One of funny differences between Europe and the U.S. is how friends greet each other. When you first meet someone, at least in Greece, you do a handshake. Normal enough. But after that, most friends greet each other with a kiss on each cheek. I know it seems like an unnecessary show of affection, but I personally like it. At BC sometimes I feel like we shy away from showing we care for our friends in public. There probably isn't even a specific reason for why, but frequently I feel distant from the people that I feel closest to because of this cultural difference.
The double peck on the cheek is simply a nice reminder of affection for our friends. It's not like a PDA of a couple making out in a public place, in which case grab the nearest rock you can find and bean one of them in the head. Just a cool way to say hello, I think (the kiss on the cheek, not the rock throw).
The funny thing is, and not surprisingly either, the only exception where you don't see it happen is when two guys greet each other. The same types of greetings occur here, although I have seen it with older men. Definitely not on campus though. Guess some things don't change across cultures.
Anyone else have thoughts on the matter? Do you like the European-style greeting between friends? Or do you prefer to just say hello, maybe a passing hug and then be on your way?
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