inherited from the father. - (GREETING) Greetings in Japan are very formal and ritualized. It is important to show the correct amount of respect and deference to someone based upon their status relative to your own. Wait to be introduced. It is considered impolite to introduce yourself, even in a large gathering. While foreigners are expected to shake hands, the traditional form of greeting is the bow. How far you bow depends upon your relationship to the other person as well as the situation. The deeper you bow, the more respect you show. A foreign visitor ('gaijin') may bow the head slightly, since no one expects foreigners to generally understand the subtle nuances of bowing.

Thailand (Dining & Food)

- A fork and spoon are the usual eating utensils. - However, noodles are often eaten with chopsticks. - The spoon is held in the right hand and the fork in the left. The fork is used to guide food on to the spoon. Sticky rice, a northern Thai delicacy, is often eaten with the fingers of the right hand. - Most meals are served as buffets or with serving platters in the centre of the table family- style. - You may begin eating as soon as you are served. - Leave a little food on your plate after you have eaten to show that you are full. Finishing everything indicates that you are still hungry. - Never leave rice on your plate as it is considered wasteful. The words for food and rice are the same. - Rice has an almost mystical significance in addition to its humdrum 'daily bread' function. - Never take the last bite from the serving bowl. Wait to be asked before taking a second helping. - Do not lick your fingers.

United Arab Emirates (Meeting and Greeting)

- A long but steady handshake is common. Ensure you only use your right hand. - Greetings between individuals of the same gender who know each other well are often warm and include hugs and embraces. - Arab men or women may decline to shake the hands of those from the other sex. This is a religious adherence practiced by many male and female Muslims. It is not personal and it should not be taken offensively. We suggest therefore, that men wait to see if a female offers her hand prior to offering his. - Likewise, if a female offers her hand and it is refused by a male, then we suggest the use of a gesture that is often used across the Muslim world as an alternative greeting whereby the right hand is placed flat over the heart, coupled with a brief nod of the head and a smile. - It is polite to greet the oldest or most senior members of the group first.

India (Communication Style)

- Avoid standing too close to others - Communication may not be straightforward - you may have to read between the lines and interpret gestures/signs - Differing relationships will determine how people interact with each other - watch what others do - Indian men may often pat each other on the back as a sign of friendship - Some gestures can be easily misinterpreted - a western hand wave from side to side can mean 'no' or 'go-away' in India - If an Indian says 'I will try' this can usually be interpreted as 'no' - On the whole, Indian people dislike to refuse something, or someone, outright - Use your right hand to touch, accept or give something - Do not beckon with your hand or snap your fingers - instead, with your arm extended, curl your fingers downward in a claw motion - Pointing, with either one or two fingers, is considered rude and used for inferiors only - Chins, thumbs and entire hands are used to point or direct someone's attention - When a head is jerked back, or moved in a figure of eight, this usually means 'yes'

Korea (Meeting & Greeting)

- Bowing is the traditional way to greet in South Korea - Handshakes often accompany the bow among men - Your left hand should support your right forearm when shaking hands - Korean women do not always shake hands and may slightly nod instead of a full bow - Always bow to individuals when departing

Singapore (Etiquette)

- Business Etiquette and Protocol - Business in Singapore is more formal than in many western countries. - There are strict rules of protocol that must be observed. - The group (company or department) is viewed as more important than the individual. - People observe a strict chain of command, which comes with expectations on both sides. - In order to keep others from losing face, much communication will be non-verbal and you must closely watch the facial expressions and body language of people you work with.

Thailand (Communication Style)

- Close friends may be tactile with one another and it's not unusual to see friends of the same sex often hold hands with one another. - Hand gestures may be used to enhance speech but it's important that the actions are calm and never aggressive. - Thais are gentle people and are likely to be offended and upset by aggressive speech or mannerisms. - 'Face' is important to Thais and it is important that you do nothing to affect someone's 'face' - if you need to say something of a critical nature then ensure that you do so in private - Thais are 'indirect' communicators and, as such are unlikely to directly say anything that may hurt or offend you. Instead, they may use vague responses or try to change the subject. Although this may appear to be indecisiveness on their part, efforts should be made to try and interpret their true feelings. Personal Space - When speaking to strangers Thais maintain a distance barrier of approximately one meter. This distance is lessened when speaking to close acquaintances. Although it is polite to retain eye contact during a conversation, it is expected that those in subordinate positions will bow their head during interactions with those of a revered rank in a demonstration of respect.

Korea (Communication Style)

- Communication can be complicated in South Korea due to an inherent dislike of saying 'no' as it is considered poor etiquette - Discussions can be prolonged due to the avoidance of declining or refusing - If disquiet is verbally or visibly displayed it is a sure sign that something is amiss - Good posture and positive body language is most beneficial in meetings; patience and politeness must be maintained throughout - Do not use excessive or overt body language - Use two hands, or support your right arm with your left, when passing on business cards, gifts, or when receiving an item - Respect, trust and satisfaction are displayed through a deeper bow

United Arab Emirates (Food)

- Cuisine in the UAE emanates from a rich history of changing civilisations. Since much of the Emirates lies on the coast of the Persian Gulf, fish and seafood is very much a mainstay of the UAE diet. - Muslims do not eat pork but all most other meats are used in the cuisine with a preference for lamb, goat and chicken. - A national speciality is stuffed camel which is an ancient Bedouin recipe modified over the years. It involves stuffing the interior of the animal with sheep, goats and chickens then, traditionally, cooked slowly over a pit of burning charcoal for up to 24 hours. - One of the most frequently eaten foods is Sharwarma which is spit roasted meat or mixed meats served with a variety of ingredients such as tabbouleh, tahini, hummus, pickles, cucumber or tomato. It can be served on a plate or in a Taboon bread (flatbread). - The cuisine is augmented with various spices and ingredients including: cloves, saffron, cinnamon, cardamom and nutmeg or almonds, pine nuts, dates and sultanas. Kabsa is a popular recipe that involves a number of rice dishes with meats and vegetables containing various spices and ingredients. - Harees is a beloved dish which is often served during Ramadan and the Eid festivals. The recipe involves cracked wheat and meat which is slow cooked and has the consistency of porridge. - Maqluba is another favourite dish which incorporates meat, rice and vegetables which is cooked in one pot and turned over after cooking so that the bottom layer now appears at the top. It is served with a simple salad and yogurt or another sauce such as Tahini.

Indonesia (Dining Etiquette)

- Dining etiquette is generally relaxed but depends on the setting and context. The more formal the occasion the more formal the behavior. Below are some basic dining etiquette tips. - Wait to be shown to your place - as a guest you will have a specific position. - Food is often taken from a shared dish in the middle. You will be served the food and it would not be considered rude if you helped yourself after that. - If food is served buffet style then the guest is generally asked to help themselves first. It is considered polite that the guest insist others go before him/her but this would never happen. - In formal situations, men are served before women. - Wait to be invited to eat before you start. - A fork and spoon are often the only utensils at the place setting. Depending on the situation some people may use their hands. - Eat or pass food with your right hand only.

Afghanistan (Dining)

- Dining in Afghanistan is a different experience and there are many differences in etiquette. - Always remove your shoes at the door if visiting a home. - If eating at someone's home, you will be seated on o the floor, usually on cushions. - Food is served on plastic or vinyl tablecloths spread on the floor. - Wait to be shown where to sit. - If you can, sit cross-legged. Otherwise sit as comfortably as you can. Do not site with legs outstretched and your feet facing people. - Food is generally served communally and everyone will share from the same dish. - Do not eat with the left hand. - Always pass and receive things using your right hand too. o Food is eaten with the hands. It will be a case of watch and learn. - Food is usually scooped up into a ball at the tip of the fingers, then eaten. - Leave food on your plate otherwise it will keep getting filled up again.

United Arab Emirates (Dining)

- Dining in the UAE is a very social affair and can be a means to doing business also. - It is considered polite to arrive fifteen minutes late. - Expect to eat with the right hand - the left hand is considered dirty. However, if you are left handed it is acceptable to eat with a utensil in the left hand. - Arabs may eat with their hand only and without utensils. Hand cleanliness is therefore very important. - Some families prefer to be seated on cushions on the floor. - It is not considered polite to decline the offer of more food. - If eating with utensils, place the cutlery facing up in the middle of the plate on finishing the meal. - If dining in a restaurant give more than the service charge - up to 10% is acceptable.

United Arab Emirates (Taboos)

- Do not discuss religion or criticise Islam. - Men should not stare at women or offer compliments - Do not go outside scantily dressed - Non-Muslims should not enter a mosque or touch a Qu'ran - Kissing or cuddling in public is strictly prohibited and such conduct can result in arrest

India (Taboos)

- Do not touch another person with your feet or shoes - Do not show anger - Do not use public displays of affection - Winking and whistling should be avoided - Ears are considered sacred - do not box or pull on another's ears

Thailand (Taboos)

- Do not use aggressive gestures or overly loud speech during conversation. - Do not sit with your feet pointing towards people. - If sleeping in a Thai home then avoid sleeping with your feet towards the family alter. - Do not give black gifts or yellow flowers as gifts. - Do not criticise the royal family. - Do not touch the top of someone's head as this is considered the most sacred part of the body. - Do not eat with your left hand.

