Customs

Today I was thinking about how confusing some American customs must be for foreigners. I was specifically thinking about those "unspoken rules" that we have.

For example, you know when you go to someone's house? Do you ring the bell or do you knock? Do you knock and then enter? Do you wait for them to come and open the door? Is it okay to ever just walk in? Do you ever go to someone's house unannounced, or do you always call previous to it? I can think of several situations in which I personally have done all of the above.

I think it specifically relates to occassion and how well you know the people.

For example, I would never just pop over unannounced to some people's homes. You know those people whom you know dont like suprises or who you know you might feel interrupted?

However, there are people that I would definately pop in on and do. My neighbors for example...there are times that I knock and then walk in even if they havent invited me in...and there are times that I ring and wait...depends on who is home and what time it is. I dont usually call them before I come over but then again somtimes I do

Here's a nebulous one...what do you do when you are staying with someone? Do you just let yourself in? Do you announce yourself? Do you ring the doorbell? Do you knock?

I suppose this is one of those nuances that differ from culture to culture and one that people only fully understand after they have lived in country for a bit.

Those of you who have traveled...Id love to hear what customs other countries follow in this situation.

Why am I writing about this? I honstely dont know but the idea popped into my head this afternoon and I thought it interesting enough to write about.