Greetings from Around the Globe: A World Tour of “Hello”

The Importance of Greetings

Greetings around the world are more than just words; they’re cultural bridges. A simple “hello” can open doors, break down barriers, and create a positive first impression. In some cultures, greeting etiquette is formal and structured, while in others, they’re warm and casual. Understanding these nuances can help you navigate social situations with grace and confidence.

A World of “Hello”

Let’s explore some common greetings in different languages:

Spanish: “Hola”

One of the most widely spoken languages, Spanish greetings are often accompanied by a handshake or a kiss on the cheek (in social settings). If you want to know how to say hello in Spanish, remember “Hola”! Learn more about greetings in Spain and greetings in Latin America.

French: “Bonjour” (good day) or “Salut” (informal)

French greetings vary in formality. “Bonjour” is used in most situations, while “Salut” is reserved for friends and family. A handshake is common, and in some regions, a kiss on both cheeks is customary. If you are going to France, learn how to say hello in French. Our guide to the ultimate spa vacation in France.

German: “Hallo” or “Guten Tag” (good day)

German greetings can be formal or informal. “Guten Tag” is used in formal settings, while “Hallo” is more common among friends. A handshake is the standard form of greeting. Learn how to say hello in German.
If you are interested in a spa vacation in Germany i suggest reading our native german writer Andreas’s article on German spa getaways.

Italian: “Ciao” (informal) or “Buongiorno” (good day)

“Ciao” is a versatile greeting used both for hello and goodbye, but it’s informal. “Buongiorno” is the more formal option. Italians often greet with a handshake, and close friends and family might exchange kisses on both cheeks. Learn how to say hello in Italian. Planning to visit Italy? Check out our guide to a perfect Italian spa vacation.

Japanese: “Konnichiwa” (good day)

Japanese greetings are highly formalized and depend on the relationship between the speakers. Bowing is a crucial part of the bowing in Japan ritual, with the depth of the bow indicating respect. Learn how to say hello in Japanese.

Chinese (Mandarin): “Nǐ hǎo”

Mandarin greetings are generally simple. A slight bow or a nod is common, although handshakes are becoming more frequent, especially in business settings. Learn how to say hello in Chinese.

Arabic: “As-salamu alaykum” (peace be upon you)

Arabic greetings are often lengthy and elaborate, with the response being “Wa alaykum as-salam” (and upon you be peace). Handshakes are common among men, but physical contact between men and women is often avoided. Learn how to say hello in Arabic and greetings in the Middle East.

Swedish: “Hej”

Swedish greetings are typically informal, with “Hej” being the most common. A handshake is the standard form of greeting. Learn how to say hello in Swedish and greetings in Sweden.
Looking for the best spa hotels and resorts in Sweden? Our article of the top 14 spa hotels in Sweden is right here.

Beyond the Basics: Interesting Greeting Customs

• Maori (New Zealand): The “Hongi,” a traditional greeting where two people press their noses and foreheads together.
• Tibetan: Sticking out your tongue is a sign of respect and greeting.
• Tuvalu: Pressing one’s nose to the cheek and taking a deep breath.

Tips for Mastering Greetings:

• Listen to Pronunciation: Pay attention to how native speakers say the greeting.
• Consider the Context: Use formal greetings in formal situations and informal greetings with friends.
• Observe Body Language: Pay attention to cultural greetings cues like handshakes, bows, or kisses on the cheek.
• Practice: Don’t be afraid to try out your new greetings!

Why Learn Greetings in Different Languages?

Learning greetings in different languages can:

• Enhance your travel greetings experiences.
• Show respect for other cultures.
• Facilitate communication and connection.
• Broaden your understanding of the world.

Below you will find a list of greetings in 50 different languages that can help you create a positive first contact:

List of Greetings in Different Languages

• English: Hello
• Spanish: Hola
• French: Bonjour
• German: Hallo
• Italian: Ciao
• Portuguese: Olá
• Russian: Здравствуйте (Zdravstvuyte)
• Japanese: こんにちは (Konnichiwa)
• Chinese (Mandarin): 你好 (Nǐ hǎo)
• Arabic: مرحبا (Marhaban)
• Korean: 안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo)
• Turkish: Merhaba
• Vietnamese: Xin chào
• Polish: Cześć
• Dutch: Hallo
• Greek: Γειά σου (Geiá sou)
• Czech: Ahoj
• Hungarian: Szia
• Romanian: Salut
• Swedish: Hej
• Norwegian: Hei
• Danish: Hej
• Finnish: Hei
• Icelandic: Halló
• Hebrew: שלום (Shalom)
• Hindi: नमस्ते (Namaste)
• Bengali: হ্যালো (Hyālō)
• Urdu: ہیلو (Hello)
• Punjabi: ਸਤ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਅਕਾਲ (Sat sri akaal)
• Swahili: Jambo
• Zulu: Sawubona
• Amharic: ሰላም (Selam)
• Somali: Salaan
• Nepali: नमस्ते (Namaste)
• Tamil: வணக்கம் (Vanakkam)
• Telugu: నమస్కారం (Namaskaram)
• Marathi: नमस्कार (Namaskar)
• Gujarati: નમસ્તે (Namaste)
• Kannada: ನಮಸ್ಕಾರ (Namaskara)
• Malayalam: നമസ്കാരം (Namaskaram)
• Sinhala: ආයුබෝවන් (Ayubowan)
• Lao: ສະບາຍດີ (Sabaidee)
• Khmer: សួស្ដី (Suostei)
• Thai: สวัสดี (Sawasdee)
• Indonesian: Halo
• Malay: Hai
• Filipino (Tagalog): Kamusta
• Basque: Kaixo
• Catalan: Hola
• Esperanto: Saluton

So, the next time you travel, remember to learn how to say “hello” in the local language. It’s a small gesture that can make a big difference!
Also, read our guide to the best spa destinations in the world 2025 to get inspired for your next holiday.