Bizarre Travel Customs Around the World
The Strange, the Surprising, and the Surprisingly Sweet
Travel is full of excitement. New places. New people. New food.
But one thing that can really catch you off guard? Customs.
Some are sweet. Others are just… strange. But they’re all part of the fun.
In fact, sometimes the weirdest customs become the most memorable part of your trip!
Let’s take a global trip together and explore some of the most bizarre travel customs around the world. Buckle up. This is going to be wild.
1. Don’t Tip in Japan (It’s Actually Rude!)
Let’s start in Japan—a place full of precision, politeness, and sushi.
Here’s the twist: tipping is not expected. In fact, it can even be seen as insulting.
Why? Because in Japan, great service is simply part of the job. No extras needed. If you leave money behind, your server might chase you down the street to return it.
Instead of tipping, a warm “arigatou gozaimasu” (thank you very much) goes a long way.
2. The Cheese Rolling Madness – England
Now, let’s head to a green hill in Gloucestershire, England. Every year, people from around the world gather to do one simple thing:
Chase a wheel of cheese down a very steep hill.
Yes, really.
It’s called the Cooper’s Hill Cheese-Rolling and Wake. A large wheel of Double Gloucester cheese is sent flying down the hill. And dozens of people sprint (or tumble) after it.
It’s chaotic. It’s dangerous. And it’s hilarious to watch.
Why do they do it? For tradition. And for cheese. Obviously.
3. Spitting to Show Respect – Maasai Tribe, Kenya
In many places, spitting is seen as gross or rude.
But not in Maasai culture.
Among Kenya’s Maasai people, spitting is a traditional sign of blessing and respect. Elders might spit on their hands before shaking yours. A father might spit on his newborn child to wish them luck.
It’s not about disgust. It’s about love.
Strange? Maybe. But also kind of beautiful.
4. No Toilet Paper? Try Water – Many Countries in Southeast Asia
Let’s talk bathrooms for a second.
If you’re traveling to places like Thailand, Indonesia, or India, don’t expect to see toilet paper. Instead, you’ll often find a “bum gun”—a handheld spray hose—or a small water jug.
The idea is to clean yourself with water, not paper. Locals consider it much more hygienic.
So if you visit, be ready for a splash of culture (literally).
5. Wearing Wedding Rings on the Right Hand – Many European Countries
In the U.S. and many other places, we wear wedding rings on the left hand.
But not everywhere.
In countries like Germany, Norway, Russia, and Colombia, wedding rings are worn on the right hand. Some couples even switch hands when they go from engaged to married.
It’s a small change, but one that can really catch a traveler by surprise.
6. Slurping Is Good – China and Japan
Growing up, you might’ve been told to eat politely. No slurping!
But in China and Japan, slurping noodles is actually a compliment to the chef. It means you’re enjoying the meal.
It’s also practical. Slurping cools down hot noodles and helps you eat them quickly (especially when using chopsticks).
So go ahead—slurp away. It’s music to a ramen chef’s ears.
7. Avoiding Eye Contact – Some African and Asian Cultures
In many Western countries, eye contact shows confidence and respect.
But in countries like Nigeria or South Korea, too much direct eye contact—especially with someone older or in authority—can seem disrespectful.
It’s a cultural difference that can lead to awkward moments if you’re not aware.
Sometimes, looking down is a way to show humility, not disinterest.
8. Throwing Cinnamon on Singles – Denmark
If you’re 25 years old and unmarried in Denmark, watch out.
Your friends might cover you in cinnamon.
This quirky tradition dates back hundreds of years. And while it might sound a little spicy (pun intended), it’s all in good fun. On your 30th birthday? You might get pepper instead.
Danes are famous for their humor. Even if it’s a little messy.
9. Celebrating with the Dead – Mexico
Let’s take a moment to honor something truly unique: Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) in Mexico.
Rather than mourning lost loved ones, families gather to celebrate them. Graves are cleaned. Altars are decorated with flowers, candles, and favorite foods. And people wear colorful skull makeup and costumes.
It’s not spooky. It’s joyful.
It’s about remembering life, not just death.
10. Head Shaking Means “Yes” – Bulgaria
This one can be really confusing for first-time visitors.
In Bulgaria, shaking your head side to side means “yes,” and nodding up and down means “no.”
Wait… what?
Yes. It’s the opposite of what most of us are used to. So if a Bulgarian waiter shakes his head at your order, don’t worry. He’s not saying “no.” He’s just confirming your meal.
You’ll get used to it—eventually.
11. Feet Are Offensive – Thailand
Feet. Most of us don’t think twice about them.
But in Thailand (and many nearby countries), feet are considered the lowest and dirtiest part of the body—both literally and spiritually.
That means no pointing your feet at people. Don’t rest them on chairs. And never, ever touch someone with them.
On the flip side, the head is the most sacred part. So don’t pat someone’s head—even a child’s—without permission.
12. Greeting with the Nose – New Zealand (Māori)
In Māori culture in New Zealand, traditional greetings don’t involve handshakes.
Instead, they use the hongi—a gentle pressing of noses and foreheads together.
It’s a way of sharing breath. Of saying, “We are one.”
It might feel a bit awkward at first, but it’s deeply meaningful. And honestly? It’s kind of beautiful.
13. Saying “No” More Than Once – India
If someone in India says “yes” right away, they really mean it.
But if they hesitate… say “maybe”… or say “no” gently several times—it might still mean no.
It’s a cultural way of avoiding direct refusal. Being too blunt can feel disrespectful. So many people try to soften the “no” as much as possible.
You’ll learn to listen between the lines. It’s all part of the rhythm of Indian hospitality.
14. Birthday Bumps – United Kingdom and Beyond
In parts of the UK and Ireland, birthdays aren’t just for cake and singing.
They’re also for bumps.
The tradition? Your friends grab your arms and legs, then bump you up and down—once for each year of your age.
You can see why people might stop celebrating after a certain age.
15. Whistling Indoors – Russia
Let’s end in Russia, where whistling indoors is a big no-no.
Why? Many Russians believe that whistling inside will blow away your money or good fortune. It’s considered bad luck, and it might get you a few frowns from locals.
Outside? Totally fine. But inside? Best to keep your lips sealed.
What Do All These Customs Have in Common?
They may seem odd. Silly. Backward.
But they all share something important:
They come from love, respect, and community.
Every strange gesture, wild celebration, or curious rule is a reflection of history, values, and people. What feels bizarre to one person might feel completely normal to someone else.
That’s the magic of travel.
It opens our eyes. It stretches our hearts. It teaches us that there’s no single way to live, love, or laugh.
So the next time you’re abroad and faced with a weird tradition, don’t panic.
Smile. Ask questions. Join in.
Because honestly?
The bizarre moments often make the best memories.
Ready to Explore?
Whether it’s spitting as a blessing or chasing cheese down a hill, the world is full of surprises. And now you’re ready to face them all—with curiosity and a sense of humor.
Which of these customs surprised you the most?
Which one would you want to try?
Let’s keep discovering together 🌍✨
The Strange, the Surprising, and the Surprisingly Sweet Travel is full of excitement. New places. New people. New food.But one thing that can really catch you off guard? Customs. Some are sweet. Others are just… strange. But they’re all part of the fun.In fact, sometimes the weirdest customs become the most memorable part of your…
The Strange, the Surprising, and the Surprisingly Sweet Travel is full of excitement. New places. New people. New food.But one thing that can really catch you off guard? Customs. Some are sweet. Others are just… strange. But they’re all part of the fun.In fact, sometimes the weirdest customs become the most memorable part of your…