The rules of drinking etiquette vary from place to place, with some countries maintaining superstitions around eye contact and crossing your arms. Here’s a list of the drinking dos and don’ts from around the globe.

Maintaining eye contact when clinking glasses is a must in many countries around the world

While meeting a group of friends for a drink may seem like the most simple pastime, different countries around the world all have their own rules when raising a glass.

For instance, did you know that in Germany it is bad luck to break eye contact when clinking glasses with someone? Or that in Spain toasting with a soft drink could have unspeakable consequences?

To mark the recent World Tourism Day, travel consultants eShores rounded up a list of what to do to fit in when drinking your way around the world.

According to the guide, drinkers should always cover their glass with a coaster once finished in the Czech Republic, but should never cross their arms with a fellow drinker. While in Spain, it may be custom to eat when drinking but ordering spirits with a meal is frowned upon.

Click through our gallery to see the top dos and don’ts when drinking around the world. 

France

Do: In France, drinkers should spend time with their libation and drink slowly; it’s also essential to maintain eye contact with a person when toasting.

Don’t: Imbibers should never start drinking until everyone’s glasses are filled, ice should not be added to wine and glasses should only be filled half way.

Iceland

Do: Drinkers stay out late in Iceland, with nights out often starting after midnight, so be sure to pace yourself to fit in with the crowds. Alcoholic drinks can also only be bought in restaurants, bars or the Vínbúðin.

Don’t: Remember to never drink another person’s beer at a house party in Iceland.

Japan

Do: Japanese culture suggests alcohol should always be served with food. Also, imbibers should remember to fill the glass of the person next to them and, when drinking with elders, it is polite to turn your head away when drinking.

Don’t: In Japan it is rude to turn down invitations to drinking sessions with your colleagues and to fill your own glass.

UK

Do: Drinkers in the United Kingdom will always take alcohol with them to parties and should let those who were at the bar before them order first. It is also common to order takeaway (often a kebab) at the end of a night out.

Don’t: When out in the UK and taking it in turns to buy rounds with your friends, it is rude to go home before paying for your round of drinks.

Russia

Do: In Russia you must remember to buy your alcohol from the shop before 10pm, and drinkers must finish their drink after a toast – if not, people may think you disagree with what was said.

Don’t: Drinking in public, other than at bars and restaurants, is a big no in Russia – with a penalty of as much as 1,500 rubles for those caught doing so. Imbibers in the country also see it as rude to lower your glass after a toast.