LANGUAGES & RELIGION

Languages:
More than 1,000 different languagesare spoken in Africa. Although most countries in Eastern and Southern Africa have adopted colonial European languages for official government business, most people speakindigenous or local languages. In Namibia, people may speak English, Afrikaans, German, Oshivambo, Herero, or Nama. In Tanzania, people can speak English or Swahili. Due to their colonial pasts, the majority of the countries in West Africa have adopted French, English, Spanish, or Portuguese as national languages. The majority of each countries' inhabitants, however, also speak one or more indigenous languages. Cameroonians may speak one or more of 24 different languages, in addition to French or English.

Religion:
Most people in the fourteen independent countries in North Africa are Muslim. The religion they believe in is called Islam. Muslims pray to their god Allah and his prophet Muhammad five times a day facing the city of Mecca. A prophet is someone who is believed to speak for a god. The Koran is the Muslim holy book. In African countries south of the Sahara Desert, people follow many different religions. Some are Muslim, although the majority of the people are Christian. Missionaries from other parts of the world broughtChristianity to many countries in Africa. Some people, however, choose to follow ancient religions and believe that natural spirits and ancestors affect everyday life.

Identification. South Africa is the only nation-state named after its geographic location; there was a general agreement not to change the name after the establishment of a constitutional nonracial democracy in 1994. The country came into being through the 1910 Act of Union that united two British colonies and two independent republics into the Union of South Africa. After the establishment of the first colonial outpost of the Dutch East India Company at Cape Town in 1652, South Africa became a society officially divided into colonizer and native, white and nonwhite, citizen and subject, employed and indentured, free and slave. The result was a fragmented national identity symbolized and implemented by the white minority government's policy of racial separation. Economic status has paralleled political and social segregation and inequality, with the black African, mixed-race ("Coloured"), and Indian and Pakistani ("Asian") population groups experiencing dispossession and a lack of legal rights. Since the first nonracial elections in 1994, the ruling African National Congress (ANC) has attempted to overcome this legacy and create unified national loyalties on the basis of equal legal status and an equitable allocation of resources. Read more: Culture of South Africa - history, people, clothing, traditions, women, beliefs, food, customs, family http://www.everyculture.com/Sa-Th/South-Africa.html#b#ixzz1yxISyG96

MUSIC

FOOD MUSIC FOLKTALES ART

Bells, drums, guitars, likembes (thumb pianos), strung bows, trumpets, and xylophones are just some of the many instruments played by people in Africa. The music of Africa is a part of all aspects of life. All forms of instruments, such as string, wind, and percussion, originated in Africa. Drums are a common instrument, but some parts of Africa have few trees, so you will find flutes and trumpets in treeless areas. Many African songs are work chants that are sung while the seeds are being planted or the crops are being harvested. The smallest children are taught to sing and dance. They may be taught to play music and even build their own instruments. The radio of Africa is known for both traditional roots as well as modern instruments playing western classical, jazz, rock and reggae

PEOPLE
More than four million years ago, humankind originated in Africa. Our appearance and the way our bodies function are evolutionary adaptations to the African environments. Since the beginning, Africans have struggled to survive against the difficult living conditions of the continent. While civilizations rose and fell around the world, most African communities remained rather small. European powers began conquering and dividing the continent centuries ago, and the influence of the foreign nation exists to this day. The colonial period was brutal for Africa, and the legacy of its devastating past continues to trouble its people. It influenced all aspects of African society and culture. Modern Africans are arguably the most diverse people in the world. More than 3,000 unique ethnicgroups are recognized in Africa. The customs,languages, and cultural mores of people on the continent are quite different from country to country and from region to region.

1. Basic Courtesies and dining etiquette 2. Simple hand gestures 3. Spacing 4. Rude or hostile signs 5. Waiting in line 6. Shaking Head 7. Nodding Head 8. Waving 9. Handshake 10. Hellos and Good-bye

AFRICA

EGYPT 1. Right hand is designated for eating and the left for bodily hygiene. Half closed eyes do not express boredom. Often women will walk slightly behind the men. People smoke and public; it is polite to offer cigarettes to those near by. Do not eat everything on your plate when dining. Also, only eat finger food with the right hand. 2. To ask, Would you sleep with me? tap two index fingers together, side-by-side. 3. Men and women stand relatively further apart, but men will stand closer together. 4. It is rude to show the sole of your shoe. 9. Handshakes are followed by a touch on the elbow.

