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Similarly, even in my little and very western country of the Netherlands, there are definitely places where this is part of the regular custom.

Same thing in France, and I think in most parts of Europe.

I guess its a matter of degree. The dance has three rounds in some countries.

Wow, this sounds exactly like offering anyone anything in Minnesota.

You're missing the point here Abruzzi. These customs are mainly put in place or evolved to govern the interactions between strangers not between friends and family although they apply nevertheless.

So, when it's customary around the world to be nice with your friends and show them that you care about them, in other cultures esp. high-context ones this friendly behavior extends to strangers as well.