Korean (Taboos)

- Do not wear your shoes in places of worship or peoples' homes - Do not put your feet on furniture - Do not eat or drink in public places while walking - Do not place your thumb between your middle and index finger while making a fist as this an obscene gesture - Do not use red ink. This is a symbol of death and is reserved only for writing the names of the deceased. It is considered unlucky and suggests you wish death to the recipient - Do not use the number four if at all possible - if giving gifts, do not give four of something. It is considered unlucky due to the similarity between the Korean word for death and the pronunciation of the word 'four' - Do not stand too close to people you are meeting for the first time - keep an arms length between you

Saudi Arabia (Taboos)

- Don't point at anyone or show the soles of your shoes. - Don't stare at women. - Don't point at people - keep your hand flat and gesture instead. - Don't wear tight clothing. - Don't say anything critical of the royal family, Islam or a person's family. - Don't show affection to the opposite sex in public. - Don't discuss sex in public.

India (Naming)

- Due to India's diverse cultural groups there is variance between regions on naming conventions - If in doubt, ask! This is likely to cause least offence - It is generally safe to address an elder as 'sir' or 'Ma'am' - Indians generally have a 'given' name - a name they use at work or for people they are not overly familiar with - Many people in India also have a 'pet' name - a nickname for family and close friends - Often you will find that an older female is refers to as 'auntie', even if unrelated - Younger males are often called 'little brother' - Family names, or surnames often denote the caste or area that an individual originates from -these can have a suffix that denotes the type of their ancestor's trade - Indians may also use a different religious name - Many Muslims do not have surnames. Instead, men add the father's name to their own name with the connector 'bin'. For example, Abdullah bin Ahmed is Abdullah the son of Ahmad - Sikhs all use the name Singh. It is either adopted as a surname or as a connector name to the surname

India (Food)

- Food in India is often served on a 'thali' - a tray or plate that can hold several dishes - 'Curry' is a European term to describe the spicy dishes found in India - In some parts of India meals are eaten with rice (chawal), in others, flat breads (roti) are preferred - Food is infused with spices such as cumin, turmeric, black pepper, cardamom, cloves and coriander - Most Hindus avoid eating beef

Indonesia (Meeting and Greeting)

- Greetings can be rather formal as they are meant to show respect. - A handshake is the most common greeting accompanied with the word "Selamat". - Many Indonesians may give a slight bow or place their hands on their heart after shaking your hand. - If you are being introduced to several people, always start with the eldest or most senior person first. - Titles are important in Indonesia as they signify status. If you know of any titles ensure you use them in conjunction with the name. - Some Indonesians only have one name, although it is becoming more common for people to have a first name and a surname, especially in the middle class. - Many Indonesians, especially those from Java, may have had an extremely long name, which was shortened into a sort of nickname for everyday conversation. - There are several ethnic groups in Indonesia. Most have adopted Indonesian names over the years, while some retain the naming conventions of their ethnicity.

Singapore (Meeting and Greeting)

- Greetings will follow a strict protocol often based on both the ethnic origin and age of the person. - Younger people or those who work in multi-national companies may have adopted the western concept of shaking hands with everyonebut this is not the case with older or more reserved Singaporeans. - Ethnic Chinese shake hands. Their grasp is rather light although the handshake itself can be rather prolonged. - Men and women may shake hands, although the woman must extend her hand first. Introductions are always done in order of age or status. - Between men, ethnic Malays shake hands. - Men and women do not traditionally shake hands, since Muslim men do not touch women in public. - Younger Malays may shake hands with foreign women, but it is more appropriate to use the 'salaam' (bowing the head) greeting. - This is also the greeting to be used when two women meet. - Ethnic Indians shake hands with members of the same sex. - When being introduced to someone of the opposite sex, nodding the head and smiling is usually sufficient. - As with the other groups, the elderly or the person with the most status is introduced first.

Afghanistan (Culture and Society)

- Islam is practised by the majority of Afghanis and governs much of their personal, political, economic and legal lives. Islam in Afghanistan. - Among certain obligations for Muslims are to pray five times a day - at dawn, noon, afternoon, sunset, and evening. - Friday is the Muslim holy day. Most shops and offices will be closed. Government offices and businesses may also close on Thursday, making the weekend Thursday and Friday. - During the holy month of Ramadan all Muslims must fast from dawn to dusk and are only permitted to work six hours per day. Fasting includes no eating, drinking, cigarette smoking, or gum chewing. - Foreigners are not required to fast; however, they must not eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum in public.

Taiwan (Meeting and Greeting)

- Handshakes are the most common form of greeting with foreigners. - Many Taiwanese look towards the ground as a sign of respect when greeting someone. - You need not follow their example as they understand that westerners tend to smile warmly when introduced. - Most greetings include the rhetorical question, "Have you eaten?" - The Chinese traditionally have 3 names. The surname, or family name is first and is followed by one or two personal names. - Chinese women do not change their names when they marry other Chinese, and the children's last name will generally follow that of the father. - Often their personal names have some poetic or otherwise significant meaning, so asking about the meaning is a good way to break the ice. - When you are first meeting a person, address the person by their academic, professional, or honorific title and their surname. - If those you are meeting want to move to a first name basis, they will advise you which name to use. - Some Chinese adopt more western names in business and may ask you to call them by that name.

India (Religion and Beliefs)

- Hindu 79.8%, Muslim 14.2%, Christian 2.3%, Sikh 1.7%, other and unspecified 2% (2011 est.) - India has the second largest Muslim population in the world - Religious practises are an integral part of daily life - From the Hindu culture arose three other major religions: Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism. - Hinduism has long established roots in India dating from 2000-1500 B.C.E - In Hinduism there is no single founder, specific theological system, or central religious structure Vedas and Upanishads are the holy books of Hinduism - Hinduism teaches meditation, yoga and ascetic practices to cultivate self-discipline and unity The cow is considered a sacred animal

Korea (Arts, Humanities & Pop culture)

- Historically, Chinese and Japanese influences were seen in South Korean art; aesthetic concepts and motifs were shared - Korean music and arts were linked to natural cycles and religion, giving rise to a folk culture in rural areas that are still considered popular - 'Gangnam Style' by Psy, a South Korean musician, achieved worldwide fame in 2012. The song refers to the Gangnam District of Seoul, a trendy, classy area, equated with London, Paris or Hollywood Foreign influences have produced a fast food and coffee culture in recent years, especially within Seoul - Language has altered with the introduction of some Western phrases such as 'eye shopping' (window shopping)

Saudi Arabia (Dining Etiquette)

- If the meal is on the floor, sit cross-legged or kneel on one knee. Keep your feet away from the cloth or plastic sheet. - Eat only with the right hand as the left is considered unclean. Ask for a fork if you want one. - Try a bit of everything that is served. - Honoured guests are often offered the most prized pieces such as a sheep's head so be prepared! - There is often more food than you can eat. Part of Saudi hospitality and generosity is to shower guests with abundance. - There is little conversation during meals so that diners may relish the food. - Wash hands before and after meals - all restaurants usually have washing up areas.

India (Meeting and Greeting)

- In India it's traditional to greet people using 'Namaste' - place both hands together and bow slightly. In urban areas this is often overlooked - Men will often also shake hands when meeting or leaving - Men should not attempt to shake hands with women - Some Indian women might shake hands with a western woman - Indian culture is based on a hierarchical system so elders and superior are greeted first - Religion, caste and social standing all effect greetings

Iran (Family Values)

- In Iran, the family is the basis of the social structure. - The concept of family is more private than in many other cultures. Female relatives must be protected from outside influences and are taken care of at all times. It is inappropriate to ask questions about an Iranian's wife or other female relatives. - Iranians take their responsibilities to their family quite seriously. - Families tend to be small, only 1 or 2 children, but the extended family is quite close. - The individual derives a social network and assistance in times of need from the family. - Elderly relatives are kept at home, not placed in a nursing home. - Loyalty to the family comes before other social relationship, even business. - Nepotism is considered a good thing, since it implies that employing people one knows and trusts is of primary importance.

Phillippines (Meeting and Greeting)

- Initial greetings are formal and follow a set protocol of greeting the eldest or most important person first. - A handshake, with a welcoming smile, is the standard greeting. - Close female friends may hug and kiss when they meet. - Use academic, professional, or honorific titles and the person's surname until you are invited to use their first name, or even more frequently, their nickname.

Iran (Meeting)

- Introductions are generally restricted to members of the same sex since men and women socialize separately. - Greetings tend to be affectionate. Men kiss other men and women kiss other women at social events. If they meet on the street, a handshake is the more common greeting - The most common greeting is "salaam alaykum" or more simply "salaam" (peace).

