When traveling internationally, it’s not easy to anticipate how an innocent flick of the hand or “OK” sign might be interpreted. Body language varies wildly from culture to culture, and it’s not a bad idea to brush up on local hand gestures and other movements in order to avoid a misunderstanding – or even an altercation. You might think you’re flashing the peace sign to your new buddies, while they might take your gesture rather differently.

Photo credit: Flickr

Check out this “handy” guide to some gestures that might not mean what you think – and should probably be avoided in places including Italy, Turkey, Brazil, Saudi Arabia and more. Don’t say we didn’t warn you!

Flipping The Pájaro: A Multicultural Guide To Rude Gestures, from The Huffington Post