I plan to be guest of a family I have never met in South Africa. I know they drink wine at dinner, but I can't stand the stuff. I've tried drinking it without grimmacing but can't. Is it an insult to bring something non-alcoholic to use and share (a favorite bottle of sparkling cider in my luggage) or even just request water at the table? We're all Caucasian, if there's a cultural difference there.
2007-02-10 03:20:46 · 6 answers · asked by lucy_ritter 3 in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
i think you should explain your situation to them
im sure they will understand
2007-02-10 03:35:03 · answer #1 · answered by A 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
South Africans are incredibly friendly hosts and as such won't take any offence whatsoever if you politely refuse something, but would also go out of their way to make people feel at home, so I'd suggest you let them know in advance that you don't drink wine and say you'll bring something else instead.....but why not ask if you can bring something they might enjoy too?
2007-02-10 04:07:00 · answer #2 · answered by stepfordswiss 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
When they offer you a glass of wine, just say "no thank you" and request an alternative beverage instead. If they ask, just explain that you would rather not have wine with your meal. Any proper host should not be offended by these responses.
2007-02-10 05:09:21 · answer #3 · answered by bpbjess 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You're the guest, THEY should be worrying about offending YOU! There is nothing wrong with avoiding alcohol or just the wine, if you don't like it.
2007-02-10 05:29:28 · answer #4 · answered by barefoot_always 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Inform them ahead of time that you do not drink wine. If they are gracious, they will concede without any fuss.
2007-02-10 03:38:52 · answer #5 · answered by tranquil 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Just say, "No, thank you". No explanation needed. Polite hosts never force anything on their guests.
2007-02-10 03:39:41 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 3⤊ 0⤋