Saudi Arabia (Religion)

- Islam is practised by all Saudis and governs their personal, political, economic and legal lives. - Islam was born in Saudi Arabia and thus is visited by millions of Muslims every year. - The majority of Saudi Muslims are Sunni although a large number of Shia populate the Eastern coast and some smaller sects near the Yemen border. - Among certain obligations for Muslims are to pray five times a day - at dawn, noon, afternoon, sunset, and evening. - The exact time is listed in the local newspaper each day and also on the news on TV. - Friday is the Muslim holy day. Everything is closed. Many companies also close on Thursday, making the weekend Thursday and Friday. - During the holy month of Ramadan all Muslims must fast from dawn to dusk and are only permitted to work six hours per day. - Fasting includes no eating, drinking, cigarette smoking, or gum chewing. - Expatriates are not required to fast; however, they must not eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum in public. - It is possible to find other places of worship (mainly in Jeddah, Riyadh, etc) for Christians, Hindus, Sikhs, etc which serve expatriate communities.

Japan (Food)

- Japan has its own identity of traditional cuisine there are early influences from Korea, China and South East Asia. - White rice is a staple element of almost all meals and other ingredients include soy products, grilled or raw fish, thinly sliced stir-fried pork with bean sprouts and vegetables. - Miso soup is a popular dish made from miso paste (fermented soya beans and barley) and containing various accoutrements such as tofu and/or vegetables. - Sushi is also a popular Japanese meal which involves vinegared rice with seafood, raw fish or vegetables. - A typical Japanese meal usually involves a number of dishes on the table rather than a main course.

Japan (Language)

- Japanese is the official and primary language of Japan. Japanese has a lexically distinct pitch-accent system. Early Japanese is known largely on the basis of its state in the 8th century, when the three major works of Old Japanese were compiled. The earliest attestation of the Japanese language is in a Chinese document from 252 AD. Japanese is written with a combination of three scripts: hiragana, derived from the Chinese cursive script, katakana, derived as a shorthand from Chinese characters, and kanji, imported from China. The Latin alphabet, rōmaji, is also often used in modern Japanese, especially for company names and logos, advertising, and when inputting Japanese into a computer. The Hindu-Arabic numerals are generally used for numbers, but traditional Sino-Japanese numerals are also very common.

Korea (Food)

- Korean cuisine is based on rice, vegetables and meat - 'Kimchi' is the national dish and is eaten with most meals - Kimchi is made from a variety of vegetables which are then fermented and can be stored for long periods of time - Banchan are side dishes - these are often made in large numbers and are served along with the main dish - Food is used in ceremonies, especially at weddings, birthdays and to honour ancestors

Saudi Arabia (Arts, Humanities and Pop Culture)

- Literature and Classical Arabic poetry is highly valued. - Recitations of the Quran as well as poetry are common at weddings and to mark other important events. - The novel has slowly become popular among both men and women due to the influence of writers from Egypt and the Levant. - Saudi Arabia's state censors control all publications ensuring they are in line with sharia law. - Painting, folk art and sculpture are also popular in Saudi Arabia although paintings of people are considered practiced against Islamic teaching. - Traditional dancing with swords is a very common sight at celebrations and events. - The younger generation, influenced by the internet and popular global culture, are abandoning many of the traditional elements of Saudi culture. - Football (soccer) is by far the most popular way to spend an evening (among men) with the English Premier League being daily conversation

India (Dining and Food)

- Many strict Muslims, and Hindu women, do not drink alcohol - You may be invited to wash your hands before eating - Food is often eaten with the right hand - Guests are generally served in a hierarchical order; guest of honour, men and then children (Women may eat later) - Meals often end with a variety of sweets (paan), betel nut served with lime and wrapped in a betel leaf - A host will always serve their guests. Accept whatever you are offered but don't feel obliged to finish everything on your plate - If food is placed in communal dishes for you to help yourself, always use a spoon - Breads can be used to scoop up food - Reciprocate your invitation to dine with one of a comparable value - In a restaurant the host will generally pay the bill

Cambodia (Meeting and Greeting)

- Men shake hands with direct eye contact. - While shaking hands, use the appropriate greeting for the time of day: "buenos dias" (good day), "buenas tardes" (good afternoon), or "buenas noches" (good evening/night). - Women often grasp forearms rather than shaking hands. - Once a friendship has developed, greetings become warmer and a lot more hands on - men will embrace and pat each other on the shoulder (known as an "abrazo") and women kiss once on the right cheek. - Most Colombians have both a maternal and paternal surname and will use both. - The father's surname is listed first and is the one used in conversation. - Always refer to people by the appropriate honorific title and their surname.

Saudi Arabia (Meeting and Greeting)

- Men shake hands. Good friends may greet each other with a handshake and a then kiss on each cheek, sometimes three. - It is custom to hold the handshake for a lot longer than expected in Western culture. - Women generally hug and kiss close friends and within business will general shake hands or place hands on hearts. - Men and women would not greet each other in public if not from the same family. This does not apply to foreigners. - When Saudis greet each other they take their time and converse about general things.

Cambodia (Religion)

- Most Colombians would consider themselves to be Roman Catholics. - The Church has historically been a very important influence over personal affairs such as marriage and family life. - The parish church is often seen as the centre of a community, with the local priest representing divine authority and leadershi. - The church also has some influence in areas such as education, social welfare and union organization.

Saudi Arabia (Naming)

- People's names say a lot about their ancestry and where they are from. They are treasured in Saudi - Arabia with many people being able to recite the names of great grandfathers back many generations. - Everyone's names follow a similar pattern: first name - son/daughter of father's name - son/daughter of grandfather's name - family/tribal/dynastic name. - For example, a man might have the name, Muhammad Ibn Abdullah ibn Abdullah Al-Saud - So, he is Muhammad the son of Abdullah who was the son of Abdullah from the Al-Saud tribe. - A woman will have the same structure but bint is used instead of ibn - so Maryam bint Ali Al Ahmadi, is Maryam the daughter of Ali from the tribe of Al-Ahmadi.

Saudi Arabia (Communication Style)

- Saudi communication style is tempered by the need to save face, honour and follow Sunnah, the example of the Prophet Muhammad. - Being rude, causing offence or looking ungracious is worse than death in Saudi culture so they will always want to save face, whether their own or someone else's. - As a result, you will find a generally friendly, relaxed and indirect communication style. - Saudis tend to say 'yes' to everything and 'no' to very little especially when dealing with foreigners. - However, between themselves and those lower down in hierarchy they can be very blunt. - Emotional outbursts are very rare and point to serious issues if someone loses their temper. - It is common especially among good friends or colleagues to see very local arguments with lots of aggressive body language. This is seen as being passionate and involved in the topic at hand as all parties understand it is a charade. - Saudis love to flatter guests; this should be taken in the positive and friendly spirit intended and if possible, returned in kind. - It is common to be asked very personal questions about your family or lifestyle; this is not being nosey, rather inquisitive.

Singapore (Non-verbal Communication)

- Singaporeans are group dependent and rely on facial expression, tone of voice and posture to tell them what someone feels. - They often trust non-verbal messages more than the spoken word. - They tend to be subtle, indirect and implicit in their communications. - They hint at a point rather than making a direct statement, since that might cause the other person to lose face. - Rather than say 'no', they might say, 'I will try', or 'I'll see what I can do'. This allows the person making the request and the person turning it down to save face and maintain harmony in their relationship. - Silence is an important element of Singaporean communication. - Pausing before responding to a question indicates that they have given the question appropriate thought and considered their response carefully. - They do not understand western cultures ability to respond to a question hastily and think this indicates thoughtlessness and rude behavior.

United Arab Emirates (Communication Style)

- Small talk is common, indeed expected, and is often the prelude to business discussion. - Business is conducted on the basis of trust in the - UAE and will fall short if individuals try to hurry on to business matters to hastily. Take the time to get to know your counterpart by asking generic questions and showing an interest in them personally. Ask about their children, their school, sporting interests, trips abroad etc. - It may take a good few meetings and a restaurant visit before your counterpart will feel ready to move into any business transactions with you. - Genuine flattery will never go amiss - Be aware of hierarchal structures and show due respect to those in a higher position. Use titles where appropriate. - Never criticize Islam, the ruling classes or local traditions. - Never sit in a position that shows the soles of the feet. To do so is an insult as feet are considered dirty.

Korea (Religion and Beliefs)

- South Korea supports religious freedom - Confucianism, Buddhism and Christianity are the main formal religions - Many Koreans believe in the ancestral spirit and observe Confucian rituals - Confucianism is a political and social philosophy that pervades Korean culture

Iran (Iranian Politeness)

- Taarof is a system of politeness that includes both verbal and non-verbal communication. - Iranians protest compliments and attempt to appear vulnerable in public. - They will belittle their own accomplishments in an attempt to appear humble, although other Iranians understand that this is merely courtesy and do not take the words at face value. - In adherence to taarof, if you are ever offered something, like a tea or sweet, even if you want it, at first decline it until their insistence becomes greater.

Hong Kong (Dining Etiquette)

- Table manners are rather relaxed in Hong Kong, although there are certain rules of etiquette. When in doubt, watch what others do and emulate their behaviour. - Wait to be told where to sit. There is often a seating plan. - Wait for the host to tell you to start eating or for him to begin eating. - Food is served on a revolving tray. - You should try everything. - Never eat the last piece from the serving tray. - Burping is considered a compliment. - Chopsticks should be returned to the chopstick rest after every few bites and when you drink or stop to speak. - Always refuse a second serving at least once if you don't want to appear gluttonous. - Leave some food in your bowl when you have finished eating. - When you have finished eating, place your chopsticks in the chopstick rest or on the table. Do not place your chopsticks across the top of your bowl. - The host offers the first toast. You may reciprocate later in the meal.

