Whenever we're at some sort of celebratory event and there's booze involved, odds are someone is going to stand up and give a toast. But, as is the case with most cultural traditions, knowing how to give a toast around the world will stand you in good stead — not all toasts are equal, and they definitely vary depending on where in the world you are. But hey, the good news is that somebody else has kindly taken all the guesswork out of it for us: YouTube channel Let's Grab a Beer just answered all the questions about global toasts you might have, so if you're planning any trips abroad, definitely watch this video before you order your first drink!
First things first: How the tradition of toasting come about, anyway? Unfortunately no one is really sure of the exact origin. We do know, though, that toasting was a common tradition in many ancient cultures and societies, including in ancient Greece and Roman. For the curious, the first use of the English word "toast" was written by none other than William Shakespeare in his play The Merry Wives of Windsor — and interestingly, this usage actually indicated the act of putting a piece of toast into wine, which was thought to add some flavor to otherwise stale bread. From there, it took on the meaning of honoring people — and the rest, as they say, is history.
Now, getting back into modern times, toasting really does vary a lot from culture to culture. Let's take a look at some of the ways toasting is done around the world — because it just wouldn't do to say "slainte" in Japan, would it?
1. Germany
If you find yourself toasting in Germany, clink glasses with everyone and make sure that you make eye contact with them as you do. Then, say "Proust!" and drink up.
2. Brazil
Brazil has a very different way of toasting than we do in the United States: Tradition dictates that you order one large bottle and pour its contents into smaller glasses for everyone to share — a technique which apparently makes beer stay colder! Then, just say "Saude!" and take a sip of your drink.
3. Japan
If you're about to make a toast in Japan, make sure to pour a drink for everyone you are with — except for yourself. Never, ever pour for yourself; it's considered to be highly disrespectful.
4. Ireland
Drinking beer in Ireland is honestly kind of a dream of mine, so I hope to use this toasting technique myself. If you're toasting in Ireland, you should buy a round for your friends (then they'll buy the next round for you) and say "Slainte!" as you raise your glass.
Going to a country other than the four mentioned above? If you want to see how you should toast in countries like China, Armenia, and Hungary, watch the full video below.
Images: Let's Grab A Beer/YouTube (4)
