22. Table manners used by people from different countries

To start with, I’d like to say that etiquette on the whole and table manners in particular in Belarus are quite similar to these in many European countries. Probably, there’re some peculiarities which are typical only for a certain country, but actually they are insignificant. Generally, table manners in Belarus are just like these that are accepted all over the world. Moreover, as the Belarussians are famous for being very hospitable and tolerant, so in most cases they won’t be offended if foreigners don’t follow some of the national rules just because they are different in theirs. I should also mention that our table manners are not as strict as the Japanese ones, according to which the process of preparing and having meals is rather a ritual than routine. Besides, the Belarussians consider that it isn’t necessary to keep to some of the rules if you are at home or at your friends’ place. For example, you aren’t obliged to use a knife if you can do without it, and it won’t be rude to place one’s elbows on the table. Nevertheless, some basic rules must be always observed. For instance, it is polite not to start eating before everybody is served and not to pick at food trying to grad the biggest piece. Secondly, it is necessary to eat silently without producing any sounds while chewing. And it is very impolite to wipe your plate clean with a slice of bread or to blow on your dish when it is hot. Finally, it would be a good idea to thank the person who has prepared the meal after you finish.

Nevertheless, eating out is another story, especially if it concerns posh restaurants or black-tie parties. Since the situation is far more formal, there’re quite a lot of rules to be complied with. Firstly, it is one should use a napkin, putting it on the lap. Secondly, it is necessary to use the cutlery in the order it is placed on the table. Never reach across the table, but ask someone to pass you what you want, and don’t forget to take the spoon out of your cup when drinking tea or coffee. And after each course the knife and the fork must be laid side by side in the middle of the plate, which shows you’ve finished and the plate can be removed. However, in Germany you can’t do so, instead you have to put them sideways.

In most restaurants, especially good ones, the table may be laid so that candles or flowers are low not to impair the vision, but if they not, you’d better ask the waiter remove them. Besides, you are always provided with another napkin to dab your lips every time before taking a sip of wine. One should also remember that leaving tip for the waiter is preferable in every country, and usually the sum is about ten per cent if the bill.

In conclusion I’d like to say that table manners is a very important part in the culture of any country. That is why whenever you travel abroad it would be a good idea to learn as many etiquette rules, specific for the destination, as possible in order to show respect for another nation.