When visiting Ukraine, there are a few simple rules of etiquette that may be useful-if invited into a family home, it is traditional to bring a gift. A bottle of wine, a cake, or a bouquet of flowers are customary. If there is a child in the house, it is appropriate to provide him/her with a small gift. If you bring flowers, make sure the number of flowers is uneven. Do not shake hands across the thresh old of a door. It is considered bad luck. When shaking hands, take off your gloves. Be prepared to remove your shoes upon entering a home. To keep apartments clean, most hosts will provide you with a pair of slippers. - On public transportation, give up your seat to mothers with children, the elderly, or the infirm. At the entrance of upscale restaurants, expect that your coat, briefcase, or baggage will be checked. Be sure to have business cards printed in Ukrainian/Russian on one side and English on the other. When eating dinner at someone's home, casual dress is accepted. Be ready to give toasts at dinner, for guests are often asked to do so. Offer to share your snacks and cigarettes with those around you. - Be prepared to accept all food and drink offered you when visiting friends. Ukrainians are known for their generosity when it comes to feeding others. Turning down food may be considered rude. For business, dress should be conservative. Men should not take off their jackets unless asked. In Orthodox churches women wear scarfs or hats, and men take off their hats. Be careful when complimenting a host's belongings, they may offer it to you
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