Shaking hands for advanced Luxembourg word

The other day, a stranger stood on our doorstep and stretched my hand towards me – with a matter of course, as if we had known each other for 20 years. It was an employee of a photovoltaic company who carried out work on the roof.

Actually, a simple « bonjour » would have been completely sufficient. The handshake was not uncomfortable – neither too firm nor too lax. But the way he gave my hand felt strangely familiar. Too familiar. Almost buddy, as you know it from long -time colleagues. He was by no means unappealing. It was easy … a little too much.

I had to think of the old saying: there is only one chance for the first impression. And I wondered: How do you actually greet yourself right nowadays? Especially after the Corona period, it was somehow agreed that the classic handshake is no longer absolutely necessary. And yet you automatically reach for it again – out of habit? Out of uncertainty?

But what to do if you prefer to avoid the handshake? It looks rude. Maybe you can switch to the Corona fist at the last moment.

It gets even more complicated with the welcome kisses. While Corona practically disappeared, they sneak back now. And every time the same question arises: one, two or three? On the right or left? Or do you prefer to omit?

It quickly becomes a small choreography in international encounters. Sometimes it looks like a dance misunderstanding with unintentional touch touch. And when saying goodbye: the same game again?

The man from the photovoltaic company would probably have chosen the handshake …