Albanian society places great emphasis on hospitality, and visitors are often treated with warmth and generosity. It's customary for Albanians to offer food or drink to guests, and refusing this hospitality may be considered impolite. When visiting someone's home, bring a small gift such as flowers, chocolates, or a bottle of wine. Shoes are often removed before entering a home, so observe and follow your host's practice.
Respect for elders and family is deeply rooted in Albanian culture. Handshakes are the typical greeting among men, while kisses on the cheek are common between women and among close friends or family.
One unique aspect of Albanian communication is their use of head movements to express agreement or disagreement. Nodding the head up and down often means "no", while moving the head from side to side can mean "yes", which can be confusing for visitors. Observing the context and listening carefully can help avoid misunderstandings.
In daily interactions, Albanians appreciate politeness and friendliness. Saying "Faleminderit" (thank you) and "Ju lutem" (please) goes a long way in creating positive impressions.
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