Manners in Kazakhstan
Learn about cultural etiquette and manners of this country
Greetings
- Handshake
- Placing right hand on chest with slight bow
- Light kiss on cheek (relatives/close friends)
Etiquette
- Guests are customarily welcomed with warm tea and sweets
- Stand up to greet elders
- Remove shoes indoors and wear slippers
- Enter yurts or homes with the right foot first
- If bread is dropped, pick it up, kiss it, and touch it to your forehead
- Pointing with the left hand or foot is disrespectful
- At meals, if offered alcohol, taking at least a sip is polite
- Women should extend their hand first for a handshake
- Filling a glass to the brim signals you want the guest to leave soon
- Always ask permission before taking photos