Before immersing yourself in a different culture, you’ll likely research the cuisine, customs and best places to stay. But have you ever considered looking into societal superstitions? If not, you may want to add them to your list. 

Superstition is a belief or practises that is considered supernatural to some and irrational to others. Superstition is similar to the concept of synchronicity, which occurs when two seemingly related events happen at the same time but have no distinguishable connection. 

For example, believing that a four-leaf clover promotes good luck is a widely known superstition. If a person has a four-leaf clover and simultaneously comes into good fortune, an assumption could be drawn that the clover is responsible. However, it could also be labelled a coincidence.  

Some objects bring anxiety to those who cross them, such as black cats or the number 13. Some avoid certain activities – like stepping on cracks or walking under ladders. These are all superstitions. 

Every culture has its quirks, which is particularly obvious when it comes to superstitions. There are many different theories for where superstitions come from. Many of them can be traced back to folklore that has been passed down through generations by word of mouth. 

Superstitions exist for a reason. While those who abide by them may be labelled as whimsical – or even paranoid – there is usually a compelling story behind each one.

1. Leave your hair alone during the Chinese new year

Many cultures have superstitions surrounding the new year. In China, washing your hair on the first day of a new year is considered washing away good fortune. Some Chinese people also believe that getting a haircut during the first month of the Chinese calendar will bring about bad luck in the year ahead. However, a visit to the hair salon on the second day of the second month promotes good luck.

The reason? There are two theories. One is that scissors and needles should not be used so that women can rest. The other is that using sharp objects, such as scissors, cuts off a person’s access to wealth during the new year.

1. Beware of fantail birds in New Zealand

In New Zealand, the thought of a fantail bird entering a home is terrifying for some. The Maoris (the country’s indigenous Polynesian people) are likely responsible for this one. In Maori mythology, the fantail is a messenger from the gods bringing death or the news of death. 

1. Be mindful of hot sauce in Trinidad

Trinidadians are careful about how they handle hot pepper sauce. You may notice that people place the sauce on the table for another person to grab rather than handing it directly to them. That’s because it is widely believed that handing it to them directly will invite disharmony to exist between two people. 

1. Embrace the crooked witch windows in Vermont

There is an interesting old architectural trend in the United States. When you visit the state of Vermont, you may notice tilted windows on old homes. Witch windows were once installed at a 45-degree angle because of the belief that a witch can not enter into a crooked window while traveling on her broomstick.

1. Keep your cactus outdoors in Hungary

In Hungary, keeping a cactus indoors could put a thorn in your skin as well as your luck. According to superstition, the prickly plants are believed to carry bad energy and should not be kept in a person’s living quarters. 

Although they can’t be explained through science, superstitions thrive around the world. Over time, it becomes a tradition for people to be guided by them. Because they have become so deeply ingrained in cultures, such eccentricities could live on forever. 

As you prepare for travel, consider learning about the superstitions in the region. If nothing else, it will make a good conversation starter.