This document discusses the importance of being aware that gestures can have different meanings in different cultures. Three examples are provided: 1) Smiling in Japan may indicate anger or confusion rather than friendliness. Public displays of affection like hugging or kissing are also unacceptable. 2) A clenched fist against an open palm in China is a polite greeting gesture, not a sign of anger. 3) Showing the soles of your shoes in Thailand is seen as insulting. The key message is that harmless gestures at home could be interpreted as insults abroad, so travelers should learn about appropriate body language in other countries.