Getting to Grips with Culture

 

It’s always useful to read up on where you’re going.  Personally, I always try to have mastered at least a few words of greeting, as well as please, yes, no and thank you. If you’re going to be living in a community, staying for an extended period, or just passing through, it is worth knowing what is polite and what is offensive.

Generally, it is better to dress conservatively, The way that you dress is a form of communication and it says something about you.  But what it says may be interpreted differently in different cultures and that interpretation may not be what you want! It’s a personal decision about how much you want to express your individuality and freedom versus how much you want to consider the local culture.

Be aware that pubic displays of affection are offensive almost everywhere.  However handholding is perfectly acceptable between people of the same sex because it is universally presumed that they are just affectionate friends!

A really important piece of advice is to avoid eating and drinking in public and in particular, while standing or walking.  This is regarded as being very crass and rude because you may be eating or drinking in front of people who have nothing. Some specific observations are included below.  When in doubt – ask!

 

Uganda

Women should avoid wearing trousers unless in the city.  It indicates you have loose morals!

Similarly make sure shoulders and knees are covered at all times.  Wearing shorts is regarded as wearing your pants!

Try not to whistle – it means you want the head of the household to die.  Ditto, sitting on his chair. This will not make a good impression!

 

Smoking is regarded as both stupid and unacceptable.  It is seen as burning money!

Rwanda

It is not acceptable for unmarried men and woman to be alone together unless in a public place

Traditional greeting is a distant hug, followed by a triple brow touch and a handshake

Avoid talking about politics or ethnicity

If you invite someone out – you pay

All fizzy drinks are called Fanta

But dont worry. Enjoy your trip. In my experience, people are very tolerant of the stupidity of  Westerners!