Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
There are plenty of other ways to greet people in Ethiopia. Multiple kissing on the cheek is also very common
among friends and relatives of either sex. It's also considered polite to kiss babies or young children, even if
you've just met them.
And if you do just stick with a boring old handshake then deference can be shown by supporting the right arm
(near the elbow) with the left hand during shaking. When Ethiopians enter a room they try and shake hands with
everyone (including children). If hands are dirty or wet, limp wrists are offered.
Although women continue to lag behind men economically, they are highly respected in
Ethiopian society. The same can't be said for gays and lesbians. Homosexuality is
severely condemned - traditionally, religiously and legally - and remains a topic of abso-
lute taboo.
