This is a great thread....

I'll pipe in with a bit on 'sign' language. If something is alright or OK, it is customary in North America (and I'm sure in parts of Europe as well) to form a circle with your thumb and index finger, and 'fan out' the remaining fingers to form a visual OK with your hand.

Not so in Brazil !! If you're ever in this beautiful country, refrain from making this gesture. In Brazil, this sign represents a very crude/rude/expletive, and could get you into a very unpleasant situation. Use the old "Thumbs Up" sign.

Regards, John Wiernikowski Hamilton, Ontario