Normal greetings in my world tend to be a smile and firm handshake.  I remember the awkwardness as an early teen of the first time I was greeted with the traditional Italian kiss on the cheek.  Prepared for a nice smile and handshake, the very friendly older Italian lady ignored my extended hand, grabbed my shoulders, pulled me through the interpersonal danger zone and gave me a nice kiss on the cheek! My experience in life and society hadn’t prepared me for that moment.  I was stunned!