General Etiquette

In Guinea, greetings are very important. Every time you meet someone, you must first ask about their health and the health of their family before continuing the discussion or saying anything else. The culture of Guinea supports and encourages equality among its people. The use of the left hand in social situations is discouraged in Guinea because it is thought to be impolite or improper. Shaking hands, giving someone something, paying for anything, or even just pointing at something are all prohibited with the left hand. This is something that should be remembered before traveling to Guinea.

The nation's social beliefs and etiquette are comparable to those of other African countries. For instance, it is traditional and courteous to greet one another before engaging in further conversation. It is customary to ask about their well-being before engaging in any other conversation. The welcome is typically followed by a handshake and, occasionally, a quick kiss on the cheek. When speaking with their elders, children should be respectful and keep their gazes downcast. Sometimes a child needs to use an intermediary to speak with an elder. In addition, it is considered unlucky to commend a child on their beauty.