Same, same but different

Although Canadians are also Westerners, their culture is different. Here, slightly different rules apply. For example, shaking hands with a shy expression is accepted and classified as a European. If you want to greet a lady with three cheek kisses, you could be knocked down by her with bear spray. If you're standing in line at the Canadian 'Migros' checkout, don't expect not to be addressed. Guaranteed, some Elizabeth behind you will tell you about her new refrigerator. In this situation, the Swiss would rather wait persistently and silently, without seeking eye contact, irritated until it's their turn.

We accept our seemingly arbitrarily invented cultural peculiarities as a God-given law. Three kisses for greeting is clear. Why don't we greet each other by sticking our finger in each other's nostrils? Traditions give us stability and security in a chaotic world. And yet it is important that each individual determines for themselves whether they want to live certain traditions. Because certain norm-al behaviors are neither functional nor contemporary. For example, a 'real woman' remains a woman who has decided to remain child-free.

When it comes to harmless traditions, it simply doesn't make sense to compare them with 'so-in-Switzerland'. It's better to integrate by having poutine (a Canadian specialty with fries soaked in gravy and topped with cheese), watching hockey (a religion), and shutting the fuck up.