I think a decent rule is to play by the rules of wherever you are. That makes sense to me in theory, but I find it hard to apply in practice.

After 4 years in Dubai, I still get very pissed when people cut in front of me. Arabic and Indian culture isn't about standing in an orderly row, and it's tough when people are constantly breaking your rules. But I won't correct anyone because this is their place - it'll never be home for me, for the very same reasons.

Many French people are not polite. I don't really know why - (French Canadians are not like that :)
But if you're more rude than they are, they'll respect you. If someone is being a bit arrogant, raise your voice and take a step toward them - they'll back down.

vooz-all-ay-on-arr-yerr! = Go to the back!
moh-dee soh-vaj! = Damned savage(s)!

P.S.: Yes, Norwegians are very polite (and if they're from Trondheim they're _very_ good looking). But I remember them having a more European view of personal space. When I travel to Europe, I'm constantly apologizing every time I touch a stranger (by accident) and when I force someone to change direction on the street. It makes me feel silly to apologize all day when nobody else does. It's a Canadian thing.