NIGERIA 1. Respect punctuality. Sometimes important guests are greeted with applause. Wink at children to signify them to leave the room. 4. A vulgar sign is to hold the hand forward at shoulder or head level, with the fingers spread.

SOUTH AFRICA 1. Cover mouth when yawning. 2. Holding hands out in a cupped manner means that, "The gift you may give me (for carrying your bags) will mean so much that I must hold it in two hands"; this action is often done by porters. 9. Handshake is the most common form of greeting.

ZIMBABWE 1. Applauding denotes appreciation and politeness.

4. It is rude to maintain eye contact. 10. Women and girls may often curtsey in greeting.

DON'T touch someone's arm or stand too close to someone. DO keep your hands and arms at your sides when standing or keep them loosely folded on your lap when sitting. DON'T put your hands in your pockets, on your hips, or cross your arms in front of you. DON'T yawn without covering your mouth, bite your nails, spit, chew with your mouth open, audibly sniffle, or pick your nose.

Egypt Etiquette Tips

In many countries, flowers are a popular gift, but in Egypt, giving someone flowers can be a bit of a faux pas! In Egyptian culture, giving flowers is reserved for weddings, funerals, or for the ill. Sweets, electronic gadgets, and compasses make good gifts, though! Compasses make particularly good gifts for Muslims, because it will allow them to be directed to Mecca. Egypt is a friendly country with lots to see and do, but there is a lot of etiquette to follow. Egyptians are religious people, and some of their traditions are based off their religion. Because of this, it is important to learn a bit about Egyptian etiquette. Below are some dos and don'ts to keep in mind for your trip to Egypt.

1. Dress Attire

DO dress modestly and somewhat formally. Men shouldn't wear tank-tops or shorts, unless they're at the beach. Women should wear either pants or skirts that fall below the knee, and shirts that cover their shoulders.

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DO wear a suit and tie if you are a man at a business function. Men should not wear visible jewelry at business meetings, either. DO dress appropriately if visiting a mosque. Women need to cover their hair, and no skin should be exposed besides the hands, face, and feet. And remember to take your shoes off! DO feel comfortable dressing less conservatively at resorts, but whenever you leave the resort, go back to wearing more modest attire.

2. Table Manners

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DON'T use your left hand to eat. DO ask for seconds. It compliments the chef. DON'T put salt on your food. It's considered insulting to the chef. DO leave a tiny bit of food on your plate when you are full. This indicates that you are done eating.

3. Tipping

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DO tip if you enjoyed the service at a restaurant. There is usually a 10-12% tip included but leaving an additional 5% is common. DO tip a taxi driver 10%.

4. Gift Giving and Accepting Gifts

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DON'T give flowers as a gift. In Egyptian culture, flowers are for weddings, funerals, and for the ill. DON'T give alcohol unless you are certain that the recipient drinks. Devout Muslims don't drink alcohol. DO give children gifts such as candy, toys, or magic markers. DO present a gift with your right hand, and not your left. DON'T open a gift until later. DO give sweets as a gift, such as konafa, baklava, or petit fours. DO give electronic gadgets or a nice compass. A compass makes a great gift for a Muslim because it allows them to be directed to Mecca.

5. Body Gestures

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DON'T sit with your legs crossed. Showing the bottoms of your feet is considered rude. DO put your right hand over your heart if declining something. It makes your refusal seem much more polite and gracious. DON'T make the number five with your hand with the palm facing out, and don't stretch your arm out with your palm in someone's face. A palm indicates warding off evil, so those gestures can be offensive. DON'T engage in public displays of affection. DON'T stand too close to a member of the opposite sex, though personal space between members of the same sex might be closer than you are used to. Don't move away, though! It could be seen as rude.

6. Greetings

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DO shake hands upon meeting. In Egypt, handshakes are often lengthy and a little bit limp, accompanied by eye contact and a smile. DO exchange cheek kisses once a relationship is developed. This is only done among people of the same sex. DO wait for a woman to offer a handshake first, if you are a man. If she doesn't, bow your head to greet her.

7. Visitors Etiquette

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DO remove your shoes upon entering an Egyptian person's home. DO bring a gift to your hosts, such as candy or pastries. DO bring a gift for your host's children. DO expect to be offered food repeatedly, even if you keep declining. DO compliment your host's house. DO accept if offered coffee or tea. Even if you don't want it, accept it anyway, and simply don't drink it. If you refuse, your host may feel rejected.