Thailand (Food)

- Thai cuisine is much loved internationally and Thai restaurants are a feature of most large cities around the world. - In 2011, Thai dishes featured more than the dishes of any other country on an online CNN poll. - Thai cuisine is a complex fusion of sweet, sour, salty, spicy and bitter flavours which are balanced in a way that creates 'harmony'. - Rice plays such an important role in Thai cuisine that the word for 'rice' and 'food' is the same. - It is typically eaten at all meals and comes in the form of standard white rice, or, it is of the sticky, glutinous variety. It is usually eaten using a spoon and fork in dishes containing seafood, beef, pork, chicken or vegetables. - Thai cuisine varies depending on region, with differences primarily reflecting the food preferences of the region's neighbours. Many popular Thai dishes were introduced by the Chinese during the 15th century and European influences on Thai cuisine were gradually introduced from the 17th century onwards. Some of the most popular dishes include: Pad Thai - Pad Thai could well be considered a national Thai dish due to its popularity both in Thailand and abroad It consists of noodles, with fish sauce, tamarind and stir fried with other ingredients such as egg, shrimp, shallots, garlic, ginger, chilli, soy sauce, bean sprouts and peanuts. It is often sold as street food. Thai Green Curry - This is a fragrant and popular dish, which consists of coconut cream, green chillies, lemon grass and a key ingredient such as chicken or fish balls. Tom Yum Soup -The basic building blocks of Tom Yum (or Tom Yam) soup are lemon grass, lime juice, fish sauce, chillies and kaffir lime. Shrimp is then typically used as the key ingredient.

Thailand (Meeting and Greeting)

- The 'wai' is the traditional form of greeting, given by the person of lower status to the person of higher status. - The wai is the common form of greeting and adheres to strict rules of protocol. - Raising both hands, palms joined with the fingers pointing upwards as if in prayer, lightly touching the body somewhere between the chest and the forehead, is the standard form. - The wai is both a sign of respect as well as a greeting. Respect and courtesy are demonstrated by the height at which the hands are held and how low the head comes down to meet the thumbs of both hands. - The wai may be made while sitting, walking, or standing. - The person who is junior in age or status is the first one to offer the wai. - The senior person returns the wai, generally with their hands raised to somewhere around their chest. - If a junior person is standing and wants to wai a senior person who is seated, the junior person will stoop or bow their head while making the wai. - If there is a great social distance between two people, the wai will not be returned. - If invited to a Thai home, then allow your host and hostess to introduce you to the other guests. This enables other guests to understand your status relative to their own, and thus know who performs the wai and how low the head should be bowed. - In Thailand, even Ronald McDonald offers the wai gesture to greet...

India (Arts, Humanities and Pop Culture)

- The Indian culture has absorbed and amalgamated many different customs and ideas throughout its long history which has led to a rich tradition and folk culture - The most popular musical instrument in India is the sitar, an instrument similar to a guitar India is well regarded for its rugs, craft, metalwork, bronzes, stone carving, pottery, woodwork, and jewelry. - Traditional sports include camel racing and cock fighting - Folk dances are regional and often celebrated during festivals - 'Bollywood' is the informal name given to the popular Mumbai-based film industry - Bollywood has the largest output in the world in terms of number of films produced and, possibly, number of tickets sold.

Japan (Communication Style)

- The Japanese rely on facial expression, tone of voice and posture to tell them what someone feels. - They often trust non-verbal messages more than the spoken word as words can have several meanings. - The context in which something is said affects the meaning of the words. Therefore, it is imperative to understand the situation to fully appreciate the response. - Frowning while someone is speaking is interpreted as a sign of disagreement. - Most Japanese maintain an impassive expression when speaking. - Non-verbal communication is so vital that there is a book for 'gaijins' (foreigners) on how to interpret the signs! - It is considered disrespectful to stare into another person's eyes, particularly those of a person who is senior to you because of age or status. - In crowded situations the Japanese avoid eye contact to give themselves privacy. - Saving face is crucial in Japanese society. - The Japanese believe that turning down someone's request causes embarrassment and loss of face to the other person. - If the request cannot be agreed to, they will say, 'it's inconvenient' or 'it's under consideration'. - Face is a mark of personal dignity and means having high status with one's peers. - Therefore, they do not openly criticize, insult, or put anyone on-the-spot.

Malaysia (Language)

- The Malay language is an Austronesian language spoken not only by Malaysians but all Malay people who reside in the Malay Peninsula, southern Thailand, the Philippines, Singapore, central eastern Sumatra, the Riau islands, parts of the coast of Borneo, Cocos and Christmas Islands in Australia. It is also very similar to Indonesian, known locally as Bahasa Indonesia.In Malaysia, the language is officially known as Bahasa Malaysia, which translates as the "Malaysian language". The term, which was introduced by the National Language Act 1967, was predominant until the 1990s, when most academics and government officials reverted to "Bahasa Melayu," which is used in the Malay version of the Federal Constitution.

United Arab Emirates (Arts, Humanities & Pop Culture)

- The UAE has a long cultural history dating back to ancient times drawn from many changing civilisations. From the Bedouin tribes, who travelled across the deserts, to the centuries of pearl harvesters along the Arabian Gulf. - Today, the UAE takes a pride in the cultural past whilst supporting and encouraging contemporary arts, literature and theatre. Dubai is strewn with art galleries, museums and Theatre offering an insight into the past as well as the future of the arts. - In 1998 the City of Sharjah was voted the Cultural Capital of the Arab World and houses a museum recording local history in the Sharjah Fort which was once the residence of the Ruling Family. - The oasis city of Al Ain known as the 'Garden City' with its natural springs and palm groves is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. - The Al Ain National Museum exhibits archaeological finds from around the city including stone-age and bronze-age remains. - Contemporary literature, poetry and performing arts are taking their place in popularity particularly that of 'spoken poetry' which has its roots in historical tradition. - Nabati poetry which has long been known as the 'people's poetry' is still very much a part of modern literature and has over centuries recorded the lives and habits of changing civilisations.

Japan (Arts, Humanities & Pop Culture)

- The arts are an important part of Japanese life. A number of schools and colleges offer students training and preparation for careers in performance and art. - The Ministry of Education is protective of Japan's great works of art which include paintings, sculptures and architecture. Traditional arts and crafts such as the tea ceremony, flower arranging and dance that express Japan's cultural heritage are greatly valued and designated as 'living national treasures'. - Japan's history has been defined too by its literature and poetry. The 'Tale of the Genji' for instance, is a great classic work written by a noblewoman, Murasaki Shikibu at the beginning of the 11th Century. - Comic books and animation are a popular form of art which has reached an international audience. - Japanese Martial Arts are also a traditional and respected performing art including Jujutsu (a method of close combat) and Kendo (swordsmanship using bamboo swords and protective armour.)

Philippines (Family Values)

- The family is the centre of the social structure and includes the nuclear family, aunts, uncles, grandparents, cousins and honorary relations such as godparents, sponsors, and close family friends. - People get strength and stability from their family. As such, many children have several godparents. - Concern for the extended family is seen in the patronage provided to family members when they seek employment. - It is common for members of the same family to work for the same company. - In fact, many collective bargaining agreements state that preferential hiring will be given to family members.

United Arab Emirates (Naming)

- The first name is the personal name followed by ibn which means son of and the name of the father, then followed again by ibn meaning the name of the father of his father. This is then followed by the family name. - Where a daughter is concerned the ibn becomes bint. Her first name followed by bint (daughter of) father's name, then ibn to indicate the grandfather's name followed by the family name. - When a couple marry, the wife retains her family name and children will take the name of the father. In modern times ibn and bint are often only used in official circumstances. Additionally, addresses are likely to only included son or daughter of the father as opposed to both father and grandfather, e.g. the first prime minister of the UAE was addressed as Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum

Hong Kong (Meeting and Greeting)

- The handshake is commonly used when greeting westerners. - The Hong Kong Chinese handshake is rather light. - During the greeting, many Hong Kong Chinese lower their eyes as a sign of respect. - There is no need for you to emulate this gesture, although prolonged eye contact should be avoided during the greeting. - If you are at a large function, you may introduce yourself to other guests. - At smaller functions, it is polite to wait for your host or hostess to introduce you. - The Chinese traditionally have 3 names: The surname, or family name is first and is followed by two personal names. The first personal name is their father's name and the second personal name is their own name. - Address the person by an honorific title and their surname. - If they want to move to a first name basis, they will advise you which name to use. - Some Chinese adopt more western names and may ask you to call them by that name.

Iran (Etiquettte)

- The most common greeting is "salaam alaykum" or more simply "salaam" which means "peace". - Introductions are generally restricted to members of the same sex since men and women socialize separately. - When Iranians greet each other they take their time and converse about general things. - Try to never be late, punctuality is appreciated. - Show respect for elders by greeting them first. - Iranians prefer to do business with those they know and respect, therefore they expect to spend time cultivating a personal relationship before business is conducted. - Iranians are deliberate negotiators and can drive a hard bargain. - Companies are hierarchical. Decisions are made at the top of the company, either by one person or a small council. - Business attire is formal and conservative. - When presenting business cards, it is recommended to have one side of your card translated into Farsi, and to present your card so the Farsi side faces the recipient.

