Ten Helps for Being a Good Guest

I found this advice helpful and hope you do too!

It’s not always easy to be a good guest. When we were young, we needed coaching to know how to behave appropriately “in front of company.” It’s certainly not natural to know what’s expected from us in a cross cultural situation. Though you may never fully understand why, the following social hints (in no particular order) are universally acceptable for acting with sensitivity and humility.

1. Show respect for your host by using the proper greetings and titles, especially to the eldest in the group.
2. Ask your new acquaintances about their families. You can show them pictures of your family, but it’s best not to share photos of your house or car or boat.
3. Be a good observer and listener, and ask polite questions.
4. Dress appropriately to show honor to the culture. Usually, the rule of thumb is to dress moderately.
5. Act very discreetly with the opposite sex.
6. Always show gratitude for your accommodations and food, whatever they may be. You are an honored guest and are receiving the best they have to offer. Don’t boast about what Americans have or “how we do things back home.”
7. Never show your temper. Many cultures see a display of anger as the greatest of sins.
8. Be sure you get permission to photograph someone. Don’t offend your hosts by taking photos of what may be considered private or what may be considered a negative aspect of the country.
9. Show empathy and appreciation, but not pity, for the surroundings. It’s important to be respectful of where your host lives and works. If you encounter any beggars, ask your host how to respond to them since local philosophies and practices vary from country to country.
10.Be flexible with your time. Go with the flow of the culture and the people you’re involved with. Go to learn and serve, not to keep track of the time. There is a saying in foreign countries about Americans, “They have the watches, but we have the time.”