Good taste. Yes taste is subjective, but only to a small degree. Context, as is the case with practically everything, is critical.
I am a gentleman. I consider the feelings of others. I am well mannered. This way those close to me know I will handle situations like taxicabs and revolving doors, dance floors, etc. I address people with respect, especially if I need something from them. Again, context. I won’t do something ungentlemanly unless I know my audience and it’s for comedic effect. As is the case with taste, one must know the rules in order to break them now and then. I will use profanity, but only if it will solicit a laugh.
I tip discreetly. Well, I never flash money.
If there is no sign reading otherwise I will carry my coffee into your store. I depend on my deportment to suggest I won’t spill it all over everything. It’s amazing what you can get away with if you dress well, keep your voice down and treat other peoples things with respect.
Restaurants. You’ve been allowed into another’s place as a guest. I always behave accordingly. As with any business, those that are there to serve you are deserving of your respect. I ask names, how one’s day is going. Make the exchange personal and one will get so much more.
The car is a pavement wrinkling monster, but it doesn’t look like one to the average eye. Here demonstrating courtesy and even temperament can mean avoiding injury or even death.