People Are Sharing The “Normal” Customs In Their Countries That Really Surprise Outsiders

2.

“Going to the shops barefoot is common and normal in New Zealand.”

—MrsNeilPHarris

“Not exactly scandalous, but it seems to shock a lot of Americans. We go barefoot a lot. Everywhere. The supermarket, driving, public transport, shops, the doctor’s office, libraries, etc. Some people kick their shoes off at work (if they’re not public-facing or there aren’t rules against it), at school, and more. Yes, we know we could step on glass or dogshit. Yes, we know it’s a bit dangerous for driving. In winter or when visiting, we put on our fancy jandals (or thongs as our weird neighbours call them).

Also, our main highways seem to shock and sometimes kill tourists (and locals) with regularity. Slow down, please. We had to carve those roads into mountainous terrain on a tiny budget; they aren’t interstates.

And I’m not sure if this is weird, but it’s pretty normal to call out ‘thanks’ when getting off public buses or leaving cafes.”

—kaoutanu