Culture Shock! Austria - A Survival Guide to Customs and Etiquette

Socialising with the Austrians 71

fruit juice is also popular. Appetizers will sometimes be
served, but they are an exception.
Before beginning to eat, a toast of ‘Prost, zum Wohl’ is
said by the host or hostess. The company then toasts one
another, looking directly at each other, clinking glasses, and
saying ‘Prost’.
It’s always nice to call the day after the event. The host
will welcome it. Some people write thank-you notes as a
gesture of gratitude.

SPECIAL OCCASIONS

Austrians celebrate special events with family and close
friends. If you’re lucky enough to get invited to a festive
occasion, there are a few things you should know.

Tips on Socialising

„ Always be punctual.

„ Greet people with a handshake.

„ Address people by their last name until invited to use

their first name.

„ Use the formal ‘you’, Sie, until otherwise indicated.

„ Bring a small gift for the hostess.

„ Be prepared to take off your shoes upon entering

someone’s home.

„ Wait to be introduced to other guests.

„ Do not begin eating until the host says Mahlzeit or

Guten Appetit.

„ Never drop by unannounced.

„ Do not be loud.

„ Dress nicely and conservatively.

„ Expect there to be heavy smoking.

„ Call or send a thank you note the following day.