8. Business Meeting

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DO make appointments in advance and confirm a week before. DO expect interruptions throughout the meeting. This is common and shouldn't be taken personally. DO engage in small talk in the beginning of the meeting. DO have materials and business cards translated into Egyptian Arabic. DO be patient. Business moves slowly in Egypt. DO expect haggling. Egyptians can be tough negotiators.

9. Photo Etiquette

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DON'T take pictures of military buildings. DO ask an Egyptian if you can take their picture. They usually won't mind. The above list of etiquette may seem somewhat overwhelming, but when in doubt, follow the lead of those around you. Respect Egypt's traditions, and you will blend in much better. Have a safe and wonderful trip to Egypt!

Kenyan Etiquette Tips

When greeting a Kenyan, be sure to inquire about his or her health and family. This is considered courteous, because it shows a genuine interest in the person you are conversing with. Greetings are very important in Kenyan culture, so it's important to never rush though the greeting process. Although Kenyan culture is very different from ours, you will find that Kenyans are incredibly polite to visitors. Return their kindness and respect their culture by following their etiquette. Below is a list of Kenyan etiquette for you to keep in mind on your trip to Kenya.

1. Dress Attire

DO dress formally for business occasions. For men, wear a suit and tie. For a woman, wear a dress or suit, but make sure the skirt is below the knee. Women will not usually wear pants in a business meeting.

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DON'T wear tank-tops or tight, revealing clothes if you are a woman. Some areas are Muslim, so it's best for women to dress modestly. DO dress less formally for casual situations. Sneakers are fine for casual attire. Shorts are acceptable for a safari, but they're not usually worn by Kenyans.

2. Table Manners

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DO behave formally when dining with Kenyans. Kenyan dining etiquette may vary. DO wash your hands before and after eating. DON'T use your left hand while eating. DON'T begin eating until the oldest male begins. DO take only a little bit of food the first time you are served so you have room for second helpings. DON'T expect beverages with your meal. Kenyans believe it's impolite to drink and eat at the same time. You'll probably be served a drink afterwards. DO finish everything off your plate. It's not necessary, but it's a polite thing to do.

3. Tipping

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DO tip in the following fashion: Tip baggage porters kshs 50-100. Tip bar staff kshs 20-30 per drink per round. Tip waiters kshs 50-100. Tip safari guides kshs 500 per person per day.

Tip hotel room staff kshs 50 per day.

4. Gift Giving and Accepting Gifts

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DON'T give or receive gifts with the left hand. Use the right hand only, or both hands for larger gifts. DO give practical gifts. DO wrap a present nicely. DON'T give alcohol unless you are certain the recipient drinks.

5. Greetings

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DO greet with a handshake. Close female friends will sometimes hug and kiss each other on each cheek. DO grasp the right wrist with your left hand when shaking hands with an elder. It shows respect. DO remember that Muslim men and women may not shake hands with the opposite sex. DO ask questions when greeting. Appropriate questions are about the person's health, family, etc. DO say "Jambo?" while greeting, immediately after a handshake. "Jambo?" means "How are you?"

6. Visitors Etiquette

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DO bring your hosts a gift, such as dessert or flowers. Tea and sugar are common gifts in the more rural parts of Kenya. DO remove your shoes before entering.

7. Business Meeting

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DO make time for small talk during a business meeting. Personal relationships are very important in Kenya. Ask about their families. DO communicate diplomatically. Directness is uncommon in Kenya. DON'T show anger. In Kenyan culture, displays of anger means mental instability. DO present and receive business cards with both hands. DO be flexible. Sometimes meetings will be very structured (especially if it's with an Indian or British owned company), sometimes they won't.

8. Socializing and Conversation

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DO learn a few works in Kiswahili. Kenyans usually like when guests to their country try to make an effort to speak their language. DO understand that women over the age of 21 will often be referred to as "Mama" and men over the age of 35 are often referred to as "Mzee." Children will often refer to all adults as "Aunt or Uncle." DON'T kiss or hold hands in public. DO understand that Kenyans will sometimes use analogies, metaphors, and stories when conversing. This is to avoid bluntness. DON'T speak loudly, although in more rural areas Kenyans may speak louder.

9. Photo Etiquette

DO ask permission before photographing someone.

10. Safari Etiquette

DON'T imitate animal sounds, throw objects, or corner a wild animal. You never know how an animal will react, and it could be dangerous.

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DO listen to the guide. Respect their judgment; they're the expert! DON'T smoke while on a safari. DON'T litter. It's disrespectful and can be dangerous to animals. If you bring something in, take it out with you. DON'T take anything you find while on a safari. DON'T feed animals. DO take photos while on a safari in National Parks. While traveling to Kenya, be friendly and kind to people and remember to always keep an open mind. When in doubt, follow the lead of those around you. You will catch on in no time! Safe and happy travels to Kenya!

