271DO’S AND DON’TS
DO’S
Get a Meldezettel (registration form) within three days of
arrival in Austria.
Apply for a drivers licence within six months of arrival if
you plan on being in Austria for a longer period of time.
Arrive exactly on time for social events or business meetings.
Bring a small gift for the hostess, for example flowers,
chocolates or wine.
Greet people you have just been introduced to by shaking
hands. Kissing people on the cheek is reserved for very
close friends.
Greet people when entering a public space, like a store,
with Grüss Gott. Say it loudly, even if you don’t immediately
see anyone.
Use the formal ‘you’, Sie, with people you have just met,
especially with those who are older than you or if you
meet someone in a formal setting.
Be aware of people’s professional and academic titles.
Round up your bill at a restaurant, adding up to but not
necessarily a 10 per cent tip.
Dress conservatively and elegantly. Always dress up if you
are going to the Opera House, the Musikverein or any other
theatre. Most balls require tuxedos and long evening gowns.
Offer to remove your shoes upon entering someone’s
home. Sometimes slippers will be provided for you.
Bring your own bags to the supermarket. Reload your
groceries into the cart after they have been scanned and
bag them yourself at the bagging counter.
Be at home to let in the chimney sweep when he is
scheduled to be in your neighbourhood.
Travel to the different regions of Austria because they are
all so unique.
DON’TS
Participate in loud or rowdy behaviour in public, whether
on the streets, in restaurants or on public transportation.