What Kind of Gestures or Facial Expressions Should You Avoid in Other Countries?

The Middle East

• A time-honored way of expressing approval for something in the Western world is the "thumbs up" gesture. In the Middle East, however, this gesture takes on the opposite meaning and is used as a strong signal for causing offense. In some parts of the Middle East, where sharia law is more strictly adhered to, greeting a member of the opposite sex in public is also considered culturally insensitive.
  
  

Asia

• In Asia, notions of respect and honor are held in high regard. In Japan and the Philippines, avoid using the beckoning gesture with your index finger used in the West, as it may cause deep offense to your intended party. In the majority of Asian countries, avoid pointing directly at people with your index finger, as it is considered demeaning and offensive. In Japan and South Korea, never blow your nose in public or wink at a member of the opposite sex.
  
  

Europe

• In the United Kingdom, the universal "V" sign for peace, expressed with the middle and forefinger, is acceptable as long as the palm of the hand is facing away from the body. If the palm of the hand is facing towards the body, it will be considered deeply offensive. Stating that everything is OK by making a circle with the thumb and forefinger should be avoided in Germany and Mediterranean countries, as it may cause insult.
  
  

Latin/ South America

• As in Germany and Mediterranean nations, the gesture signifying "OK" should always be avoided, and as in Middle Eastern countries, the thumbs up gesture has the potential to cause great offense.
  
  

Africa

• As in the Middle East, the most offensive gesture that can be made is the thumbs up. In some parts of Africa, specifically in the West, it takes on an opposite meaning, expressing strong disdain or disappointment, as is showing the sole of your shoe.