In spite of myths of Roma immorality, most Roma follow strict rules of sexual behavior. They are accused of being sexually promiscuous. Roma expect females to be virgins when they marry and to remain faithful to their husbands until death. Most outsiders often consider Roma a dirty people, unconcerned about personal hygiene. Cleanliness is a very special matter for Roma, one that is little understood by the gadje .
European folklore contains a number of references to the Romani complexion.
Another misconception is that the Roma will eat anything they can find. While undoubtedly true that their wandering existence and poverty have forced them to eat foods that might be distasteful to other peoples, there are very strict taboos against certain foods. The chief among them is horse meat, which is eaten by non-Roma in many parts of the world. According to the customs of certain tribes, any Rom eating horse meat may be severely punished or even banished from the tribe. The relationship of the horse to the Roma has historically been such a close one that it is unthinkable to eat this animal.