When visiting Ukraine, it may be useful to know few simple rules of etiquette:
- If you are invited into a family home, it is traditional to bring a gift. A bottle of wine, a cake or a bouquet of flowers is customary. If there is a child in the house, it is appropriate to provide him/her with a small gift as well.
- Take off your gloves when shaking hands. Be prepared to remove your shoes before entering. Usually hosts will provide you with a pair of slippers.
- Going to upscale restaurants, expect that your coat, briefcase will be checked.
- When eating dinner at someone's home, casual dress is accepted.
- If you bring flowers, make sure it is an odd number of flowers. Even numbers are only brought to funerals.
- Be prepared to accept all food and drink offered you when visiting friends. Ukrainians are known for their generosity when it comes to feeding others. Turning down food may be considered rude and disrespect.
- Be ready to toast at dinner, guests are often asked to do so. Offer your snacks and cigarettes to those around you, it is a tradition to share.
- For business meeting, dress should be conservative, jeans and sneakers are not acceptable. Men should not take off their jackets unless asked, but should take off their hats.
- In Orthodox churches women wear scarves or hats, and men take off their hats. Loud talk or laugh is prohibited.
- Don't put your thumb between your first two fingers - this is a very rude gesture.
This tip is provided by supplier M19469
