Learning how to wave

I've been in Europe for nearly 15 years and I never knew how to wave properly until now, thanks to the World Citizenship Guide, which was jointly produced by the US Government and a business group.

In most European countries, the correct way to wave hello and good-bye is palm out, hand and arm stationary, fingers wagging up and down. Common American waving means no – except in Greece, where it is an insult.

The idea is to help Americans behave better abroad.

Here's tip number two: Smile. Genuinely. — couldn't be simpler. I wish I'd known that before now. Or, here's another one: Be quiet. — I doubt I could have done that even if I'd known it was a good idea.

Wow! So much to learn. And, I haven't even seen the full guide. The abridged version is all that's available online.

I have to go now, but I'll be practicing my waving the rest of the day.