Did you know that Singapore is made up of many different cultures? Singapore is a combination of people of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and European descent. Because of this, etiquette can be a bit confusing. For instance, if giving a gift to someone who is an ethnic Malay, you shouldn't give them anything made of leather. If giving a gift to someone who is an ethnic Chinese, you should not give clocks or knives. That sounds confusing, but don't get overwhelmed. Your best bet is to be conservative in your behavior and read up on Singaporean etiquette. Below is a list of etiquette to help you out on your trip to Singapore. 1. Dress Attire

DO dress conservatively for business functions. For men, a white shirt, a tie, and nice pants are suitable. Blouses and skirts or pantsuits are fine for women.

DO dress how you normally would in other situations. Casual Western dress is common. 2. Table Manners

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DO allow the host to do the ordering at a restaurant. DO expect a banquet by someone of Chinese descent and reciprocate with an equally nice banquet before leaving Singapore. DON'T eat until the host begins when dining with people of Chinese descent. DON'T eat with your left hand when dining with those of Malay or Indian descent. DON'T let the serving spoon touch your plate and don't share leftovers. DON'T refuse the first offer of food or beverages. If you want to refuse seconds, put your hand above your plate and tell them, "No, thank you." DO put your spoon and fork next to each other on your plate to indicate that you are done. If eating with chopsticks, put them on your chopstick rest to indicate that you are done. 3. Tipping

DON'T feel obligated to tip. It's not customary in Singapore and it's even frowned down upon by the government. Sometimes a service charge will be included in a bill. 4. Gift Giving and Accepting Gifts

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DON'T open a gift until later. DO use both hands when presenting a gift.

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DON'T wrap gifts in white. White is a mourning color. Red is considered a happy color, so you may wish to wrap a present in red. DO understand that gift giving etiquette varies depending on the ethnic background of the individual. See below for gift giving etiquette for those of Chinese, Indian, or Malay descent. Exchanging gifts to someone of Chinese descent: DON'T give cutting utensils to someone, such as a pair of scissors or a set of knives. It represents severing the relationship. DON'T give clocks or handkerchiefs. They are associated with death. DON'T give flowers. They are traditionally reserved for the ill and for funerals. DO refuse a gift three times before accepting to show that you're not greedy. Exchanging gifts with someone of Malay descent: DON'T give alcohol. DON'T give anything made of pigskin, as Malays are Muslim. DO give the gift upon departing, not arriving. DO use your right hand to give or receive presents. If it's large, you may use both. Never use only your left. Exchanging gifts with someone of Indian descent: DON'T give frangipani if you wish to give flowers. They are for funerals. DO use your right hand to give or receive presents and not your left. If it's large, you may use both hands. DON'T give something made of leather to a Hindu. DON'T give alcohol unless you're sure the recipient drinks. 5. Body Gestures

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DON'T touch someone's head. The head is considered sacred. DON'T show the bottoms of your feet or use your feet to point. Feet are considered dirty. DON'T tap your foot. DO cross your legs only by putting one knee over the other. DON'T point at someone with your index finger. DON'T pound your fist into the palm of your hand. DON'T show affection in public. 6. Greetings

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DO greet with a hearty handshake. Shake hands with all who are present. DO give a slight bow for older Chinese people. DO be aware that Malays will not always shake hands. Muslims will not shake hands with the opposite sex. When two women meet they might just bow their heads. DO wait for a woman to initiate a handshake, if you're a man. 7. Visitors Etiquette

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DON'T be late if going to a Malay home for a meal. The meal will be served right away, without drinks or appetizers beforehand. DO expect to be given a small bowl and towel if eating at a Malay home. It's for washing your hands. DON'T stay for more than an hour after the meal ends, if dining with Indians.

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DO bring your hosts a gift. DON'T bring food if invited to a Chinese home. Your hosts may be insulted, as it could be indicating that you don't think they will be good hosts. 8. Business Meeting

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DO expect business to be conducted formally. DO take time to build personal relationships. DO make appointments at least two weeks in advance. You may do this by telephone, fax, email, or in a letter. DON'T schedule appointments during Chinese New Year. DON'T be late. DON'T disagree with someone who has a higher rank than you. DON'T sit until told where to sit. DO be patient throughout negotiations. DO exchange business cards using both hands. DO treat business cards respectfully. When given one, examine it thoroughly before putting it away. Make sure business cards you hand out are in good condition. No rips or tatters. DO be very direct when communicating. 9. Taboos Etiquette

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DO be aware of some serious Singaporean taboos that are punishable by jail or even death. Never litter, chew gum, sell gum, jaywalk, or smoke in public. DON'T discuss religion or politics. DON'T make jokes. The list of etiquette may seem a little intimidating. However, if you are well-mannered, polite, and aware of the actions of those around you, you will be fine. Have a safe and happy trip to Singapore -- and leave that chewing gum at home!

