Keep your hands to yourself

Be aware of what your hands might be saying in a different culture. Many people “talk with their hands” but what their gestures are saying may different from country to country.

For example, according to FCO advice for Zimbabwe, a politically turbulent country, an open hand is a symbol of the opposition party. A friendly wave may therefore be misinterpreted. In Australia, a “thumbs-up” sign is a profane gesture. In many Latin American countries, a simple hand signal can warn you against theft, according to a Spanish Language website.

The best defense? Read the travel advice for your country and invest in a good guidebook to learn about the culture and customs where you are traveling.