Hello, John. I don't know ... or still relevant , actual answer... when you ask ... about the culture of gifts. I want to reassure you. Gifts between strangers It is absolutely not necessary to do it.( a small souvenir of your country or a book if you want) but in new meeting ,it is first of all a discovery of something new tradition of custom, recognition of new qualities in your new friend. only these things is very important))) And only when you learn more about your friend ,you can decide - Yes, I want to do a gift or not. Only your desire , ardent desire to do it All the best to you. Tanya (city Odessa ,Ukraine)