Barry Smart

Despite superficial appearances, Germany is a country that operates very differently from the USA and Britain. German history is more than a thousand years old and the relatively new German nation-state encompasses an astonishing variety of cultural and regional differences. German society is in a state of flux as people respond to immigration and a tough economic climate, and traditional attitudes are softening as German business globalizes. Culture Smart! Germany aims to show you what treatment to expect, what pitfalls to avoid, and how to build rapport and credibility with this culturally rich and inventive people in the heart of Europe.

Despite superficial appearances, Germany is a country that operates very differently from the USA and Britain. German history is more than a thousand years old and the relatively new German nation-state encompasses an astonishing variety of cultural and regional differences. German society is in a state of flux as people respond to immigration and a tough economic climate, and traditional attitudes are softening as German business globalizes. Culture Smart! Germany aims to show you what treatment to expect, what pitfalls to avoid, and how to build rapport and credibility with this culturally rich and inventive people in the heart of Europe.

Italy delights and stimulates with its magnificent cities, monuments, landscapes, art, architecture, food, design, fashion, and people. Italian style and culture have been exported all over the world, but at home, Italian society and politics are facing challenges as the country struggles to maintain its standard of living, the stability of its currency, and its ability to provide jobs. Culture Smart! Italy provides vital information and practical tips to help smooth your path in different social situations.

The French are "different." You'll often hear this in conversations among the "Anglo-Saxons," as the French like to call English-speakers. "Different" means charming, challenging, questioning, stylish, and doing things in their own way and to their own advantage. So what qualities make them so distinctive? And how do you get through to them?