Excerpted from the Austria Career Guide
Austrians greet each other with lots of handshaking, even with children. Close friends may often kiss on the cheek when greeting and departing. Women are shown deference by men in
Austria . If a woman extends her hand, an Austrian man may raise it to his mouth, but will not actually kiss it.
Austrians value their privacy, and it is rare for someone to be invited
to an Austrians home early in a relationship. It is also impolite to drop
in on a friend uninvited. If invited to a home in Austria, one should always
arrive on time and shake the host's hand. Women may kiss on the check three
times, alternating cheeks. Upon arrival, a small, nicely wrapped gift of
living flowers or candy is appreciated. If giving flowers, remember to give an
odd number; an even number is considered unlucky. Also, avoid roses and
carnations, which signify romance and funerals, respectively. Gifts are
given to the woman, never the man.
This is just a sample of what you'll find in the complete Austria guide.
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