How to Greet People in 20 Countries
The Lucy Team
We're the team behind Ask Lucy — travellers, food lovers, and language enthusiasts building an AI companion that helps you explore the world with confidence.
Why Getting the Greeting Right Matters
Your greeting is the first impression you make. Get it right and people warm to you immediately. Get it wrong and you start on the back foot. The good news: people everywhere appreciate the effort, even if your execution is imperfect.
Greetings Around the World
Japan: Bow. Slight bow for casual, deeper for formal. No handshake unless offered.
France: Two cheek kisses ("la bise") for friends. Handshake for first meetings. Say "Bonjour."
Italy: Two cheek kisses for acquaintances. Handshake for strangers. Say "Buongiorno."
Thailand: The "wai" — press palms together at chest level and bow slightly. Say "Sawasdee."
India: "Namaste" with palms pressed together. Handshakes are also acceptable in business contexts.
Morocco: Handshake, sometimes followed by touching your heart. Between friends, cheek kisses.
Brazil: One cheek kiss (sometimes two or three depending on region). Hugs between friends are common.
Germany: Firm handshake with eye contact. First names are not used until invited. Say "Guten Tag."
South Korea: Slight bow with a handshake. The younger person bows first and more deeply.
Turkey: Handshake. Between friends, cheek kisses. Say "Merhaba."
When You Are Not Sure
Watch what locals do and follow their lead. A smile is universal. Lucy can teach you the correct greeting phrase for any country before you arrive.