Vietnam (Confucianism)

- The teachings of Confucius influence the Vietnamese describe the position of the individual in Vietnamese society. - Confucianism is a system of behaviours and ethics that stress the obligations of people towards one another based upon their relationship. The basic tenets are based upon five different relationships: - Ruler and subject - Husband and wife - Parents and children - Brothers and sisters - Friend and friend Confucianism stresses duty, loyalty, honour, filial piety, respect for age and seniority, and sincerity.

United Arb Emirates (Religion)

- UAE Emiratis are predominantly Sunni Muslims and all social and political matters are driven by Sharia (Islamic) law. - However, the UAE is tolerant of other religions and accords religious freedom to the expatriate population. These religions primarily include Hinduism, Christianity, Sikhism and Buddhism. - Although Muslims can proselytise to those of other faiths, it is forbidden for those of other faiths to proselytise to Muslims. Muslims are not allowed to convert out of Islam and there are repercussions for those who actively try and encourage Muslims to convert to a different religion. As an example, here have been cases of individuals who have been held and then deported out of the UAE for distributing bibles. Although bibles are not in themselves illegal, giving them out to Muslims is.

Philippines (Dining Etiquette)

- Wait to be asked several times before moving into the dining room or helping yourself to food. - Wait to be told where to sit. There may be a seating plan. - Do not start eating until the host invites you to do so. - Meals are often served family- style or are buffets where you serve yourself. - A fork and spoon are the typical eating utensils. - Hold the fork in the left hand and use it to guide food to the spoon in your right hand. - Whether you should leave some food on your plate or finish everything is a matter of personal preference rather than culture-driven.

Cambodia (Dining Etiquette)

- Wait to be seated by the host. - Hands should be kept visible when eating. - Do not rest elbows on the table. - The host will say "buen provecho" (enjoy or have a good meal) as an invitation to start eating. - It is polite to try everything you are given. - Unusually all food is eaten with utensils - even fruit is cut into pieces with a knife and fork. - It is considered polite to leave a small amount of food on your plate when you have finished eating. - Do not use a toothpick at the table.

Vietnam (Dining Etiquette)

- Wait to be shown where to sit. - The oldest person should sit first. - Pass dishes with both hands. - The most common utensils are chopsticks and a flat spoon. - Chopsticks should be placed on the table or a chopstick rest after every few mouthfuls or when breaking to drink or speak. - People hold bowls close to their faces. - Hold the spoon in your left hand while eating soup. - Meals are typically served family-style. - Try to finish everything on your plate. - When you are finished eating, rest your chopsticks on top of your rice bowl. - Cover your mouth when using a toothpick.

Afghanistan (Meeting and Greeting )

- When meeting someone the handshake is the most common form on greeting. You will also see people place their hands over their hearts and nod slightly. - One should always enquire about things like a person's health, business, family, etc. - Women and men will never shake hands let alone speak directly to one another. - Eye contact should also be avoided between men and women. Between men eye contact is acceptable as long as it is not prolonged - it is best to only occasionally look someone in the eyes.

Hong Kong (Food)

As a culinary capital of Asia, Hong Kong boasts various delicacies in the local or from overseas. The city is influenced by western countries and some of the foods there combine the flavors of Chinese cuisine and western cuisine.

Saudi Arabia (Language)

Arabic is spoken by almost 200 million people in more than 22 countries. It is the language of the Qur'an, the Holy Book of Islam, and of Arab poetry and literature. While spoken Arabic varies from country to country, classical Arabic has remained unchanged for centuries. In Saudi, there are differences between the dialects spoken in urban areas and those spoken in rural areas as well as between those in the West, East and South.

United Arab Emirates (Language)

Arabic is the official language of the UAE although English is widely spoken and understood. Since the UAE is home to a large expatriate community, a number of other languages are widely spoken which primarily include: Persian, Hindi, Urdu, Bengali and Chinese.

China (Art)

Architecture: For over two thousand years, Chinese architecture has been inextricably linked with Chinese culture. There has been influence of Buddhist style in Chinese architecture and sculpture from the Sui and Tang dynasties and in its classical form it has been inspired by Indian art of the Gupta period. Chinese architecture emphasizes on symmetry in everything from palaces to farmhouses. Ceramics: In early imperial China, porcelain was introduced and was developed to the point that in English the word china has become synonymous with high-quality porcelain. Chinese porcelain is mostly made using porcelain stone , china clay or a mixture of the both. It's green-fired or once-fired , which means that the body and the glaze are fired together. Paintings: In imperial times, painting were the most highly treasured arts in court circles and were produced almost solely by amateurs, aristocrats and scholar-officials, who hadthe leisure time needed to perfect the technique and sensibility necessary for great brushwork. Calligraphy: Calligraphy, one of the highest and purest forms of painting is extensively practiced and admired in the East-Asian civilization that uses Chinese characters. The use of ink and wash paintings and brush writing is its special feature. Dance: The Dragon Dance and the Lion Dance are the two dance forms of Chinese culture. In Lion dance performers mimic a lion's movements in a lion costume. It originated in China nearly a thousand years ago. Traditionally the lion is regarded as a guardian creature and featured in Buddhist lore. The dance is traditionally accompanied by gongs, drums and firecrackers, representing the origin of good luck. Like the Lion dance, the Dragon dance is usually seen in festive celebrations. Chinese people often use the term 'Descendants of the Dragon' as a sign of ethnic identity. Musical accompanies in the form of musicians with traditional drums, cymbals and gongs. The Dragon dance emphasizes the Chinese New Year celebrations held worldwide in Chinatowns around the world. Music: Chinese music dates back to the dawn of Chinese civilization. Documents and artifacts give evidence of a well-developed musical culture as early as the Zhou Dynasty in 1122- 256 BC. Early Chinese music was influenced by the Book of Songs , Confucius and the Chinese poet and statesman Qu Yuan . The music was based on percussion instruments, which later gave away to string and reed instruments. Chinese Opera: The Chinese Opera is a popular form of drama which has crossed boundaries to reach the international audience. Chinese Opera, especially the Beijing opera, has been extremely popular for centuries. Literature: China, with a very old and rich tradition in literature and the dramatic and visual arts, is the only country in the world with a literature written for more than 3,000 consecutive years. Early writings were derived from philosophical or religious essays such as the works of Confucius and Lao-tzu. Festivals: The Chinese people are well-known for their traditional festivals. The Double Ninth Festival falls on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month. According to Chinese tradition, 'nine' is a number belonging to the positive principle 'yang. ' Thus the day is also known as Chung Yang or Double Yang Festival. The Dragon Boat ('Tuen Ng') Festival is celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month. It combines a traditional celebration with an exciting, fast-paced sporting event in a boat. Alongside Traditional cultures,0 China is also famous for the modern cultures it nurtured. Animation, Cinema , Manhua ( comic strips and comic books ) and Photography have all developed and flourished in the last century.

Iran (Food)

As one might expect from Iran's geographic situation, its food strikes a medium between Greek and Indian preparations. It is more varied than Greek food, and less spicy and subtler than Indian food with a greater use of fresh ingredients. Iranians have a healthy diet centered on fresh fruits, greens and vegetables. Meat (usually lamb, goat, or chicken) is used as a condiment rather than as the centerpiece of a meal. Rice and fresh unleavened or semileavened whole-grain bread are staple starches. The primary beverage is black tea. The principal dietary taboo is the Islamic prohibition against pork. Ritual foods fall into two categories—foods that are eaten in celebration, and foods that are prepared and consumed as a charitable religious act. A few foods are traditional for the New Year's celebration. Fish is widely consumed as the first meal of the New Year, along with a polow made with greens. One food appears on the ritual New Year's table, but is rarely eaten. This is a kind of sweet pudding made of ground sprouted wheat called samanou. During the Islamic month of fasting, Ramadan, no food or drink is consumed from sunrise to sunset.

Cambodia (Food)

Average meals typically consists of more than one dish and ideally contrasts flavours, textures and temperatures within the meal using plenty of herbs, leaves, pickled vegetables, dipping sauces, edible flowers and other garnishes and condiments. Rice is the staple food in Cambodia, and it is part of every meal, both as an accompaniment and used as an ingredient for many dishes. According to the International Rice Research Institute, there are 2,000 rice varieties indigenous to Cambodia that were developed over centuries by Cambodian rice farmers. Rice is eaten throughout the day in the form of street-side snacks, such as deep-fried rice cakes with chives and spinach, for breakfast, as in Cambodia's famous rice noodle soup kuyteav or rice porridge, and in many desserts. Plain white rice is served with nearly every family meal, typically served with grilled freshwater fish, a samlor or soup, and an assortment of seasonal herbs, salad leaves and vegetables.

Philippine (Celebrations)

Christmas is one of the most loved celebration by Filipinos. Families and relatives gather on the 24th of December, to celebrate food prepared for "Noche Buena," a Spanish term which means "midnight meal" to greet Christmas Day. New Year is another celebration that gathers the Filipino families. Wearing dotted clothes and preparing round fruits on the table, which symbolize prosperity, is one of the many customs of the Filipinos.

