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Flower Market in Luxembourg City

What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Luxembourg?

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Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

We asked people in Luxembourg 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 the cultural norms in Luxembourg to avoid making any cultural faux pas. For example, it is considered impolite to be late for social engagements, so it is important to arrive on time. Additionally, it is important to dress appropriately for social occasions, as dressing too casually may be seen as disrespectful. It is also important to be aware of the local language, as many Luxembourgers speak multiple languages and may be offended if you do not make an effort to communicate in their language. Finally, it is important to be respectful of the local customs and traditions, as they are an important part of the culture," said another expat in Luxembourg.

"I think the most humorous blunders for the whole family have been because of translation and mispronunciations issues. With 4 languages it can get quite confusing. We've had a few conversations where we thought we were talking about air and hair and the function of our radiator when it turned out to really be horses but the English mispronunciation back to us was "whores". Between the 4 languages, air, hair, horse and whores can all sound very similar and when ever so slightly used incorrectly can erupt a room into laughter. We can hardly talk about hair and horses anymore without busting up with laughter every time. On a recent visit to Germany I wanted to practice a couple phrases I learned, to order our favorite lunch. I got to the counter and successfully made the order but at the end one of my kids changed their minds but I hadn't practiced the new choice. I must have looked so lost because the lady spoke up, in English, and asked if she had heard my child correctly and this would be the final order. I was shocked, assuming she didn't know English and confirmed the order. When I asked about her English she said, "oh yes I speak a lot of English but I thought you wanted to practice your German so I just let you"!! *blush*," wrote a member who made the move to Luxembourg City, Luxembourg.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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Other Questions:

What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Luxembourg?

If you live in Luxembourg, newcomers to Luxembourg would love to hear your answer to this question.

If your answer relates to a specific city or town in Luxembourg, please include the name of the city/town below:


About the Author

Joshua Wood 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.

Flower Market in Luxembourg City

William Russell
William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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William RussellWilliam Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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