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When communicating it’s often the case that the Nepalese will tell you what you want to hear (in order to be polite). It’s best to be patient and see what actions follow the communication.
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Often times answer to a question will not be given with a direct “no”, even though that is what the true answer is.
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Conversations are less quiet and restrained than those in western countries and people generally start a conversation by asking personal questions; asking the price of your possession is rude in western countries but it is accepted between strangers here. If you feel embarrassed by this say you don’t know as it was a gift.
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Although you will be asked a lot of personal questions, it is best not to ask these questions yourself until you know the person well.
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The word “no” has harsh implications. Evasive refusals, being polite, are more common. Because of this people may say, “yes” in order to please you but have no intention of doing so; When giving instructions, it is wise to repeat them several times, preferably, step by step and check to see if they have understood.
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Thankfulness is expressed by facial expressions rather than verbal expressions. One should not assume that a person is ungrateful because he/she does not say thank you
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Calling people by names like Dad, Mum, Sister, Brother, Uncle is very common. For example, you say `Amaa' (Mother) or Buba (Dad) to your friend's parents but never call them by their names.
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Never tell a girl you don't know that she is beautiful or compliment on her features. Girls consider it impolite and rude - they think you are flirting with them. Most Nepalese girls don't flirt.
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Use of bad language is not common even among friends. Visitors should avoid using bad language, and remember most city people do understand spoken English.
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People who don't look like the ordinary Nepalese will get lots of looks and even constant staring. Especially when you are away from the main cities like
Kathmandu , you will be noticed constantly by many people including beautiful Nepalese kids whose curious eyes will be all around you.
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Nepalese have strongly defined concept of friendship and hospitality and to be a friend or a guest here in is a less casual matter. The start and growth of relationships with the people depend considerably on the nature and attitude of the volunteer, when someone feels that friendship has been established he is like to assume automatically what are considered the normal privileges of a friend. These include personal favors, extended unannounced visits to your room and looking at your personal belongings.
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