What To Know Before You Visit--IRELAND, SWITZERLAND and POLAND

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

01 Jan 2008 06:45 PM

Continuing my series about learning the social conventions practiced in foreign lands BEFORE you leave on your trip abroad, this blog highlights social norms you should be aware of before you travel to Ireland, Switzerland or Poland.

IRELAND

The Irish have a reputation for being easy-going people who love to party and eagerly embrace visitors. In Ireland strangers are treated like friends (especially in pubs and restaurants) and it is not uncommon for locals to chat up tourists for hours at a time.

Pubs are the center of social interaction in Ireland, especially in smaller communities throughout the country. It is here where you will not only be treated to refreshments, but you'll also get a hearty dose of humor and a storytelling. However, be warned: Smoking is banned in all public places, including pubs, bars and restaurants

Dinner is the main meal of the day in Ireland and is now eaten in the evening. Cities in Ireland have less stringent policies in regards to clothing than most European countries and casual dress is widely accepted as in keeping with a largely agricultural setting. Women tend to shy away from pants and stick to dresses and skirts. Handshaking is a common practice and is practiced in both formal and informal settings.

SWITZERLAND

In Switzerland it is customary to give unwrapped flowers to the hostess when invited for a meal or if you are staying the night. However, you want to avoid giving red roses, chrysanthemums or white asters as they are considered funeral flowers. Casual wear is widely accepted, though most upscale restaurants and hotel dining rooms require men to wear jackets and ties.

POLAND

Poland is known for its friendly, industrious people and tourists are usually made very welcome. Roman Catholicism plays an important role in daily life and criticism or jokes about religion are not tolerated. If you travel to both the urban and rural parts of the country you'll notice there are stark contrasts in the lifestyles. Residents who live in rural parts of Poland tend to be very religious and conservative.

Shaking hands is the normal form of greeting. Also, it is customary to bring flowers, preferably in odd numbers when you are visiting a Polish home. If you are visiting a local restaurant you should dress modestly. Fairly conservative casual wear is the most suitable attire, but dress should be formal for dinners at upscale restaurants. Also, smoking is restricted in most public buildings.

Finally, a note to snap happy tourists: Military installations including border points are not to be photographed.

Related Articles:

What To Know Before You Visit---FRANCE

Speeding in Ireland

Touring Ireland

European Walking Tours

Learn more about Michele Cheplic

Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism.

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