In preparation for the London 2012 Olympics, the United Kingdom tourism bureau produced a series of “market profiles” to explain the cultural nuances of international tourists to British business owners. The following are snippets of what each Brit business owner should know in order to provide “efficient and helpful customer service that takes account of cultural needs.”

Koreans are not Chinese.

The Dutch do not believe in lining up and show almost no consideration in public for a person’s status, gender, or age.

Don’t ask personal questions to a Brazilian.

The South African sense of humor is based more on American slapstick comedy than on British wit and play on words. Therefore they may struggle to understand the ‘joke.’

Malaysians dislike walking long distances and are likely not to be very active.

Never discuss the Mexican-American War, poverty, aliens or earthquakes with Mexicans.

The French will begin eating only after someone says ‘bon appetit.’

Don’t be offended by Argentine humor, which may mildly attack your clothing or your weight.

The handshake is the most common greeting in the USA and handshakes are firm, brief and confident. Direct eye contact is important and in most situations you can call people by their first names.

Canadians do not like to be compared to Americans.

Despite their love for the outdoors, recent studies show Australians as couch potatoes with up to 60% of the population obese or overweight.

Smoking is entrenched in Chinese society as a male domain. Chinese visitors may find it difficult to accept smoking bans in public places. They also may be puzzled by the prevalence of women smoking.

Singapore, though modern, is still a rather conservative society. While sitting cross-legged, the sole of the feet should not be pointed at anyone as it implies disrespect.

Cleanliness is of major importance for German visitors.

If an Arab bites his right finger, it is a sign of contempt, and this will usually be accompanied by muttering.


Compiled by Rebecca Gomez

Photograph by Rebecca Gomez

Source: http://www.visitbritain.org