Editing How to be a good guest (section)

== [[Cultural Differences]] ==
Violating customs can cause offense. Read ahead of time and find what is appropriate, and what are considered "local sensitivities". Ask your host what is expected, or assume the most conservative scenario. Be well-informed in advance, so that you do not inadvertently find yourself embarrassed. For instance: 

* Remove your shoes outside the door in Japan, and you eat with your right hand only in some parts of the Middle East. 

* '''Avoid conversation topics that are taboo or poor taste to discuss'''. These subjects are things like: (homo) sexuality, religion, politics, war, genocide, minorities. These are probably not the best topics to discuss in casual or public environments. Save these conversations for your close friends, and not for people you have just met. This is a good social relation tip in general, actually.

* Hindus don't eat beef, as cows are considered sacred. Muslims generally do not eat pig related food products (as do some Jews).

* Sometimes, romantic couples may need to sleep separately. 

More info:

* [[India#How to be a good guest|India]]
* [[Netherlands#The Dutch|Netherlands]]