China (Religion, Philosophy and Politics)

Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism have left a collective and lasting impression on Chinese culture and tradition. Confucianism propagated "Ren" (Love) and "Li" (rituals), signifying respect for society and social hierarchy. Taoism advocated the controversial philosophy of inaction. Buddhism emphasized on the need to attain self- emancipation through good deeds.

Singapore (Law/Order)

Culture in Singapore is largely defined by peace, justice, and social and religious harmony. The saying that Singapore is a "fine" city, not only refers to its cleanliness or its quality of life. In fact, to ensure safety and order in the state, the government has prohibited various things. If you don't want to pay a heavy fine or even spend time in jail, you should avoid the following: - chewing gum - spitting - littering - jay walking - dancing on counters or tables at a bar - smoking indoors - drinking and driving - public drunkenness - taking drugs Keep in mind that the last point is particularly serious. It is enough to carry even a small amount of specific drugs to face the death penalty. You can learn more on limitation of civil freedoms in Singapore from our guide.

China (Etiquette)

Deference and obedience to elders is considered extremely important. There is a hierarchy that places older people above younger and men above women; this is reflected in social interaction. Chinese people are nonconfrontational. Saving face is of primary importance; appearing to be in the right or attempting to please someone is more important than honesty. It is considered rude to refuse a request even if one is unable to fulfill it. The fear of losing face is a concern that governs social interactions both large and insignificant; failure to perform a duty brings shame not just on the individual, but on the family and community as well. Individuality is often subsumed in the group identity. There is little privacy in the home or family, and housing shortages and cramped living quarters often exaggerate this situation. People touch often, and same-sex hand holding is common. However, physical contact between men and women in public is limited. Smiling is not necessarily a sign of happiness; it can be a display of worry or embarrassment. Visiting is an important part of social life. Guests often drop in unannounced and are invited to join the family for a meal. It is customary to bring a small gift when visiting.

Japan (Dining Etiquette)

Dining & Food: On the rare occasion you are invited to a Japanese house: - Remove your shoes before entering and put on the slippers left at the doorway. - Leave your shoes pointing away from the doorway you are about to walk through. - Arrive on time or no more than 5 minutes late if invited for dinner. - If invited to a large social gathering, arriving a little bit later than the invitation is acceptable, although punctuality is always appreciated. - Unless you have been told the event is casual, dress as if you were going into the office. - If you use the toilet, put on the available toilet slippers and remove them when you are finished. - Do not wear them back out of the bathroom.

HongKong (Language)

English and Chinese are Hong Kong's two official languages. The Cantonese dialect is the most commonly spoken language in the territory, though English is the language of the business and service industries; hotel employees, many urban Hong Kong residents, most young people and shop and service personnel understand and speak it to some degree. Other Chinese dialects. such as Mandarin (Putonghua), Shanghainese, and Chiu-Chow can be heard as well. Major hotels have employees with knowledge of other languages, such as French, German, Japanese and Mandarin. Translation services in many languages are also available from major hotels' business centres.

Philippines (Language)

Filipino (formerly Pilipino) is based on Tagalog and is the official language of the Philippines. In spite of being the national language, only about 55 percent of Filipinos speak the language. In addition to Filipino are about 111 distinct indigenous languages and dialects, of which only about 10 are important regionally. English is generally used for educational, governmental and commercial purposes and is widely understood since it is the medium of instruction in schools. The Philippines are the third largest group of English speaking people in the world, after the United States and the United Kingdom. Since English is widely spoken in the Philippines, it is common to hear Filipinos use a mixture English and Filipino words or phrases, known as "Taglish" (a mixture of English and Tagalog), in their everyday conversations. A steadily dwindling minority still speak Spanish, which had at one time been an official language.

Philippine (Arts, Music & Literature)

Filipinos are very fond of music. They use various materials to create sound. They love performing dances (Tiniking and Carinosa) and group singing during festive celebrations. Settlers from Spain introduced to them a variety of musical instruments like the ukulele, trumpet, drums and violin. Most of their music is contemporary and they have also learned to write their own songs based on real life events. People are also fond of folklore, which was influenced by the early church and Spanish literature. Jose Rizal, the country's national hero, is famous for his literature and novels inspired from the independence story of the country

Malaysia (Meeting and Greeting)

Greetings in a social context will depend upon the ethnicity of the person you are meeting. In general, most Malays are aware of Western ways so the handshake is normal. There may be slight differences though and a few things to bear in mind include: Malay women may not shake hands with men. Women can of course shake hands with women. Men may also not shake hands with women and may bow instead while placing their hand on their heart.• The Chinese handshake is light and may be rather prolonged. Men and women may shake hands, although the woman must extend her hand first. Many older Chinese lower their eyes during the greeting as a sign of respect. Indians shake hands with members of the same sex. When being introduced to someone of the opposite sex, nodding the head and smiling is usually sufficient. Among all cultures, there is a general tendency to introduce: - the most important person to the lower ranking person. - the older person to the younger person. - women to men.

Korea (Naming)

In South Korea names operate in the reverse of Western cultures; Family name (surname), a second family name shared by all of that generation, and finally their given name. It is considered very impolite to address a Korean with his or her given name. They should be addressed using their professional titles, or Mr, Mrs Etc, until permission is given otherwise.

Indonesia (Religion)

Indonesia has the largest Muslim population of any nation, and in 1990 the population was reported to be 87 percent Muslim. There is a well-educated and influential Christian minority (about 9.6 percent of the population in 1990), with about twice as many Protestants as Catholics. The Balinese still follow a form of Hinduism. Mystical cults are well established among the Javanese elite and middle class, and members of many ethnic groups still follow traditional belief systems. Officially the government recognizes religion ( agama ) to include Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, and Buddhism, while other belief systems are called just that, beliefs ( kepercayaan ). Those who hold beliefs are subject to conversion; followers of religion are not. Belief in ancestral spirits, spirits of diverse sorts of places, and powerful relics are found among both peasants and educated people and among many followers of the world religions; witchcraft and sorcery also have their believers and practitioners. The colonial regime had an uneasy relationship with Islam, as has the Indonesian government. The first of the Five Principles extols God ( Tuhan ), but not Allah by name. Dissidents have wanted to make Indonesia a Muslim state, but they have not prevailed.

Indonesia (Food)

Indonesian Food is perhaps a bit more coherent, because of the natural climate and agricultural factors that limit the local diet. Rice is by far the main food staple in the country. Almost everywhere in Indonesia you will find rice as the main dish, usually served highly spiced and with meat, fish, and vegetable side dishes. Rice is a huge part of Indonesian life as it is not only their main food source but also one of the country's main economic factors. However, even here the influence of other cultures is clear: The famous Rice Table, a form of buffet very popular in Indonesia and often associated with Indonesian cooking, is actually a European invention, brought to the country by the Dutch in the 17th Century

Iran (Arts and Literature)

Iran has a great art heritage visible in architecture, paintings, calligraphy and poetry. This heritage was translated to several languages and influenced many cultures. Contemporary literature was influenced by classical Persian poetry although it reflects the particularities of modern day Iran. Houshang Moradi-Kermani, is one of the most famous modern Iranian writers and is considered the most translated modern Iranian author. Iranian films are celebrated and internationally acclaimed. The films have won 300 international awards in the past 10 years. The best known Persian directors are Abbas Kiarostami, Majid Majidi, and Asghar Farhadi. Iran has a long history of fine silk and wool rug weaving, that is why Persian rugs are internationally known as the most beautiful across the world. Iran produces more rugs and carpets than all other countries put together.

Iran (Religion)

Islam is practised by the majority of Iranians and governs their personal, political, economic and legal lives. Islam emanated from what is today Saudi Arabia. The Prophet Muhammad is seen as the last of God's emissaries (following in the footsteps of Jesus, Moses, Abraham, etc) to bring revelation to mankind. He was distinguished with bringing a message for the whole of mankind, rather than just to a certain peoples. As Moses brought the Torah and Jesus the Bible, Muhammad brought the last book, the Quran. The Quran and the actions of the Prophet (the Sunnah) are used as the basis for all guidance in the religion.

Malaysia (Food)

Malay food is strong, spicy and aromatic, combining the rich tastes of the many herbs and spices commonly found in Southeast Asia. It is one of three major cuisines in Malaysia, and together with Chinese and Indian food, continually delight visitors to the country with its incredible variety and flavors. Malaysian culture is heavily influenced by that of India, Indonesia, China and the Muslim religion. As such, it can be debated that the country does not have an identity of its own. You also might say that it's identity is this unique fusion and blend of all these different cultures. What can not be argued is that this convergence of ideologies leads to a very segmented population: especially in Kuala Lumpur.

Malaysia (Naming)

Many Malays do not have surnames. Instead, men add their father's name to their own name with the term "bin" (meaning 'son of'). So Rosli bin Suleiman, would be Rosli the son of Suleiman. • Women use the term "binti", so Aysha bint Suleiman is Aysha the daughter of Suleiman.

