What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Kazakhstan?
We asked people in Kazakhstan 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!...
"It is important to be aware of cultural differences when visiting Kazakhstan. It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions, and to dress modestly. Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics, religion, and the Soviet Union. It is also important to avoid making negative comments about Kazakhstan or its people. Additionally, it is important to avoid touching someone without their permission, and to avoid public displays of affection. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local etiquette when it comes to dining, such as waiting to be invited to eat before starting, and not leaving food on your plate," commented one expat who made the move to Kazakhstan.
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"I think my humorous blunders are usually related to me using charades in my endevours to communicate. For instance, asking for chicken breast fillets and leather bags can be embarrassing to say the least," remarked another expat in Semey, Kazakhstan.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Kazakhstan?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Kazakhstan?
- Will I be able to find a job in Kazakhstan?
- What is life like in Kazakhstan?
- What do expats in Kazakhstan appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Kazakhstan?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Kazakhstan accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Kazakhstan like?
- What are healthcare services like in Kazakhstan?
- What are medical services in Kazakhstan like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Kazakhstan?
- What are emergency services like in Kazakhstan?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Kazakhstan?
- How are local medical facilities in Kazakhstan?
- As a foreigner living in Kazakhstan, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- 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 Kazakhstan?
If you live in Kazakhstan, newcomers to Kazakhstan would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.