Is the 'V Sign' Abroad Equivalent to Flipping the Bird? 10 Travel Taboo Gestures: The OK Hand Sign Is Obscene in These Countries

When traveling abroad, you might instinctively use hand gestures for photos or communication with locals. However, everyday hand signs that seem harmless can carry negative or even offensive meanings in specific countries or regions! The editorial team at U Travel has compiled a list of 10 travel taboo gestures to help you avoid stepping on cultural landmines—essential knowledge before your next journey.

Travel Taboo Gesture | 1. The V Sign

Many travelers use the 'V sign' in photos—it's cute and symbolizes 'victory' or 'peace.'

However, in the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, a 'V sign' with the palm facing inward (reverse V) is actually an offensive gesture equivalent to flipping the middle finger. Its origins trace back to the medieval Anglo-French wars, where it was used to mock the French.

Travel Taboo Gesture | 2. Thumbs Up

Raising the thumb signifies 'good,' 'approval,' or 'all good' in most Western countries. In Germany and South Korea, it also means the number '1.' However, in parts of Italy, Greece, Iran, Iraq, and Afghanistan, this gesture is equivalent to the offensive middle finger salute—highly disrespectful.

Travel Taboo Gesture | 3. The OK Hand Sign

The OK hand sign generally means 'okay,' 'good,' or 'agreed' in most countries. But in France and Belgium, it signifies 'zero' or 'worthless,' sometimes carrying a mocking tone. In Greece, Turkey, Venezuela, and Brazil, it's considered obscene or offensive. In Mediterranean countries, it's even associated with the 'evil eye.'

Travel Taboo Gesture | 4. Hooking the Index Finger

The gesture of curling the index finger to call someone over is common in many places. However, in the Philippines, this motion is only used to call cats or dogs. Using it toward a person is extremely rude—and could even lead to arrest!

Travel Taboo Gesture | 5. The Rock Sign

The rock sign—curling the thumb, middle, and ring fingers while raising the index and little fingers—is widely recognized as a symbol of rock music.

Yet in Mediterranean and Latin American countries like Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Brazil, this gesture is known as 'Corna,' implying that someone's spouse is unfaithful (i.e., 'cuckold'). It's highly offensive.

Travel Taboo Gesture | 6. The Stop Hand

The 'stop' gesture—raising the palm upward with fingers spread—is often used to signal 'halt' or as a friendly greeting. However, this seemingly harmless gesture is deeply offensive in Greece. Its roots trace back to the Byzantine Empire, where criminals had feces or mud smeared on their faces as humiliation. Thus, showing an open palm to someone in Greece symbolizes smearing filth on their face—carrying strong aggression or contempt.

Travel Taboo Gesture | 7. The Lucky Gesture

Crossing the index and middle fingers is a 'lucky gesture' in Western countries, symbolizing hope for good fortune or success—often used when saying, 'I hope I pass the exam.'

However, in Vietnam, this gesture suggests female genitalia and is equally offensive.

Travel Taboo Gesture | 8. Using the Left Hand

In Hong Kong, using either hand carries no special meaning. But in parts of the Middle East, India, and Africa, the left hand is considered unclean, traditionally used for bathroom hygiene.

Therefore, avoid using your left hand to pass items, food, or to shake hands in these regions—doing so may be seen as disrespectful.

Travel Taboo Gesture | 9. The Wai (Praying Hands)

The 'wai'—palms pressed together—is a common greeting in Thailand. The height of the hands varies by the recipient's age or status, with higher hands showing greater respect.

However, note that this gesture is primarily reserved for elders. Performing a wai with a bow toward peers or juniors is said to imply a curse—wishing them an early death. When greeting peers or younger people, simply press your hands together at chest level with a smile—no bow needed.

Travel Taboo Gesture | 10. Touching the Head

In Buddhist countries like Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia, touching someone's head is considered extremely rude and offensive. The head is believed to be the most sacred part of the body—the dwelling place of the soul. Touching it is thought to drive the soul away or bring bad luck. Even children's heads should never be touched casually.

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Article and images republished with permission from U Lifestyle (Original title: 10 Travel Taboo Gestures: Avoid V and OK Signs! Be Careful with the Wai in Thailand—Thumbs Up Equals Middle Finger Here!)

Responsible Editor: Wei Fu-Cheng