So here's the story: I have a female friend who just started traveling internationally for business. I wouldn't say she is particularly well-traveled, but she has been to UK, Japan, and a couple other countries. On this particular trip, she went to both France and Spain. In France, when she arrived at the client site, the male employee who was supposed to be showing her around shook her hand, and then leaned in and kissed her on the cheek. She freaked out and ran out of the room. One of the other ladies there intervened, apologized for the "misunderstanding" and convinced her to stay for the meeting. She stayed for the 3 days she was supposed to, but didn't get much work done.

When she told me this story, I was initially rather dismissive, basically telling her "in Rome, do as Romans do". However, I'm not sure if that is the best advice. I believe that you should try to adapt to the culture of wherever you are and keep an open mind, but what if it violates your comfort level to the point where you almost consider it harassment?

I would like to hear any thoughts or similar personal stories.