Polish culture

When a Polish person invites you to their home, how do you greet them after they open the door?

• greet the host and shake their hand immediately

• wait for the host to invite you in before a handshake

• do not make any physical contact on your first meeting; smile and wave

• step back to allow them to greet you outside of their home before you all come in

When you enter a home you should:

• take off your hat

• take off your shoes

• put your phone in a box/basket

• take off your coat

What is expected in a Polish elevator?

• Everyone greets each other with a quick “Dzień dobry”

• Silence is strictly maintained

• You face the wall, not the door

• Only the oldest person on the elevator may push the buttons

What is considered polite when eating at a Polish home?

• Refusing food once, then accepting after being offered again

• Immediately serving yourself from shared dishes

• Saying "smacznego" (bon appétit) before you eat

• Bringing your own drink unless told otherwise

When is it common for Poles to celebrate name days (“imieniny”)?

• Only on your birthday

• Instead of a birthday

• Only for saints and religious figures

• Only in rural areas

Which gesture might be considered rude in Polish culture?

• Making the peace sign with your fingers

• Keeping hands in your pockets while talking

• Waving with both hands

• Smiling too much

When walking with someone in Poland, which behavior is considered polite?

• Walking ahead to show the way

• Walking side by side, matching pace

• Walking behind the other person as a sign of respect

• Always letting the older person lead the way

What is a common behavior at a store checkout in Poland?

• Making small talk with the cashier

• Packing your bags slowly at the register

• Packing your items quickly after payment

• Putting your cart/shopping basket back

When boarding public transport in Poland, which is true?

• Always enter through the back door

• Push in quickly to get a seat

• Enter through any door, regardless of people exiting

• Let people exit before entering

On public transport, what behavior is expected?

• Small talk with the stranger next to you

• Chatting freely, especially on the phone

• Talking quietly or not at all

• Greeting everyone as they enter