Afghanistan (Language)

Pashtu and Dari (Afghan Persian/Farsi) are the official languages of Afghanistan. Pashtu (also written Pushtu) was declared the National Language of the country during the beginning of Zahir Shah's reign, however, Dari has always been used for business and government transactions. Both belong to the Indo-European group of languages. According to estimates, approximately 35% of the Afghan population speaks Pashtu, and about 50% speaks Dari. Turkic languages (Uzbek and Turkmen) are spoken by about 11% of the population. There are also numerous other languages spoken in the country (Baluchi, Pashai, Nuristani, etc.), and bilingualism is very common.

China (Food)

Rice is the dietary staple in most of the country. In the north and the west, where the climate is too dry to grow rice, wheat is the staple grain. Here, breakfast usually consists of noodles or wheat bread. In the south, many people start the day with rice porridge, or congee, served with shrimp, vegetables, and pickles. Lunch is similar to breakfast. The evening meal is the day's largest. Every meal includes soup, which is served as the last course. People cook in a wok, a metal pan with a curved bottom; this style of cooking requires little oil and a short cooking time. Steaming in bamboo baskets lined with cabbage leaves is another cooking method. Meat is expensive and is served sparingly. Cooking reflects the country's history of famines caused by factors such as natural disasters and war. The Chinese eat parts and species of animals that many other cultures do not, including fish heads and eyeballs, birds' feet and saliva, and dog and cat meat. Tea is the most common beverage. The Han drink it unsweetened and black, Mongolians have it with milk, and Tibetans serve it with yak butter. The Chinese are fond of sugary soft drinks, both American brands and locally produced ones. Beer is a common beverage, and there are many local breweries.

Hong Kong (Religion)

Taoism, Buddhism, Christianism, Islam and other religious beliefs exit in the region. Especially, Buddhism and Taoist temples are very common there. The Taoist concept of Fung Shui, or 'Wind and Water', is believed by many locals. It is a 3,000 years old system of geomantic divination teaching humans how to achieve harmony with the forces of nature and change, thereby gaining well-being and prosperity.

Japan (Religion)

Shinto and Buddhism are Japan's two major religions. Shinto is as old as the Japanese culture, while Buddhism was imported from the mainland in the 6th century. Since then, the two religions have been co-existing relatively harmoniously and have even complemented each other to a certain degree. Most Japanese consider themselves Buddhist, Shintoist or both. Religion does not play a big role in the everyday life of most Japanese people today. The average person typically follows the religious rituals at ceremonies like birth, weddings and funerals, may visit a shrine or temple on New Year and participates at local festivals (matsuri), most of which have a religious background.

Singapore (Language)

Singapore has attempted to promote a national identity in its land of immigrants since its independence in 1965. As part of this effort, Singapore has four national languages: Mandarin, Malay, Tamil and English. For business and politics, English is the language of choice.

China (Ceremonial Occasions)

Special occasions and large family gatherings often entail big, elaborate meals. In the north, dumplings called jiaozi are served at the Spring Festival and other special occasions. For the Moon Festival in midautumn, "moon cakes" are served, baked pastries filled with ground sesame and lotus seeds or dates. Banquets originating in the imperial tradition are ceremonial meals common to important state gatherings and business occasions. They usually are held at restaurants and consist of ten or more courses. Rice is not served, as it is considered too cheap and commonplace for such an event.

China (Identification)

The Chinese refer to their country as the Middle Kingdom, an indication of how central they have felt themselves to be throughout history. There are cultural and linguistic variations in different regions, but for such a large country the culture is relatively uniform. However, fifty-five minority groups inhabit the more remote regions of the country and have their own unique cultures, languages, and customs.

Philippines (Food)

The Filipinos are a gregarious and sociable people who love to party, and the food is often at the center of their many celebrations. Filipino food combines Eastern and Western ideas and is strongly influenced by Chinese, Spanish and American traditions. Original Fusion Food? While it defies any singular characterization, Filipino food is sometimes identified by the way it fuses Asian and European ingredients. For example, in the robust and popular Pork Menudo dish, some recipes have it blending tomato sauce with soy sauce, while others have it combining cheese and bay leaf with soy sauce. Still, as with all other Southeast Asian cuisines, we often find local Southeast Asian ingredients like chilies, coconuts, shrimp paste, lemongrass and fish sauce or patis present in Filipino cooking. Chinese traders, who have been going to the Philippines since the 11th century, brought with them not only their silks and ceramics from the Middle Kingdom for purposes of commerce but also Chinese cooking traditions like stir-frying and steaming. The Filipino pancit has its roots in noodle soup dishes from China, the lumpia finds its origins in Chinese spring rolls, while the siaopao and siaomai are similar to the popular Chinese dim sum dishes of steamed buns and dumplings. Colonization Later, in the 16th century when the Spanish colonized the Philippines and introduced Catholicism to the masses, they also exposed Filipino cuisine to new flavors, including olive oil, paprika, ​saffron, cheese, ham and cured sausages. The Spanish paella or fried rice, for example, has come to be a festive dish in the Philippines and has been locally adapted to include many of the abundant seafood such as shrimps, crabs, squid and fish, with which the Philippines is blessed. In 1889, the Philippines became a colony of the United States, which bequeathed it the widespread use of the English language as well as convenience cooking -- pressure cooking, freezing, pre-cooking, sandwiches, salads, hamburgers and fried chicken, which have all come to form part of the arsenal of the Filipino cook. Island Food The Philippines is made up of 7,107 islands; with a few more appearing when the tide is low. With so much water everywhere, it is no wonder that seafood is the main source of protein in the Filipino diet. The country is divided into seven major regions and features a wide variety of regional fare. It's not easy to put one's finger on what might constitute a Filipino "national" dish, but several that could lay claim to that distinction include the Adobo which is chicken and pork stewed in vinegar and soy sauce, garlic, peppercorns and bay leaf, the Bistek or beef and onion rings in soy sauce and the lumpia or spring rolls. One feature that is unique to the Filipino dining is the sawsawan, dipping sauces that are served with every meal and which can turn simply prepared roasted or steamed meals into bursts of flavors that follow one's own taste buds. Common condiments like fish sauce, dark soy sauce, native vinegar and cream-style shrimp paste are mixed with herbs including ginger, garlic, chili peppers, peppercorns, onions, tomatoes, cilantro and kalamansi lime to bring the flavors up a few notches. Just as in the other Southeast Asian countries, a typical Filipino meal often consists of white rice eaten with a variety of dishes, all of which taste better when consumed together with family and friends.

Taiwan (Dining Etiquette)

The Taiwanese prefer to entertain in public places rather than in their home, especially when entertaining foreigners. If you are invited to a Taiwanese home, it will happen once you have developed a relationship and should be considered a great honour.

Thailand (Language)

The Thai language is comprised of 44 consonants, 32 vowels and five tones in Thai pronunciation, along with a script that has Indian origins. The Thai language, belonging to the 'Tai' family, is the standard spoken language in Thailand and is used for governmental and administrative purposes across the country. Regional dialects are particularly distinct depending on whether the speaker is from the North or South of Thailand. Other languages spoken in Thailand are Chinese, Lao, Malay and Mon-Khmer. The use of English is becoming more prevalent in government and commerce. It is also being taught as a second language in secondary school and universities, which enables the English-speaking visitor in Thailand to have little trouble conversing.

Singapore (Food)

The Three Pillars: Noodles, Rice, and Seafood Wonton mee. Most Asian cultures are rice- or noodle-focused, but in Singapore they're both. Noodles are typically served stir fried or in soup. The Malay dishes (such as these) are usually based on a foundation of spicy, fishy sambal, sour herbs, and/or complex citrus. Their heat typically comes from a wallop of chili paste stirred into broth, or a small dish of even hotter sauce on the side. Chinese-inspired noodles, which were the bulk I came across, are a little less complex but no less fantastic. The smoky kiss of the wok really shines in stir-fried hokkien mee; a superb dish of wonton mee was all about the hoisin-sweet and pickle-sour sauce touched up with just a dab of chile paste and some ridiculous roast pork. Noodle broths are typically pork-, chicken- or shrimp-based. Coconutty laksa and mucilaginous lor mee excepted, they tend towards the thin side, but they deliver powerful flavors. The soups that accompanied my noodles never tasted random or incidental; cooks intelligently combine them with specific noodles, proteins, and vegetables to make a complete dish.

Thailand (Arts, Humanities & Culture)

The arts are supported by both private and public groups. There are colleges of dance, music and drama in Thailand and a very popular national theatre. There are also organisations which support the work of Thai artisans Fictional writing has changed greatly over the years, and modern fiction is generally built around plots which detail the lives of ordinary people; particularly depicting the struggles of those in the poorer classes Traditional folk dance have influenced a love of classical dance in Thailand and national festivals are fairly popular events.

Thailand (Naming)

The first name is usually preceded by the word 'Khun' (pronounced 'Koon') which is used as a blanket term to refer to Miss, Mrs or Mr - for example, Khun Mary or Khun Simon. People of importance, such as teachers, professors or monks, the first name should be preceeded with 'Ajarn'. Surnames are reserved for very formal occasions or written documentation. It is not uncommon for Thais to assign nicknames to each other.

