In Rome be a roman?

Haha.......great topic !
Well, I been living out of my country for 29 years !
I am putting my small 'bit' here...

I beleive that the first thing a person should do when he/she moves to a foreign country is ... get hold of a good book or a person who can explain the common guidelines (based on the country's culture).. it is important because  simple gestures are interprested in a very diverse way in diff countries.
Example: In india its okay to touch a child's head. Infact it is considered as blessing to the child.
But in thailand it is rude.

In the west it is okay to put your feet on the work-desk while having a chat with a colleague......in Thailand, India..this would be very rude.

In the west (usa & europe) its okay to tease colleagues or even be a bit physical like hugging or tapping on shoulder etc.. but in middle-east this is forbidden.

So, getting to know the small nick-nacks of local culture is a must.

Before meeting someone on a very important issue, explain that you are a newcomer so certain words or mannerisms if the hosts deem as offensive...please excuse them.

Try different foods but know your digestive boundaries.
Make friends and exchange ideas on your own culture too.

Infact, going to new countries gives a person golden opportunities to learn while enjoying the adventure.

Taking the best of both the culture will enrich a person in knowledge and attitude.

'nuff said?