Anständigt uppförande för besökaren

Min första tjänsteresa som internationell byråkrat står för dörren. När resebokning till exotiska Stockholm är bokad kommer automatiskt ett mejl med reserekommendationer för landet. Säkerhetsläget, terroristrisk, brottslighet, rättssystem, trafiksäkerhet, sjukvårdssystem osv. Mest intressant var ändå kulturtipsen. Nu gäller det att uppföra sig: Av med skorna! Fram med spriten! Skål!

General Cultural Tips



• The customary greeting in Sweden is the handshake.
• Introductions are often made by a third party in Sweden; wait to see if your host is going to introduce you before introducing yourself to a stranger.
• Swedes are generally nonconfrontational and try to avoid arguments.
• When invited to a Swedish home, it is appropriate to bring flowers for the hostess. Liquor is also an appreciated gift.
• You may be required to remove your shoes when entering a home - follow the example of your host.
• The Swedes use gestures sparingly and speak more softly than what is standard in North America. Modulate both your body language and the volume of your voice accordingly.
• Dinner or parties in a Swedish home may be somewhat formal. Place cards may indicate seating arrangements; if they are not present, avoid sitting down until you know whether your host has a prearranged seating plan in mind. The toast in Sweden is an extremely formal ritual. If you are present for a toast, avoid touching your drink until your host says "skoal".