One thing that we Americans are not known for is knowing much about the outside world. Most people commented on Geneva or fondue when I said I was moving to Sweden. Or admitted to having no idea where on the map Sweden is located.
While I am enjoying learning about Sweden. Through my classes I've also been meeting people from all over the world and learning some great stuff, like this:
- There are two teenagers in Mexico City called Onedollarbill and Usnavy. Given names and pronounced with a Spanish accent of course!
- In Catalonia they celebrate Christmas with a pooping peasant figurine (el caganer)
- In 1994 during an election in Mexico the candidate that had already been chosen by the leading party was not in the lead. Since the voting calculations were being televised live that was solved by a simple power outage for a couple of hours. Once the power came back the government declared their man the winner.
- In Venice it is considered a capital sin to serve bad food to your guests. Not really, but you won't be receiving any thanks for the meal.
- Most Japanese don't eat that much sushi. Maybe 1-2x a month.
- When Germans get engaged they wear an engagement ring on the right hand. Right after they get married, the bride and groom have to cut a big piece of wood! There is also a tradition that friends kidnap the bride and ransoming her off to the groom!
