Do's and Taboos Around the World

by Roger E. Axtell (Editor)

Looks at protocol, customs and etiquette, hand gestures and body language, as well as gift giving and receiving.

Genres: Nonfiction, Travel, Reference, Communication, Trivia, Anthropology, Sociology

200 pages, Paperback

First published November 30, 1984

Reviews

[Apryl Anderson · Rating 2 out of 5]

It was fun to revisit this book, especially to celebrate freedom from intourist games (former Communist countries). Culturally, the more things change, the more they stay the same. Don't try to memorize every phrase & gesture. Be observant and respectful, and you'll have a blast. Always laugh at yourself, never at others, because we all know who's the bigger freak.

[James Huston · Rating 3 out of 5]

would give this 4 stars back in 1993 when originally published. Still very useful today when understanding older cultural generations and youths with strong traditional upbringings. The world is more diverse though so this book is needed "IN ADDITION TO" a newer book on the same subject focused on the two most recent generations of population.

[Liam · Rating 3 out of 5]

Obviously outdated, but it’s almost cutely reminiscent of a bygone day of business travel. Still some worthwhile info though

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book to read on international business --the basics on what to do and not do. An example: Giving someone in China a gift of a clock is considered bad luck. (probably because time passes...) Gifts given in China (such as cash) are often given in a red envelope as a sign of prosperity (among other things).

A must read --even if you are traveling out of the USA.

[Jill · Rating 2 out of 5]

An extraordinarily dated (I brought it back from Rick's Indiana archives) pile of stereotypes targeted to the American businessperson. So old it includes West Germany and the USSR. Also pen propaganda. Good for the bathroom, which is where I finished it.

[Leonca · Rating 4 out of 5]

A broad comparison of customs in cultures around the world, though not too in-depth. The early 90s publishing date makes me wonder what the author would have to say about current United States trends, like chat-speak and using random Japanese words or phrases.

[Leslie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fun, quick read about different cultural mores around the world, and how to avoid offending a different culture.

[Abraham Ray · Rating 5 out of 5]

interesting book of what to do & not do around the world including the us!

[Spook Sulek · Rating 3 out of 5]

Outdated, but alright.

[emyrose8 · Rating 2 out of 5]

Better for business people than for people traveling for pleasure. Outdated too.

[Muhammad Mahsoon]

too old to relate.