Avoid social blunders in foreign lands

Americans aren't always greeted with open arms when traveling abroad. That could be because open arms aren't polite in that particular country, or it could be that we're perceived as louts and the people there don't want to hug us. It's your mission to find out.

The travel Web site Vayama.com surveyed U.S. travelers, about half of whom said they have committed social sins in other countries, and about the same number said they simply force their American customs on others, not bothering to find out if you're supposed to let the oldest guy in the room start eating first (Kenya).

To help you prepare, we've culled some tips from the site's etiquette section, www.vayama.com/etiquette:

-- Don't be offended by Argentine humor, which can sometimes be insulting, such as poking fun at your appearance, weight or attire. It's all in good fun.

-- Don't kiss the hand of an Austrian woman unless you are Austrian.

-- In Brazil, don't make the "OK" sign with your hand. It's considered a very rude gesture.

-- Don't give a Chinese person a clock as a gift. Clocks are associated with death and funerals, and a clock as a gift can be seen as a sinister action.

-- In Denmark, don't be too touchy-feely. It's not appreciated.

-- Just the opposite in Italy. Don't pull away or get offended if an Italian associate wishes to hug you. Embrace him or her in return!

-- In Egypt, don't use your left hand to eat.

-- In Ghana, don't blow your nose at the dinner table. (Could we adopt that here, please?)

-- But in Kenya, finish everything on your plate. It's not necessary, but it's a polite thing to do.

And if all that is too much to remember, might we suggest Orlando this year?