escargot
Disciple of Marduk
- Joined
- Aug 24, 2001
- Messages
- 43,523
- Location
- HM The Tower of London
There was a TV advert on this theme, showing how gestures such as thumbs-up have offensive meanings in different cultures.I'd suggest that many travellers do a bit of research on customs and laws before going to any foreign country, especially the more 'problematic' ones. She may've overlooked cannabis oil if she uses it regularly elsewhere but you'd have thought she'd have double-checked everything. Considering Russia's usual reputation for finding any cause for arrest.
Sitting with your feet up and showing the soles of your feet or shoes is offensive in Arab, Muslim, Hindu, and Buddhist areas. The ad showed a mother shielding her child's eyes from the sight of a western traveller doing this.
Can't find it now, sadly, but it was an eye-opener for me.
Having never been abroad back then, I resolved to keep my hands firmly in my pockets should I ever travel.
As you say, a little foresight goes a long way.