All races have their own particular gestures, some subtle, some very demonstrative. Gestures are movements of the hands or face that are used to give non-verbal messages.
Researchers have estimated that human hands and faces can make hundreds of thousands of different signs and expressions. It is therefore quite understandable that gestures and the meanings of the gestures can vary from culture to culture. Quite often, misunderstandings occur. That is why politicians often employ cross-cultural communication consultants who advise them what gestures are considered polite or impolite and an acceptable form of communication. For example, if a prime minister visited another country, he/she would not kiss the leader of that country. A handshake would be appropriate. However, in some countries, a kiss might be more polite.
Leaders need to know this information beforehand. The rest of us need to understand a few common gestures, particularly if we mix with foreigners or plan to travel abroad. In any case, it's fun to learn the meaning of some of these gestures.
Here is a short list of some of the more common gestures.
1. Raised eyebrow: In Tonga this gesture means yes or I agree.
In Peru it means money or pay me. In Greece and Italy it means you're doubting what you've just heard or have questions.