If you love the world of gifting as much as we do, and you also enjoy learning about the world we live in, you’ll LOVE these interesting global gifting facts. Remember folks, this is part 2 in the series! You can read the first blog by clicking here.
The Irish might refuse your gift, but not in a rude way!
If you’re preparing to give a gift to an Irish loved one, just be aware that they may refuse your gift at first. It’s not meant in a rude way, though! This polite gesture stems from the days of the potato famine; The recipient of the gift would want to ensure the giver can really afford to give the gift they are giving before accepting it, without asking this directly. In the same way, if you are given a gift by an Irish loved one, it shows a sense of humility if you refuse it a few times first.
Red Carnations might hold another meaning in Austria…
If you’re thinking of gifting a red Carnation to your Austrian friend, it’s worth noting that these flowers are the official flower of the Social Democratic Party. We think it’s worth considering your recipients political leanings before going ahead and buying an Austrian friend this flower!
A Sperm Whales Tooth holds a lot of meaning in Fiji
If you ever find yourself in Fiji, you might want to remember that a Sperm Whales tooth (Or a ‘Tabua’ in Fijian) is given to a man’s future in-laws upon asking for permission to marry their daughter. This unique gift is said to symbolise good luck as well as hold supernatural powers. With Sperm Whales threatening extinction, this gift is a status symbol. Often times, a Tabua isn’t bought, but handed down through generations.
In Kenya, spitting on a gift is a good thing
If you were to receive a gift that someone had spat on, you may, at first blush, be a little confused or offended. However, in Kenya the Maasai people spit on a gift before giving it to the recipient as a blessing. It doesn’t stop there either, as they also spit on the head of new-born babies and on their hands before a hand shake.
Going out with a German friend for their birthday? Let them pay
Whilst in many cultures it is common for the birthday person to be treated on their birthday by their loved ones paying, in Germany, the birthday person typically pays. Commonly, it falls on the birthday persons lap to arrange the evenings events and to pay for all of those attending. This is worth remembering if you’re having a birthday in Germany, too! You might want to bring some extra cash!
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