Meeting Etiquette

• Shake Hands, smile, and maintain direct eye contact during the greeting.
• Wait to be invited before using someone's first name.
• At small social gatherings, your hosts will introduce you to the other guests.
• Say goodbye to each person individually when leaving.

Gift Giving Etiquette

• Gift giving is not an elaborate event.
• If invited to a Cypriot's house, bring a consumable gift such as pastries.
• Do not give white lilies as they are used at funerals.
• Gifts are not opened when received.

In-House Etiquette

If you are invided to a Cypriot's house:

• Shake hands with everyone when arriving and leaving.
• Dress casually but well.
• Offer to help the hostess with preparation or clearing up after a meal is served.
• Complement the house.
• Refusing an offer to drink Greek coffee is considered impolite.

Table Manners

• Table manners are Continental.
• Remain standing until invited to sit down.
• The oldest person and guest of honour are generally served first.
• Do not begin eating until the hostess starts.
• Expect to be offered second and even third helpings.
• If you have not finished eating, cross your knife and fork on your plate with the fork over the knife.
• Indicate you have finished eating by laying your knife and fork parallel across the right side of your plate.