[colkassad]

I moved to eastern Europe for a while and was struck by how cold and aloof people were to each other in day to day life. It took me some time to adjust; I had to tone down how I spoke with people I didn't know. No compliments or talking about the weather or coming weekend. This was easier as I started learning the language as I was naturally more self-conscious and reserved. Paradoxically (or not?) I started to make friends much faster once I started becoming more aloof myself. I have to say, it was a bit of relief not having to worry about small talk on the elevator. I also noticed that I valued my friendships much more.

On that note, the personal space thing is spot on. When speaking to friends and colleagues, they enjoyed getting a foot or so away from my face...when drinking this distance would dramatically decrease.

[a-priori]

I definitely noticed this in Switzerland with service staff (not so much with strangers in other situations though). It seemed rude first to not have a waiter/cashier/whoever strike up small talk while serving you, or for a waiter to not check on you part-way through a meal, or speak very formally with you. But once you realize it's their way of being polite, valuing your time and not being intrusive into your private life, it grows on you. I find the North American way annoying now!