Cultural Etiquette: What You Should Never Do in These 5 Countries

Traveling opens doors to new experiences, but it also comes with responsibilities—one of them being understanding and respecting local customs. Each country has its own unspoken rules, and a small cultural misstep can sometimes lead to awkward or uncomfortable situations.

From my experiences visiting Curaçao, Panama, Cuba, France, and the United States, I’ve noticed how different societies have unique ways of communicating, socializing, and behaving in public spaces. Whether you’re planning your next trip or just curious about cultural etiquette, here’s what you should never do in these five countries.

1. Curaçao: Don’t Be Impatient at Restaurants

Curaçao is not just a paradise of turquoise waters and vibrant streets—it’s also a place where food is deeply tied to culture. When I visited, I had the pleasure of eating at La Boheme and other local spots, where the mix of Dutch, Latin, and Caribbean flavors made every meal special. However, one thing became clear: dining here is not rushed.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t expect super-fast service—meals are meant to be enjoyed, and rushing the experience is seen as unnecessary stress.
• Never complain about portion sizes—local dishes are often served in generous amounts, and food is meant to be savored, not hurried.
• Avoid skipping the pleasantries—before ordering, it’s polite to greet staff with a friendly “Bon dia” (Good morning) or “Bon tardi” (Good afternoon).

Tip: Enjoy the slow pace of dining. Try Keshi Yena (a traditional stuffed cheese dish) or a fresh smoothie while soaking in the island vibes.

2. Panama: Don’t Ignore the Indigenous Presence

Panama is a place where modern skyscrapers and indigenous traditions coexist. One of the things that always fascinated me was seeing members of the Guna and Emberá communities walking around the Cinta Costera in their traditional clothing. Some sell handcrafted goods, while others go about their daily activities.

What Not to Do:

• Never take photos of indigenous people without asking—it’s considered disrespectful. Many of them are happy to share their culture, but they appreciate being treated with dignity.
• Avoid calling their handmade crafts “cheap”—these items hold cultural significance and are crafted with skill and patience.
• Don’t assume all Panamanians are the same—the country is incredibly diverse, with various ethnic and cultural groups.

Tip: If you’re interested in learning more, visit an Emberá village tour, where locals share their traditions, dances, and way of life in the rainforest.

3. Cuba: Don’t Criticize the Government Openly

Cuba is a country with a strong sense of national pride, and political discussions are not something to take lightly. Locals are hospitable and warm, always ready to share a dance, a meal, or a story. However, there’s one topic that should be avoided: politics.

What Not to Do:

• Never speak negatively about the government in public—even if locals mention political topics, it’s best to listen rather than engage in deep debates.
• Avoid asking about internet access in a complaining tone—WiFi is limited, but locals have adapted to it, so frustration about connectivity might not be well received.
• Don’t assume people want to leave the country—many Cubans take great pride in their homeland despite its challenges.

Tip: Instead of discussing politics, engage in conversations about music, dance, and food—Cubans have an incredibly rich cultural scene that is worth exploring.

4. France: Don’t Forget to Validate Your Bus Ticket

France is famous for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and of course, its efficient public transport. When I took the bus from Belle Épine Sud, I quickly learned that using the transport system isn’t just about hopping on and off—you need to follow a specific etiquette.

What Not to Do:

• Never board a bus without validating your ticket—unlike some countries where you just show a ticket, in France, you must insert it into a machine to avoid fines.
• Don’t expect overly friendly small talk with strangers—French people are polite but often prefer personal space, especially on public transport.
• Avoid eating strong-smelling food on the bus—this is considered rude, even if you’re in a rush.

Tip: If you’re unsure about transport rules, observe what locals do or ask the driver politely. A simple “Bonjour” (hello) goes a long way in making your interactions smoother.

5. United States: Don’t Expect to See People Socializing Outside

The U.S. is known for its vast cities, suburban neighborhoods, and fast-paced lifestyle. One of the things I noticed during my visits is that, unlike other cultures where people gather outside, many American communities feel empty—even during the day. Children playing outside is rare in some areas, and neighbors don’t always socialize the way they do in other parts of the world.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t assume people will interact with you on the street—in many areas, people stick to their own space, and random conversations with strangers may feel unusual.
• Never let yourself into someone’s yard or porch—even for friendly visits, people value their private space.
• Avoid judging the lack of people outside—most socialization happens indoors, through events, or online.

Tip: If you want to engage with people in the U.S., join local meetups, visit community centers, or go to events where interaction is encouraged.

Final Thoughts

Every culture has its own rules of social conduct, and what might seem normal in one country could be offensive or unusual in another. By understanding cultural etiquette, you not only avoid mistakes but also create meaningful connections with locals.

During my travels, I’ve realized that small gestures of respect—whether learning a local phrase, following social norms, or showing patience—go a long way in making an experience enjoyable.

So next time you visit Curaçao, Panama, Cuba, France, or the U.S., keep these etiquette tips in mind and embrace the beauty of cultural differences.

Francklin Pierre
Caribbean Social Communicator
Paginter.com