May 3, 2015

Dos and Don'ts of Life in Afghanistan

Do...

Learn by observing what Afghans do

Greet people properly (i.e., inquire about health, family, etc.)

Remove your shoes upon entering a home (or by the door)

Greet everyone when entering a room

Sit at the “lower” place, closest to the door

Dress nicely when visiting, and dress modestly at all times

Reciprocate hospitality

Go visiting at Eids and invite people for your Eids if you can

Give guests an opportunity to wash their hands before they eat

Serve tea/meal on a dastarkhan, not directly on the floor

Serve at least 2 or 3 kinds of dishes in a meal, or a variety of sweets with tea

Practice hospitality joyfully, in a way that works for you and your family

Walk your guests to the gate

Learn to laugh at yourself

Don’t...

Blow your nose or pass gas in public, especially not at the table

Stretch out your legs or point your feet at people

Talk or laugh loudly in public (women)

Confront people directly over a problem

Ask about your colleague’s female family members unless you know each other well (men)

Turn away an unexpected guest unless you absolutely have to

Be easily offended by questions/comments about weight, marital status, etc.

Receive guests of the opposite sex if you are alone

Eat in front of people without offering to share

Be so afraid of making mistakes you don’t invite people to your home