Men greeting Men - Men usually shake hands when greeting one another during an initial meeting as well as in formal situations. Hugging and backslapping are common greetings among friends and family members.  Some may exchange kisses on the cheek.

Women greeting Women – Women generally kiss each other, starting with the left cheek and then switching to the right cheek. Some will kiss one cheek, but most kiss two or four or even up 8 times (alternating cheeks).  A handshake is common for initial meetings.

Greetings between Men and Women – If a woman wishes to shake hands with a man, she should extend her hand first.  It is common for men and woman to exchange verbal greetings when first meeting in social situations. It generally not acceptable for women to touch men in public.

Note: Greetings are very important and usually consist of a lengthy exchange of questions regarding your health, the well-being of your family and general pleasantries.  Asking someone a direct question without going through the greeting questions first, is usually considered very rude.