Setting off on your Erasmus+ or Turing Scheme work or study placement in Europe is one of the most exciting adventures of your life! You’ll meet new people from all over the world, discover different cultures and how other people live. You’ll also improve your future career as the extra qualification is always welcome by employers and you’ll gain extraordinary soft skills, such as being able to cope with unexpected challenges, independence, resilience and teamwork (amongst others). Becoming an almost-local in a new city does present its own challenges though as each country has its own set of etiquette rules. Read this piece below to discover how to behave politely in your chosen host country and impress your new friends! We’ll begin with some general pointers.
General Rules of Politeness in European Countries
1. Not Everyone Speaks English!While English is a universal language, not every European speaks it! So don’t expect that you can bet by on your English skills – or that the person you’re speaking to has understanding of what you’re trying to say in English. Instead, ask politely first if they speak English before you begin a conversation. Don’t worry if there’s hesitation because it’s possible the person you’re talking to feels self-conscious speaking in English! It’s always a good idea (and respectful) to have a few phrases in your host country’s language ready to go! Learn to say the following words:
Just by making a little effort you display respect – this will help you to enlarge on conversation and should bring about a friendly exchange of information.
2. Don't SpeakToo Loudly!Europe is quieter than places like America – who tend to talk loudly in public places. However, in Europe, people are mindful about their volume, particularly in museums, churches, on public transport and in restaurants. Be mindful of your volume and follow the example of others.
3. Always Excuse Yourself Before Interrupting
If you need help, for example with directions, don’t just butt into a conversation! Begin with saying excuse me (in the host country’s language). In France, just interrupting someone is considered very rude. So always think before you speak and wait for a gap in conversation before asking for help (unless it’s an emergency of course!).
4. Don’t Touch Fresh Produce in Markets!
This is unacceptable in places like Italy or France (but common practice in England, for example). Ask the seller to help you or if you can touch – or if they have a glove to help you handle the produce.
5. Take Care of Your Appearance
Some parts of Europe value smartly dressed people! Of course, if you’re at university then being casual will be the norm but outside of that, look at what the locals wear and dress accordingly. Some places frown on T-shirts, hoodies and flipflops, especially in cities in Italy and France where smarter attire is usual. If you’re in a beach resort, the unspoken rules will be relaxed and places like England and Ireland are fairly casual unless stated otherwise.
Dining Out Politely In Europe
1. Respect Your Waiter
Waiting staff in some European countries are considered professionals but despite this, you should always treat your waiter/waitress with respect and politeness. Don’t be over demanding and general pleasant tone is acceptable, never be rude or treat waiting staff with disdain!
2. Try Not to Substitute Dishes
Some European countries, like France, do not appreciate changes to their dishes as culinary expertise is considered a gift! In Italy, it’s slightly more acceptable and in England, it is too but don’t expect every restaurant to agree to your requests and be polite if they can’t accommodate your changes.
3. Don’t Rush Your Meal
Europeans see mealtimes as an experience, rather than a transaction, so you shouldn’t feel rushed. Take your time and enjoy your meal. Don’t expect your bill to appear as soon as you’re finished, you’ll need to ask politely. Some restaurants expect you to pay at the counter rather than at your table, this is fairly normal practice in Italy for example.
4. Place Cutlery Correctly
When you finish your food, place your knife and fork at the 5.25pm position on your plate which discreetly lets your waiter or waitress know you are finished. The Brits place their cutlery in the midnight position.
5. Don’t Over Tip!
Sounds strange but many European countries include service on the bill, so you aren’t expected to leave a tip – and there’s no need to go overboard, it’s considered grotesque to overtip!
Other Useful Etiquette Tips in Europe
Here are a few country-led politeness tips:
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