For anyone who thought drinking was just about going to a bar and getting a drink, you’ll be surprised at how complicated the process can be, depending on which part of the world you’re in. Different countries have very specific traditions that dictate social drinking norms, and ignorance of these traditions might result in a lot of lonely drinking.
- Peru
In Peru, one beer and one glass is shared among friends. The first person pours a shot of beer and downs it before passing the drink on.
- Moldova
Moldovan’s make numerous toasts during dinner, at least one week before every drink. There is even a toast to avoid toasting, “Hai devai!” which means “let’s go”.
- Japan
It is impolite to pour your own drink. Keep your neighbour’s drink topped up and they will return the favour. Drinkers turn away from the group when taking a sip as a sign of respect.
- Russia
In Russia it is common to give long, anecdotal toasts that end with a punch line. Empty bottles and glasses are placed under the table, never on top.
- Ukraine
At Ukrainian weddings brides must keep their feet on the ground lest their shoes be stolen. If a shoe is stolen guests will throw it around the room and drink wine from it.
- Iceland
Icelanders love alcohol so much they dedicate two holidays to it. March 1st is Beer Day but Verslunarmannahelgi in August is the drunkest weekend of the year.
- Holland
The Dutch have adopted the ‘head butt’ method for drinking whiskey. The no-hands process involves bending from the waist to take a sip, before straightening up and chasing with beer.
- Czech Republic
Toasting is a very serious matter in Czech Republic. Make eye contact with those you clink glasses with but don’t cross arms else you’ll be cursed with seven years bad sex!
- Germany
The night before a wedding, groomsmen kidnap the bride-to-be and take her to a bar. The groom must find the group and buy a round of drinks to get his bride back.
- France
The French are dignified drinkers. Ladies are served first, glasses are only ever filled halfway and it’s considered vulgar to pour your own drink.