What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Pacific Harbour?
We asked people in Pacific Harbour if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"When visiting Pacific Harbour, it's important to respect the local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, especially when visiting villages or religious sites. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, and it's considered disrespectful for anyone to wear hats or touch another person's head. Always ask for permission before taking photographs, especially in villages or of people. It's considered rude to take photos without consent. When visiting a village, it's customary to present a gift, known as a 'sevusevu', to the village chief. This is usually a bundle of kava root, a traditional Fijian drink. Avoid walking through villages during the evening prayer time, known as 'lotu'. This is a sacred time for Fijians and should be respected. Do not step over food, people, or their belongings as it is considered highly disrespectful. Always walk around. Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon, especially in rural areas and villages. It's best to keep affectionate behavior private. Avoid making negative comments about the local food, people, or culture. Fijians are proud of their heritage and such comments can be seen as disrespectful. Remember to always use your right hand when giving or receiving items, as the left hand is considered unclean. Lastly, be patient and respectful. Fijian culture operates on 'Fiji time', which means things often happen at a slower pace than what you may be used to," said a member in Pacific Harbour, Fiji.
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Traveling Mailbox serves thousands of travelers, expats, digital nomads, businesses, individuals and others in over 47 Countries by scanning their postal mail so they can view it online anywhere in the world. They provide customer service 7 days a week so if you need assistance, it is just a phone call away. Traveling Mailbox works with Evernote, Bill.com and Dropbox. And, there are Traveling Mailbox apps available for iOS and Android devices.
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- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Pacific Harbour?
If you live in Pacific Harbour, newcomers to Pacific Harbour would love to hear your answer to this question.