Culture Shock In the Indian sub continent, public display of affection is a strict ‘no – no’. Topics such as alcohol, emancipation of women, abortion, religion, political issues and man-woman relationships are a big no no and best left out of conversation, particularly in the Arab countries. Do not point with your finger in China, Taiwan or Japan or sit with your leg crossed and foot pointing forward in Thailand; never ask any personal questions - or probe into personal lives- in Japan; it’s considered bad manners to do so.