Americans who travel to other countries are often surprised by some of their common etiquette rules when it comes to dining. In Chile, it’s considered rude to eat anything with your hands—even foods like French fries. In France, bread is not to be eaten as appetizer. Additionally, guests should not begin eating until the host or hostess says, “Bon appetite!” If you visit Britain, be sure to always pass a plate of food to the left. Italians only drink cappuccinos before noon, unlike what you generally see in America. Sticking your chopsticks in your rice in Japan is frowned upon and considered to be improper.
Although parmesan cheese is a common topping for Italian food in America, in Italy, you should never ask for parmesan on your food unless it is explicitly given or offered. If you find yourself in Belgium without a bread plate, bread should be placed on the top left rim of your dinner plate. When in Brazil, your hands should always be visible—above the table—unless you are using your utensils. It is also considered rude to cut lettuce up in a salad. In Egypt, and many other parts of Africa and the Middle East, you should not eat with your left hand. When visiting Morocco, you can never place your hands in your mouth, as you’ll need to put your hand back in the communal bowl for food.