Cheek kissing of kisses is found in Switzerland. In Francophone Belgium, the custom is usually one or three kisses, and is also common between men who are friends. In Northern European countries such as Sweden and Germany, hugs are preferred to kisses. It is customary in many regions to only have kisses between women and women, but not men and women, who only shake hands or hug (more familiar) instead. Although cheek kissing is not as widely practiced in the United Kingdom or Ireland as in other parts of Europe, it is still commonplace. Generally, a kiss on one cheek is commonplace,
Cheek kissing (Southern), elderly women may be cheek kissed by younger men as a gesture of affection and respect. In Québec, cheek kissing is referred to in the vernacular (Québécois) as "un bec" (""donner un bec"") or "la bise" (""faire la bise""). Whether francophone or other, people of the opposite sex often kiss once on each cheek. Cheek kissing between women is also very common, although men will often refrain. Two people introduced by a mutual friend may also give each other "un bec". Immigrant groups tend to have their own norms for cheek kissing, usually carried over from their native country.