The most fascinating superstitions worldwide – What about South Africa?

The most interesting superstitions around the world 

Insurance specialists InsureandGo have researched global superstitions to uncover the most unique beliefs about good and bad luck in different countries.

The research looked at beliefs, ancient rituals, folklore, and societal tales from over 227 countries to uncover some of the most unique parts of (nearly) every country’s culture.

From the Taiwanese recommending you avoid writing someone’s name in red ink, to people in Somalia saying you should only trim your nails during daylight, superstitions are different all around the world and being aware of them is an excellent way for travellers to ensure they’re respectful of local customs while abroad. 

Interesting beliefs

Many superstitions revolve around personal finances and are often tied to objects, actions, or rituals. For example, in Albania, it’s thought to bring good fortune if you accidentally put clothes on backwards, and it’s best to keep them that way.

In Ghana, an itching right palm means there’s incoming wealth, while an itching left palm warns of impending expenses. Meanwhile, if you’re travelling to Mexico, you should know that placing a purse on the ground is believed to result in losing money. 

Other warnings about everyday objects are common: in Ecuador, Peru, and Martinique, placing a hat on a bed is thought to invite doom, meanwhile, in Mississippi, superstition says you’ll get sick within a year if you get up from a rocking chair and let it keep moving. 

Specific colours also hold significant meaning when it comes to good omens. If you’re visiting Guatemala on New Year’s Eve, you might notice many people wearing white since it’s said to bring good fortune and positive energy. In Bolivia, it’s the underwear that determines the year’s fate: red is said to bring love, and gold brings wealth. While in Chile, no matter the time of year, yellow is always considered a lucky colour. 

The most interesting superstitions in Africa 

Africa is home to many spiritually rooted superstitions, which reflect a deep respect for ancestors and nature. Many of these superstitions interestingly revolve a lot around where you should (and should not) point towards. In South Africa, it’s considered bad luck to point at a rainbow, while those visiting Liberia are advised against pointing at graveyards, as the gesture is believed to bring misfortune. 

Many superstitions in the continent revolve around unluckiness, such as the belief in Namibia that coming across a hyena on the road signals impending illness. And remember that, when staying in Zimbabwe and Nigeria, it’s best not to whistle at night as it’s thought to summon evil spirits or bring about disastrous circumstances. 

Letitia Smith, Head of Communications at InsureandGo comments: “Whether or not you are superstitious, making an effort to understand the local customs when you travel not only offers a unique lens into the culture you’re learning more about, but it’s important to ensure you are respectful of local people and their beliefs while visiting. 

“We all know unlucky events can happen anywhere, however, regardless of how many times you knock on wood or cross your fingers, so it’s best to be prepared, especially when you travel. Delayed flights, lost luggage or medical emergencies are all things that can happen while abroad. Purchase travel insurance as soon as you book a new trip, so you have comprehensive cover in place should anything unexpected happen.” Smith adds.