Unique Gift Giving Traditions

In the United States, pretty much anything goes as a gift, from jewelry to clothes to cash. But, in the spirit of this gift-giving season, let’s take a look at the rules of gifts in other countries around the world.

1. In China, giving a clock, handkerchief, straw sandals or flowers shows ill intent because these items are associated with death and funerals.

2. In Tibet, individuals only give gifts of money in odd amounts.

3. Likewise, in Russia, one should never give an even number of flowers; this is only for funerals. Also, be careful of the type of flowers given: yellow signifies deceit or a wish to end a relationship. Red carnations are only for placing on the graves of the dead or given to veterans.

4. Don’t give a kitchen knife set or scissors as a gift to someone in the Netherlands. Giving sharp or pointy objects as gifts is considered unlucky.

5. In Samoa, mats are the most precious gift to give.

6. In Zambia, a boy is given a spear as a coming-of-age gift, to signify his responsibility to defend and provide for his family.

7. Guatemalan children often receive capiruchos, a form of toy, for Christmas.

8. Out of economic necessity, giving inexpensive wooden cars as a holiday gift among people on the north coast of Colombia has since become a modern family tradition.

9. In Ecuador, babies receive hand-beaded bracelets passed down from their family members. These bracelets are worn in order to ward off evil spirits.

10. Children in Tabaco, Philippines traditionally receive cash for Christmas, given in red envelopes called ang pao, a tradition derived from the Chinese.

https://www.children.org/archive/2014/dec/12-traditional-gifts--holiday-giving-around-the-world

http://www.readersdigest.ca/travel/travel-tips/13-unusual-international-customs-you-never-knew-existed/9/

http://www.openculture.com/2012/12/gift_giving_traditions_around_the_world.html