Q: What do you do when riding an escalator in Vienna?

A: Stay on the right hand side so people may pass you on the left. There are signs everywhere stating this, and if you don’t listen you will find an annoyed person standing behind you.

Q: When dining in China how should you rest your chopsticks?

A: When not in use, chopsticks should be placed on the rest or horizontally at the side of a dish, not on top of the bowl and never standing up in the rice as this symbolizes death.

Q: How serious is it to carry drugs, even prescription drugs in Indonesia?

A: Drug offenses are a very serious matter in Indonesia. If you need prescription drugs or carry syringes for medical reasons, carry a copy of the prescription. Drug trafficking is punishable by death in Indonesia.

Q: Is it polite to burp after a meal in Japan?

A: Unlike in some other parts of East Asia, it is considered bad manner to burp.

Q: How should you approach a businesswoman in Singapore?

A: Exchange cards with respect (with both hands), and note who the other person is before pocketing the card. In relating to businesswomen, always avoid comments on her appearances, as Asian women tend to be more conservative. Never touch, hug or kiss a person of the opposite sex at a business meeting. This could be misread.

Q: What should you not give as a gift to your host in China?