Today and tomorrow I want to break down general dining etiquette from around the world, you never know when you might be out traveling. Today I'll hit up the rest of the Americas and Europe.
Central America:
-Believe: When you finish a meal, push the plate away and lay the silverware parallel on the side of the plate. If given a tortilla, then tear it apart to eat it
-El Salvador: When out, you may find that locals will order the wait staff around, if you do so, be polite when doing this for yourself. When giving a toast, say "Salud" (Health), and include a part of how you're happy to be in the country. Tipping is not customary
-Guatemala: If you place both pieces of silverware on your plate at any time, you are signaling to the wait staff that you are finished eating. Your hands are expected to be above the table any time you are not eating. It is good to eat everything on your plate, even better to ask for seconds (Hint: take a smaller portion to start and then go again later). Generally you will not discuss business at a business breakfast or lunch (dinner is reserved for the family), follow your Guatemalan associates for guidance in this.
South America:
-Brazil: Pass food to the left. Waitstaff may be summoned by eye contact, be aware of wondering eyes.
-Peru: Amount of food served is based on the groups business class.
-Chile: When pouring wine, do not pour backwards, as it means you dislike the person you are serving.
Caribbean:
-Cuba: Waving or calling the names of wait staff is considered very rude. If invited to someone's home for a meal, the host will tell you where to sit. If you tip (not required/not illegal) pass the tip to the wait staff, do not leave it on the table
-Haiti: It is in poor taste to leave the table during a meal.
Central/Eastern Europe:
-Czech: The more you drink, the more you are offered. If not using hands, they are expected to be visible, rest your wrists on the side of the table. Follow more senior members into a room (as in reverse of common US Military customs).
-Poland: If soup is served without a spoon, then you are to lift and drink it.
-Russia: Alcohol is generally only had with dessert.
Western Europe:
-England: Make reservations for meals, as dinner usually starts at 8pm and serving ends at 11pm.
-France: Never cut your lettuce when served salad. You are expected to eat all the food on your plate and not ask for seconds.
-Sweden: If invited to an associates home, follow his/her lead for the discussion, and you will be expected to remove your shoes.
Alright, the above is just a small sampling of varying etiquette guidelines, learn a bit more about the nation you are traveling to before you go. Tomorrow we'll hit up Africa and Asia.
Bon appétit!
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