Even though drinking has long been associated with parties and celebrations, many cultures view alcohol as a crucial part of socializing. But did you know that in addition to the many sorts of alcohol, several nations around the world also have odd traditions?
If reading this has piqued your interest, you should absolutely be aware of some of the weirdest drinking traditions from around the world.
Germany: kidnapping the future bride
The groom’s best man is given the honor of pretending to kidnap the bride-to-be while dropping hints for the groom as part of a widespread German ritual of pre-wedding drinking. According to this custom, the bride-to-be and her abductor may indulge in alcohol until the bride’s rescue and the bill are paid by the groom. These days, villages tend to use this practice more frequently.
Ukraine: Take a sip from the bride’s shoe.
You may see for yourself that it is customary in Ukraine to take one of the bride’s shoes if you ever get the chance to attend a traditional wedding there. Because of this, it is expected of brides to keep their feet on the ground to prevent shoe theft. A visitor is allowed to make any demands if he is successful in completing this task. Additionally, it happens frequently to force the wedding party to sip wine from the bride’s stolen shoe.
Don’t worry, nobody actually drinks from the shoes themselves. I know you must be thinking that the entire procedure will be disgusting. In reality, the guests will have fun with a glass that is linked to the shoe!
Czech Republic – keeping the gaze
The Czechs are highly serious about their drinking habits. You must be cautious when clinking glasses when taking pleasure in drinking here. No of the size of the gathering, people in the Czech Republic raise a glass to each and every person seated at the table. Additionally, if they fail to make direct eye contact, it is viewed as a negative omen.
Folklore in the Czech Republic claims that breaking the nation’s drinking laws could lead to seven years of horrible sex! To prevent this, you must make sure that no one in your group crosses your arms when you clink glasses during toasting, and you must also watch that no liquid spills from your glass.
But there is a silver lining. This ceremony is carried out as per their custom for the first drink of the evening.
Georgia: numerous toasts
Georgian drinking habits are peculiar in that they place a lot of emphasis on toasting. Georgians are happy to salute anybody and anything, including friends, family, pets, and even fruits. Someone in the group assumes the position of Tamada, the toastmaster who will continue to make brief statements throughout the evening. Tamada, who leads the group at the table according to their traditions, proposes a toast and then delivers a long, passionate speech afterward.
But take note that they believe that toasting with anything other than wine or brandy brings ill luck. Additionally, it is considered disrespectful to the object of the toast to raise a toast with any other beverage, making the entire gesture an anti-toast.
Also, Read 11 Amazing Unusual Vacation Locations In Europe
Thailand: no bottoms up
To finish your drink is considered impolite in Thai society. As a result, it is anticipated that everyone always has a glass that is at least half filled. This does not, however, imply that drinking in Thailand is not for the timid. However, there is a catch: you are only permitted to finish that drink once the oldest member at the table has left. But in Thailand, do you ask everyone’s age before you sit down for a drink? There is no surefire way to do this, so you will just have to experience it and tell others about it.
Tanzania: wine with cow’s blood added
Tanzania’s Masaai warrior tribe may be out of reach for the average traveler to interact with. If you are fortunate enough to meet them, there are a few things you should know. The preferred beverage of Masaai warriors is honey mead or honey wine, which they combine with cow’s blood. This implies that after an arrow wounds a cow, the wine is then blended with the blood that leaks out. The cow is then cared for and permitted to survive after that. Be aware that only rare occasions should be celebrated with this beverage.
Russia: No empty glass
A typical Russian is said to consume 15 liters of pure alcohol annually! It is renowned for having one of the world’s highest alcohol dependence rates in addition to having a pretty unique drinking custom. One is supposed to drop their empty glass on the floor beneath your table once they finish the drink since according to their customs, an empty glass shouldn’t be seen on the table as they consider it terrible if empty vessels are left hanging around.
