Polish Customs

We usually shake hands when we meet. We say ‘good morning/afternoon/evening’ when we greet each other. We say ‘good bye’ when we part. Young people say ‘cześć = hello, bye’ instead of the above. (Elderly) gentlemen may kiss a woman in the hand. (this habit is now dying out) Family members and friends, especially female, will often kiss each other when they meet. We kiss 3 times on the cheeks, starting with the left one, then the right and then the left again. Younger people and not so close acquaintances will reduce the kissing routine to one kiss only. Men often let women get in first through the door. They may open the door for a woman. If somebody is eating, we wish them ‘Bon appetit – smacznego!’ If somebody wishes you ‘smacznego’ you say ‘thank you – dziękuję’ Please remember that we drive on the right! If you go by an escalator, remember to keep to the right so that people in a hurry could pass you. We don’t smoke in public places. That refers, among others, to public transport stops and stations, as well as vehicles. We don’t drink alcohol in public places. When eating together, we start a meal only after the last person has joined us at a table. When having a meal together we wish each other ‘Bon appetit - smacznego’ and we say ‘thank you’ when we finish. When we board public transport we try to not obstruct the door so as to let others get in too. On public transport we should give up seats to the elderly, the disabled and pregnant women. When parking your car, never use places for the disabled. When addressing a person you don’t know, it is customary to use the words ‘Pan/Pani’ (Madam/Sir) When we enter a shop, library, office etc. we say ‘good morning/afternoon/evening (dzień dobry) ’ and we say ‘good bye (do widzenia)’ when leaving.