Navigating the world of international etiquette can be a wild ride, especially when it comes to hand gestures. What seems like a harmless wave in one country could land you in hot water in another!

Even the most well-intentioned traveler can accidentally cause offense abroad. So, before you pack your bags and head out on your next adventure, let’s take a look at some common hand gestures that might get you into hot water in foreign lands–because in some places, your "peace sign" might be the peace breaker!

The Thumbs-Up: A Universal No-No?​

In the U.S., a thumbs-up is a classic sign of approval, a way of saying "good job" without saying a word. However, this seemingly harmless gesture can be interpreted very differently around the world. In countries like Nigeria, Greece, and Iran, it can be seen as an obscene gesture, similar to flipping someone off. To avoid an international incident, it's best to keep your thumbs down and avoid any confusion.

The OK Sign: Not OK Everywhere​

Forming a circle with your thumb and index finger to signal "OK" is a common gesture in the U.S. But, in countries like France, Germany, and Brazil, it’s considered rude and vulgar. What’s innocent to you could be downright offensive in these countries. Instead of using your hands, consider using words to avoid offending anyone.

The Peace Sign: Context is Key​

The peace sign has long been associated with goodwill and harmony. But the context in which you use it is important. In the UK, for example, if your palm is facing inward when you flash the V-sign, you're not signaling peace; you're giving someone the British equivalent of the middle finger. So, pay attention to the direction of your palm to avoid sending the wrong message!

Pointing: Rude in Any Language​

Pointing might seem like a universal way to direct attention or give directions, but it’s considered rude in many cultures, particularly in the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. Pointing at people or even objects can be seen as impolite and aggressive. Instead of pointing, try using your whole hand to gesture, or better yet, use words to indicate what you mean.

The Left Hand: The Wrong Hand in Many Cultures​

In several countries, especially in the Middle East, the left hand is associated with personal hygiene and is considered unclean. Using your left hand for eating, giving, or greeting others can be a serious faux pas. While this may seem odd to those of us in the U.S., respecting this cultural norm can help avoid offense.

The Moutza: A Greek No-Go​

If you find yourself in Greece, be mindful not to extend an open hand toward someone’s face. This gesture, called the moutza, is one of the most offensive things you can do. It signifies extreme disrespect and dismissal. Instead, stick to friendly waves or handshakes when interacting with locals.

Crossing Fingers: Not Always Lucky​

In the U.S., crossing your fingers is a popular gesture to wish for good luck. However, in Vietnam, crossing your fingers is seen as an obscene gesture. To avoid confusion, it's best to keep your fingers uncrossed and rely on optimism rather than gestures to bring you good fortune in this part of the world.



The takeaway here is simple: Hand gestures are not universal. What’s harmless in one culture can be highly offensive in another. By being mindful of local customs and hand gestures, you can ensure that your international travels are respectful and enjoyable.

Have you ever been in a situation where you accidentally offended someone with a misunderstood gesture? Share your story in the comments below—we’d love to hear about your experiences! Remember, travel is about learning and understanding new cultures, and sometimes that means discovering that not all gestures are created equal.