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How Different Cultures Enjoy Their Lunch Break
Lunch breaks might seem simple, but they actually show how different cultures balance work and life. Some countries see it as a quick pause to refuel, while others make it a moment to connect and relax. Here’s how lunch looks around the world!
Usually around 1 hour, depending on the company. Most workers bring bento homemade meals with rice, veggies, and protein. Some eat teishoku lunch sets or grab food from konbini (convenience stores). It’s also common to spend the break walking, stretching, or reading to recharge energy and focus.
Lunch breaks in France last about 1–2 hours, not just to eat but to truly enjoy good food, conversation, and a bit of joie de vivre! People usually have a light starter like salad or soup, a main dish with veggies, bread, cheese, dessert, and of course, coffee to end the meal.
Lunch breaks are usually 30 - 60 minutes, and many people eat at their desks or grab something quick, efficiency first! Common eats include sandwiches, salads, or fast food.
Lunch breaks usually last about 1 hour, often enjoyed with coworkers or a quick stop at a warung. Common eats include nasi goreng (fried rice), mie goreng (fried noodles), soto ayam (chicken soup), satay skewers, and maybe rendang. Meals are hearty, spicy, and packed with flavour.
Lunch break typically lasts about 1 hour. Many office workers go out to nearby restaurants with coworkers, or eat from company cafetarias. Common eats: baekban (a tray with rice, soup & side dishes), bibimbap, kimchi stew, jajangmyeon / jjamppong, and also dosirak (packed lunch).
Every country has its own way of enjoying lunch, from France’s long, relaxing meals to Japan’s quick and organized breaks.
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