Thai Etiquette Tips Not an expert with chopsticks? Not to worry, if you are traveling to Thailand! Although the Chinese brought chopsticks to Thailand a long time ago, chopsticks are no longer widely used there. Instead, use a fork and spoon, pushing the food into your spoon with the fork. Thailand is a country with many customs and traditions, and many are related to religion, which is why it is so important to be respectful and learn about their etiquette. Below are some more etiquette tips to take with you on your trip to Thailand!
1. Dress Attire

DO dress stylishly and modestly. Keep your attire neat and clean!

DO wear nice pants and a nice shirt with or without a tie, if you are a man attending a business function. For women, wear a nice dress or a skirt and blouse for business functions. Don't wear tank-tops. DON'T wear shorts, short skirts, or tank-tops if you are a woman entering a temple.
2. Table Manners

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DO use a fork and spoon when eating. Chopsticks are no longer traditionally used in Thailand. Hold the spoon in your right hand and push the food into your spoon with the fork. DO leave a little bit of food on your plate when you're done eating to indicate that you are full. DO put your spoon and fork at the 5:25 position when you are done eating. DON'T use your left hand while eating. DON'T snap your fingers or yell to get a waiter's attention when dining out.
3. Tipping

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DO leave a tip in all restaurants. Leave the tip with your change leftover from the bill, or tip 10% at a more upscale restaurant. DO tip a cab driver by rounding up your total fare. DO tip hotel porters 10-20 baht.
4. Gift Giving and Accepting Gifts

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DO give and receive gifts with your right hand, not your left. DON'T open a gift until later. DO give gifts such as liquor, books, or sweets. DO thank the gift giver with a wai.
5. Body Gestures

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DO understand the meaning of the "wai." Wai is when a person puts their hands together close to their body at chest level and gives a slight bow. The higher the hands, the more respectful the wai. It can mean "Hello", "I'm sorry", or "Good-bye." DON'T point with one finger. It's considered impolite. DON'T show affection in public or even touch someone of the opposite sex. DON'T pass something over someone's head. The head is considered sacred in Thailand. DON'T point with your feet or use your feet to touch something. Feet are considered dirty, because they are the lowest part of the body. DON'T talk with your hands or put your hands in your pockets while talking to someone. DON'T step on a threshold when going through a doorway. Step over it instead. Thais believe that a spirit lives in the threshold.
6. Greetings

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DO greet with a wai if you feel comfortable. However, as a foreigner, you aren't expect to initiate with a wai, but you must always return a wai to be polite. DON'T greet children, waiters, vendors, etc. with a wai. If they greet you with a wai, simply smile and nod back at them. DO shake hands if not offered a wai.

7. Visitors Etiquette

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DO bring a gift for your host. A nice host gift would be brandy, flowers, cakes, fruit, etc. DO take your shoes off upon entering a home.
8. Business Meeting

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DO expect men to primarily conduct business, although women are beginning to get more involved in Thailand's business world. DON'T rush negotiations. Business decision-making can be slow in Thailand. DO be subtle. Directness doesn't always go over well. DO expect to be addressed by your title and first name, i.e. Mr. Bob. This isn't to be rude or disrespectful. DO introduce colleagues of a lower professional status before introducing yourself in a formal business introduction.
9. Religious Etiquette

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DO dress conservatively. Women should wear long skirts or pants and covered shoulders. Don't wear sandals. DON'T take photos at a temple. DO remove shoes upon entering. DON'T sit with your feet pointing towards a Buddha. Sit cross-legged or with your feet tucked under you. DON'T touch a monk, give him anything, sit next to him, or sit above him. DON'T touch a Buddha image. They are sacred. Don't climb on top of it, move it, or even sit next to it to pose for a picture. It's disrespectful. Although the above list of etiquette may seem somewhat overwhelming, as a foreigner, you won't be expected to partake in all of their customs. Nevertheless, be conservative in your actions, especially in temples since they are such sacred places. Keep that in mind and have a wonderful trip to Thailand!