Enlarging Your World

We all heard about traditions and customs from the colourful countries of the world that may seem a little bit strange for us. But getting to know these differences -  or one might even say specialities – not only brings us closer to other cultures, but can help us navigate our way through the labyrinth of working within international circumstances.

Before getting into the depth of dos and don’ts while negotiating with people from foreign countries, let’s see some unique examples from the everyday life:

• In Florida you’re not allowed to break more than three dishes a day, or chip the edge off more than four cups and/or saucers
• It is against the law to speak English in Illinois
• When you are in Wisconsin be careful, because it is illegal to wake a fireman when he is asleep
• In Oklahoma females are forbidden from doing their own hair without being licensed by the state
• In New York City you are not allowed to read newspaper while walking on the street
• Criminals of Texas are required to give their victims 24 hours notice, either orally or in writing, and to explain the nature of the crime to be committed
• In Rhode Island (Province) it is illegal to sell toothpaste and toothbrush to the same customer on a Sunday
• The import and sale of bubblegum is prohibited in Singapore
• Under Australian Communications Authority (ACA) regulations, a modem can not pick up on the first ring. If it does the, ACA permit for your modem is invalid and there is a $12,000 fine
• In Canada, Ottawa, it is illegal to eat ice-cream on Bank Street on a Sunday and in Oshawa it is illegal to climb trees
• It is illegal for a lady to eat chocolates on a public conveyance in England and with the exception of carrots, most goods may not be sold on Sunday

And there is even more…  Customs related to jobs and professions can also be matters of interest, especially when there is a chance to misunderstand an expression or sign of our partner…

• Bulgarians shake their head for “yes” and nod for “no”
• In Morocco prostitution is legal but the prostitutes must pay taxes like any other business
• In Germany it is necessary to provide at least 1,5 square metres of free space to all employees and every office must have a view of the sky, even if it is small
• Italian women called Maria may not work as prostitutes in their home country
• Milkmen in Missouri, St. Louis may not run while working
• Any long-haired teacher who had a hair cut may not get pay rise in Arcansas
• Firemen of New York City (Rochester) must wear ties while on duty
• In Island anybody may practice medical activity if he/she hangs up a board with the next inscription: Scottulaejnir, which means charlatan in English
• Muslims do not work on Fridays because of their religious beliefs
• Drivers of power-driven vehicles who stop at pedestrian crossings are liable to a fine of up to five yen, or a warning in Beijing

After learning this, there is no doubt we are living in a strange world. Well, at least for those who have to follow these rules every day…

What about your experiences? Have you seen or heard anything that seemed strange to you? Let us know by leaving a comment.