What you need to know about foreigners

The world has its eyes on South Africa for the World Cup in 2010. We are the sports centre of the world! Even if you’re not a sports nut yourself, chances are you’re going to come across a lot of foreigners in the coming months.

Read on for your very own international etiquette guide...

Communication is vital in any culture. Learning some essential body language that's important or taboo in other cultures will not only make you seem culturally sensitive and aware but it will also make our guests feel good about South Africa.

Here are some pointers that could also make some interesting conversation starters:

    * In China and other far Eastern countries, using a finger to point or beckon is highly rude. Point with an open hand and beckon with palm down and make a scratching motion with your fingers.

    * In Indonesia, talking with your hands on your hips means that you’re angry.

    * The Japanese find public displays of affection very rude. Never point at a Japanese person or turn your back on them. If they compliment you, wave your hand in front of your face to show modesty. If you ask them a question, be prepared for an answer of “maybe” as they will never answer with a definite yes or no. Women will always cover their mouths when they laugh so as to not show their teeth. If you’re ever in doubt when it comes to the Japanese, bow, smile and say “sumimasen” (which can mean just about anything from ‘excuse me’ to ‘thank you’ to ‘I’m sorry’).

    * Koreans always communicate with their hands in full view. Like in Japan, blowing your nose in front of other people is highly offensive.

    * In Spain, snapping the thumb and first finger together is a form of applause.

    * ‘No’ can sometimes mean ‘yes’ in Sri Lanka, Greece, Bulgaria and India. Moving your head from side to side means yes while nodding your head up and down means no.

    * The Germans (like the Singaporeans) will take offence if you’re chewing gum while speaking to them. Your Singaporean friends may be intrigued as gum is illegal in their country but a German may think of you as a cow chewing the cud.

    * If you up-end your finished drink in the company of Australians, you may find yourself in a brawl that has nothing to do with sports! This is a classic gesture that you’ll beat anyone in a fight.

    * Try to avoid the ‘OK’ gesture (middle finger and thumb joined in a circle) amongst foreign visitors as only Americans will understand what you mean. The French find it offensive and some Europeans will think you’re being confusingly crude...

    * If you’re asked to give directions, remember that South Africans have their own set of vocabulary. You may get some very strange looks indeed when you advise to “turn left at the robots”. Also, what is a braai? Lekker? Ja nee? And when exactly is now-now or just now?

If ever in doubt, just smile! This expression is universal and rarely misunderstood.