Local Customs & Etiquette in Öskemen, East Kazakhstan, Kazakhstan

All Topics about Öskemen All Cities in Kazakhstan

1. Öskemen Banylaq (Greeting)

A traditional Kazakh handshake, involving a light tap on the left shoulders. Shows respect and friendly intentions.

Cultural Significance: Understanding this greeting demonstrates sensitivity to local customs.
Gender-neutral: Unlike some greetings, it's used universally among all individuals regardless of gender.
Contextual: Knowing when and with whom to use this greeting is key to avoiding misunderstandings.

Public spaces are for everyone, but littering or causing a disturbance is considered disrespectful.

Cleanliness: Always dispose of waste properly to show respect for the city.
Quiet Hours: Respect quiet hours in residential areas to avoid disturbing locals.
Shared Resources: Use shared public resources thoughtfully and considerately.

Using the right hand for eating is customary. Wait to be invited before helping yourself to food.

Hand Usage: Knowing when and how to use your hands in dining situations.
Invitation Customs: Understanding the importance of being invited before partaking in a meal.
Table Manners: Following proper table manners shows respect for your host and their culture.

Tea time is an opportunity to socialize. Pouring tea for others demonstrates hospitality.

Hospitality: Pouring tea for others shows kindness and friendliness.
Patience: Be patient during tea time conversations, as they may be lengthy and meaningful.
Tea Preparation: Learning about local tea varieties and their preparation methods enhances the experience.

Gifts are given on special occasions. Small, thoughtful gifts are appreciated.

Special Occasions: Gifts are given only during specific events like weddings or birthdays.
Thoughtfulness: Choosing a gift that shows thought and consideration is essential.
Reciprocity: Be prepared to receive a reciprocal gift if you give one, as it's part of the local tradition.

Bargaining is expected in bazaars. Be respectful and flexible during negotiations.

Bargaining Culture: Knowing when to bargain and how far you can push prices.
Patience: Patience is key, as negotiations may take some time.
Respectful Negotiations: Negotiating respectfully and fairly shows goodwill towards the seller.

A traditional dwelling of nomadic Kazakhs. Removing shoes before entering is customary.

Cleanliness: Leaving your shoes outside keeps the yurt clean.
Respect for Culture: Following local customs when visiting a yurt demonstrates cultural sensitivity.
Community Gathering Space: Yurts are not just homes; they serve as community gathering spaces too.

Participating in local holidays and festivals is a great way to immerse yourself in the culture.

Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in the local culture by participating in their holidays.
Respectful Participation: Understanding the significance of each holiday and participating respectfully.
Community Bonding: Holidays often bring the community together, fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie.

Rounding up or giving small tips is customary in taxis and other services.

Customary Tips: Giving a tip, even if it's just a little extra, shows appreciation for good service.
Appropriate Amount: The amount of the tip should be reasonable and appropriate, not excessive.
Gratitude: Expressing gratitude in addition to giving a tip can go a long way.

Modest dress is required when visiting religious sites. Covering your head as a woman is customary.

Respectful Dress: Dressing modestly shows respect for the religious site and its followers.
Local Customs: Following local customs, such as covering your head, demonstrates cultural sensitivity.
Covering Apparel: Wearing appropriate clothing that covers the arms and legs is essential.

Some gestures and body language that are acceptable in other cultures may be considered rude or offensive here.

Avoid Offensive Gestures: Be aware of potentially offensive gestures and avoid using them.
Cultural Sensitivity: Adapting your body language to local customs shows cultural sensitivity.
Patience: Be patient and observant, learning the appropriate gestures over time.

Knowing a few basic phrases in Kazakh can make daily life easier and help build relationships.

Language Learning: Learning a few basic phrases shows an interest in the local culture.
Building Relationships: Using Kazakh phrases can help build relationships and foster goodwill.
Cultural Immersion: Immersing yourself in the language helps you understand and appreciate the culture more deeply.

Giving up your seat for the elderly, women with children, or those in need is customary.

Respect and Kindness: Offering your seat demonstrates respect and kindness towards others.
Courtesy: Being courteous and considerate of others makes for a more enjoyable public transport experience.
Awareness of Surroundings: Remaining aware of your surroundings and those around you is essential.

Being a good guest involves showing appreciation for your host's hospitality.

Appreciation: Expressing gratitude for your host's hospitality is essential.
Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding and respecting local customs during your stay demonstrates sensitivity.
Respectful Engagement: Engaging with your host in a respectful, considerate manner enhances the guest experience.

Toasting is an important part of social gatherings. Raising your glass horizontally to the person you're toasting shows respect.

Respectful Gestures: Raising your glass horizontally demonstrates respect during a toast.
Toast Timing: Timing your toast appropriately, such as waiting for everyone to have their drinks, is essential.
Sharing Personal Stories: Sharing personal stories during a toast can help build relationships and foster camaraderie.