(Second of two parts, go to part one)

Last month, I described etiquette in various European countries. This month, I cover etiquette in a few more countries.

Italy

Italians are guided by first impressions, so it is essential to demonstrate good manners when greeting people.

Do not wrap gifts in black, as it is traditionally a mourning color. Also, don’t wrap them in purple, as that is a symbol of bad luck.

If invited to an Italian’s house...

In June 2012, I slowly chauffeured our leased Peugeot on a one-lane road through the majestic scenery of the Provence in southern France. As I drove, I thought I should share with ITN readers how my wife, Flory (who passed away last year), and I journeyed 4,000 miles by car from the Netherlands to the Côte d’Azur and back, all at the age of 87. 

Despite our difficulty walking and Flory’s needing to use a rollator, a 4-wheeled walker, which usually has a platform on...