9 GRADE, TERM II

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Advice for UK Business Travelers. Giving gifts.

Unlike the UK, gift­giving is very important in Japan and it usually happens at the end of a visit. Pens are a good idea or something not available in Japan. If you give flowers, avoid giving four or nine flowers as these are unlucky numbers.

Chinese people will probably refuse your gift several times, but it is polite to continue offering it to them. Do not give clocks to Chinese people as the Chinese word for ‘clock’ is similar to the word for ‘death’.

Give gifts of highest quality leather, silver, or crystals to people from Middle East. Remember to avoid alcohol and leather from pigs.

Gift­giving is less formal in South America but still an important part of the culture. Avoid leather, as many of the world’s best leather products come from South America.

Gift­giving in Australia, Canada, USA and Europe is informal and not always expected. However, it is polite to bring someone flowers, chocolate or wine when visiting their house. In some European countries, you should avoid red flowers (associated with romance)

Match unexpected presents to the places.

1. four or nine flowers

2. clocks

3. alcohol

4. leather things

5. red flowers

6. pig leather things

A. Europe

B. Middle east

C. South america

D. Japan

E. China

Match the words to their opposites.

1. generous

2. cheerful

3. outgoing

4. friendly

5. quiet

6. polite

A. sad

B. unfriendly

C. talkative

D. mean

E. reserved

F. rude