Navigating the treacherous waters of communication across cultures has never been easy. Most of us make blunders at some point in our travels--whether from our own ignorance or via mistaken attempts to be one with the natives. Here at last is a sound and savvy guide to communicating effectively in 45 different countries, whether through body language or by saying a few choice words that will impress your hosts. As a follow-up to the best-selling Behave Yourself, this book is destined to become a much needed companion for business and leisure travelers alike.
This is a fantastic book that offers brief insight in to a host of different cultures. It tells you a little bit about the history and language, but most importantly gives you "safe" topics of discussion, a taste of the sense of humor, and when it's appropriate. It will also tell you a little bit about body language, and gestures that are acceptable, and which ones aren't. There is a "sister"-book, called Behave Yourself, which will be my next purchase...
I still prefer the Culture Shock! series (I have the volumes on Scotland and Japan ... I wish I had more).
This is a nice, small guide ... I could see it coming in handy if you're backpacking (or making quick trips) to a lot of different countries all at once.