Philippine (Religion)

The majority of Filipino people practice the Christian religion. Spain highly influenced the people to the extent that the Philippines became one of the two predominantly Christian nations in the Asia Pacific, the other being East Timor. According to Wikipedia, Christianity is the religion of about 80% of the Philippine population (mostly Catholics) while Islam is the religion of 11%, and other religions and beliefs comprise the 9% of the rest of the population.

Japan (Music)

The music of Japan includes a wide array of performers in distinct styles both traditional and modern. The word for music in Japanese is 音楽 (ongaku), combining the kanji 音 "on" (sound) with the kanji 楽 "gaku" (enjoyment). Japan is the second largest music market in the world, behind the United States, and the largest in Asia, and most of the market is dominated by Japanese artists. Local music often appears at karaoke venues, which is on lease from the record labels. Traditional Japanese music is quite different from Western Music and is based on the intervals of human breathing rather than mathematical timing. In 1873, a British traveler claimed that Japanese music, "exasperate(s) beyond all endurance the European breast."

Cambodia (Language)

The official language of Colombia is Spanish and spoken by around 43 million people. In addition there are approximately 500,000 speakers of American Indian languages.

Taiwan (Language)

The official language of Taiwan is Mandarin Chinese, but because many Taiwanese are of southern Fujianese descent, Min-nan (the Southern Min dialect, or Holo) is also widely spoken. The smaller groups of Hakka people and aborigines have also preserved their own languages. Many elderly people can also speak some Japanese, as they were subjected to Japanese education before Taiwan was returned to Chinese rule in 1945 after the Japanese occupation which lasted for half a century. The most popular foreign language in Taiwan is English, which is part of the regular school curriculum.

India (Language)

The primary ones are; Hindi 41%, Bengali 8.1%, Telugu 7.2%, Marathi 7%, Tamil 5.9%, Urdu 5%, Gujarati 4.5%, Kannada 3.7%, Malayalam 3.2%, Oriya 3.2%, Punjabi 2.8%, Assamese 1.3%, Maithili 1.2%, other 5.9%. English is used primarily in business, and for economic and political purposes. Language is regional and dialects play a role in the variety of languages spoken throughout India, with some sources suggesting that there are possibly 1,652 different languages or dialects. These come from four main linguistic families and are centred on different regions. Local guides and translators may be beneficial if you are conducting meetings in a variety of locations throughout the country as difference in language is ubiquitous.

Singapore (Religion)

The religious culture in Singapore is just as diverse as the population. Singaporeans learn about the religious customs and traditions of other population groups early on. On the list of public holidays in Singapore are Christian, Muslim, and Indian holidays, among others. The state is home to ten major religions, including Buddhism, Taoism, Islam, Hinduism, and Christianity. Some people even accept more than one faith. However, discrimination in Singapore is still a problem at times. While exploring the culture in Singapore, you will soon find, that many of the most beautiful and fascinating buildings in the state are religious. While some of them are open to the public, it is important that you abide by certain rules before entering a place of worship: - Take off your shoes before you enter a mosque or a temple. - Wash your feet and hands before entering a Hindu temple. - Dress appropriately! Women are expected to cover their hair or parts of their body before entering a mosque or a temple. - Make sure that taking pictures is allowed before getting out your camera. - A religious building is no place for a picnic! Don't eat or drink there. - Bring along food or flowers to Hindu and Buddhist temples as an offering for the gods.

Hong Kong (Confucianism / Hierarchy / Family Values)

The teachings of Confucius describe the position of the individual in Hong Kong Chinese society. Confucianism is a system of behaviours and ethics that stress the obligations of people towards one another based upon their relationship. .Confucianism stresses duty, loyalty, honour, filial piety, respect for age and seniority, and sincerity. These traits are demonstrated by the Hong Kong Chinese in their respect for hierarchical relationships. Although not readily apparent to the casual observer, there are strict rules about appropriate behaviour and the manner in which people must act in order to respect the hierarchy.

Taiwan (Confucianism)

The teachings of Confucius describe the position of the individual in society. Confucianism is a system of behaviours and ethics that stress the obligations of people towards one another based upon their relationship. The basic tenets are based upon five different relationships: Map of Taiwan - Ruler and subject - Husband and wife - Parents and children - Brothers and sisters - Friend and friend Confucianism stresses duty, loyalty, honor, filial piety, respect for age and seniority, and sincerity.

India (Socialization)

Until the child is two, the mother or grandmother is primary caregiver Once the child is two, older sisters are the primary caregivers Sons are generally given better opportunities and receive a superior education Gender specific roles are encouraged within the family unit and in wider society

Vietnam (Etiquette and Customs)

Vietnamese society has a fair amount of public etiquette. The following are some of the more common points: Etiquette in Vietnam - Avoid public displays of affection with a member of the opposite sex. - Do not touch someone's head. - Pass items with both hands. - Do not point with your finger - use your hand. - Do not stand with your hands on your hips. - Do not cross your arms on your chest. - Do not pass anything over someone's head. - Do not touch anyone on the shoulder. - Do not touch a member of the opposite sex. - Shorts should only be worn at the beach.

Vietnam (Language)

Vietnamese, Vietnam's official language, is a tonal language that can be compared to Cambodia's official language, Khmer. With each syllable, there are six different tones that can be used, which change the definition and it often makes it difficult for foreigners to pick up the language. There are other languages spoken as well such as Chinese, Khmer, Cham and other languages spoken by tribes inhabiting the mountainous regions. Although there are some similarities to Southeast Asian languages, such as Chinese, Vietnamese is thought to be a separate language group, although a member of the Austro-Asiatic language family. In written form, Vietnamese uses the Roman alphabet and accent marks to show tones. This system of writing called quoc ngu, was created by Catholic missionaries in the 17th century to translate the scriptures. Eventually this system, particularly after World War I, replaced one using Chinese characters (chu nom), which had been the unofficial written form used for centuries.

Indonesia (Etiquette)

When riding a Jakarta bus, struggling in post-office crowds, or getting into a football match, one may think that Indonesians have only a push-and-shove etiquette. And in a pedicab or the market, bargaining always delays action. Children may repeatedly shout "Belanda, Belanda" (white Westerner) at a European, or youths shout, "Hey, Mister." In some places a young woman walking or biking alone is subject to harassment by young males. But public behavior contrasts sharply with private etiquette. In an Indonesian home, one joins in quiet speech and enjoys humorous banter and frequent laughs. People sit properly with feet on the floor and uncrossed legs while guests, men, and elders are given the best seating and deference. Strong emotions and rapid or abrupt movements of face, arms, or body are avoided before guests. Drinks and snacks must be served, but not immediately, and when served, guests must wait to be invited to drink. Patience is rewarded, displays of greed are avoided, and one may be offered a sumptuous meal by a host who asks pardon for its inadequacy. Whether serving tea to guests, passing money after bargaining in the marketplace, or paying a clerk for stamps at the post office, only the right hand is used to give or receive, following Muslim custom. (The left hand is reserved for toilet functions.) Guests are served with a slight bow, and elders are passed by juniors with a bow. Handshakes are appropriate between men, but with a soft touch (and between Muslims with the hand then lightly touching the heart). Until one has a truly intimate relationship with another, negative feelings such as jealousy, envy, sadness, and anger should be hidden from that person. Confrontations should be met with smiles and quiet demeanor, and direct eye contact should be avoided, especially with social superiors. Punctuality is not prized— Indonesians speak of "rubber time"—and can be considered impolite. Good guidebooks warn, however, that Indonesians may expect Westerners to be on time! In public, opposite sexes are rarely seen holding hands (except perhaps in a Jakarta mall), while male or female friends of the same sex do hold hands. Neatness in grooming is prized, whether on a crowded hot bus or at a festival. Civil servants wear neat uniforms to work, as do schoolchildren and teachers.

Thailand (Religion)

With 93% of adherents, Buddhism is the official religion in Thailand with Islam as the largest minority religious group at 5% of adherents. Christians account for 1.2% of the Thai population and those in the 'other' or non-religious category account for 0.8%.

Taiwan (Food)

has several variations. In addition to the following representative dishes from the people of Hoklo ethnicity (see Taiwanese people), there are also Aboriginal, Hakka, and local derivatives of Chinese cuisines such as beef noodle soup. Taiwanese cuisine itself is often associated with influences from mid to southern provinces of China, most notably from the province of Fujian (Hokkien), but influences from all of mainland China can easily be found. A notable Japanese influence also exists due to the period when Taiwan was under Japanese rule. Traditional Chinese food can be found in Taiwan, alongside Fujian and Hakka-style as well as native Taiwanese dishes, including dishes from Guangdong, Jiangxi, Chaoshan, Shanghai, Hunan, Sichuan and Beijing.

Afghanistan (Food)

is largely based upon the nation's chief crops, such as wheat, maize, barley and rice. Accompanying these staples are native fruits and vegetables as well as dairy products such as milk, yogurt and whey. Kabuli Palaw is the national dish of Afghanistan. The nation's culinary specialties reflect its ethnic and geographic diversity.[2] Afghanistan is known for its high quality pomegranates, grapes and sweet, melons shaped like Rugby-football.