Is there a polite way to avoid the "kissing cheeks when meeting people" thing? I've lived in Europe for seven years and just moved to Canada where people still do it, even though I can see that some are not comfy with it. Can I make it into a joke, like "I can see you don't want to kiss me either" or is that too rude? I just don't see the point when a handshake or smile will do, but I don't want to be rude either. I'm not Kelly Ripa but it IS cold and flu season!
2006-11-23 12:30:35 · 5 answers · asked by lauras_jewels 2 in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
Actually, you're safer doing the kiss thing than shaking hands during flu season, as far as the spread of germs go.
2006-11-23 18:22:19 · answer #1 · answered by ebonyruffles 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I'm from Canada, and not all that many people still do the air kiss thing....unless you are in Quebec, then it's still running free. The thing is, there should never be lip to skin contact with these, they should just be next to your cheek....or some people press their cheeks together.....so what's the worry? And if you are uncomfortable with this, then just make sure you put your hand out for a handshake before anyone pulls you in for a cheek-to-cheek, and they should get the message that you would prefer a handshake.
2006-11-24 03:16:15 · answer #2 · answered by JQP 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Don't do what you are not comfortable with. My husband is from Eastern Europe so we do the thrice kissing thing amongst family and friends from there.
2006-11-24 02:27:36 · answer #3 · answered by Lydia 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You air kiss besides the cheek,you dont make contact unless its family.
2006-11-23 12:38:41 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
"When in Rome"....
2006-11-23 12:39:21 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