Gift giving can prove tricky for family and friends. Imagine the stress levels rising when it comes time to give holiday gifts to international associates. Cultural differences can interfere with an already teeth-clenching process. Certain gifts that people flaunt over at home may be considered inappropriate in other parts of the world. Many countries practice different religions, impose strict taboos, uphold superstitions, and have a completely different fashion sense. For instance, style can hold more weight than substance. Color, style, and design may carry different meanings in Asia than it does in the Middle East.
Germany
In Germany, people expect small gifts as a polite gesture when meeting for the first time. Travelers should never offer substantial gifts before reaching a deal on business matters. A small souvenir as a thank-you gift to the local staff serves as a common courtesy. Common appreciated gifts in Germany include quality pens, fine chocolates, imported liquor or red wine, coffee table books, silk scarves, and local food specialties. Never give red roses, lilies, or heather to strangers. In addition, refrain from giving clothing, perfumes, toiletries, and beer.
France
In France, business associates may look at travelers who offer gifts to them as suspicious; therefore, exercise discretion before making the gesture. The French mainly offer gifts during social events, such as a dinner party. The French dictate that businessmen offer a business card with their gift. Travelers who receive a personal invitation to a French home should consider it a rare honor. In this case, bring flowers, chocolates, and liquors.
Italy
Travelers should refrain from giving a gift to businessmen until they receive one first. Italians expect gifts at social events, especially as a thank-you for an invitation to a dinner party. Italians expect lavish brand name items that may not necessarily have an expensive price tag. Always offer a bouquet of flowers in odd numbers to respect old European tradition. Italians appreciate holiday cards as an expression of appreciation. Conversely, travelers should never offer gifts that showcases a company logo, handkerchiefs, brooches, gift wrapped items in gold or black paper, and any sharp items as this indicates a severing of ties.
Australia
In Australia, gift-giving does not really happen in the business world. Travelers visiting families and friends can bring flowers, chocolates, and handicrafts. Other welcome gifts include illustrated books of the traveler's home region, preserved food products in cans and bottles. Other preserved foodstuffs will be seized by Australian customs.
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http://www.giftsnideas.com/gift-guide/gifts-from-around-the-world
