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Etiquette
Despite Moldova is a small country it is multinational one with its special traditions, customs and rules of etiquette. Here are some of them that can be useful for you:
- There is a nice custom in Moldova to be invited to someone's house as a guest. If you are just invited to the family house take a little present: a bottle of wine, a cake or a bouquet of flowers. Don't worry if you are late. It is normal to be late by up to 30 mins in our country. Moldavian wines are much famous in the world. So, talking with a host you should pay attention on savory Moldavian wines. This is a great favor for a host.
- When eating dinner at someone's home, casual dress is accepted. Be ready to give toasts at dinner. They are often asked to do for guests. The best toasts are: "To your health!' "Chin-Chin!"
- If a host entertains to you at wine it doesn't mean that you have to drink a full beaker of wine.
- Be prepared to take off your shoes upon entering a home. To keep apartments clean, most hosts will provide you with a pair of slippers.
- Usually the person who invited you to restaurant pays the bill. Tips are not included in it. So, you can give tips as much as you want to.
- At the entrance of upscale restaurants, expect that your coat, briefcase or baggage can be checked. Men should not take off their jackets unless asked.
- If you are going to date with a woman it would be better to bring flowers for her.
- On public transportation, give up your seat to mothers with children, the elderly people, or the disabled ones.
- In Orthodox churches women wear scarves or hats, and men take off their hats.
- Don't put your thumb between your first two fingers - this is a very rude gesture.
- When you meet or part with someone it is used to shake hands. But for all that it is very likely to shake hands with a woman only if she is an initiator. Close friends hug and kiss when meeting.
- Do not shake hands across the doorstep.
- Smoking in Moldova is a widespread habit and special places for nonsmokers are rarity, as a rule.
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