Gift giving is an important practice that can show a number of different meanings. Here are some gift giving traditions from a few different countries.
◆In Zimbabwe
In Zimbabwe, it is common to ask for a gift straightly. When a gift has been bought even without asking for it, the worst thing you can do is to refuse the offering, even if the giving family is poor.
◆In Japan
The Japanese place a great importance on the act of gift giving. For example, people don't like uncovered money. So whether you're sending money as a gift or just leaving a tip (小费), put your money in an envelope (信封).
◆In India
As left hands are considered unclean in Indian culture, acts such as touching, passing money, or giving gifts must be done with your right hand.
◆In Russia
Vodka (伏特加酒) might seem a perfect gift for a Russian, but in fact, a lot of them would see it as an unimaginative gift. Many even think the idea is terrible.
◆In Ireland
Don't be astonished if your gift is refused a couple of times in Ireland. This tradition comes from a time when they didn't have enough potatoes to eat in the 1840s, and because of this, the receivers are making sure that you can really part from the thing that you are offering.
