Etiquette in Latin America varies from country to country, but some generalizations can be made. The countries in Central and South America were colonized by Europeans and as such many customs and behavior expectations are the similar. Here are a few notable differences you should consider before you travel.
- People from Latin America are often more comfortable with loud talk and exaggerated hand gestures. They may have a smaller sense of personal space. It may be rude to step away from someone while they are talking to you.
- At some finer restaurants, the server will wait for you to request the check; anything else is considered rude.
- The America gesture “come here” with the palm facing upward and opening and closing the fingers could be perceived as a romantic prelude.
- Hand objects, don’t toss them. It’s not considered rude everywhere, but it is some places.
- Don’t refer to yourself as “American” or from “America;” they are too. You are from the United States or perhaps North American. Using this terminology helps to avoid confusion.
- Don’t talk about US Foreign Policy while in a foreign country. This seems like such a simplistic suggestion; but you would be surprised how many people forget this basic rule.
- Religion is not taken lightly by many Latin Americans. While in Latin America treat religion with respect.
There are many other rules to follow while traveling to Latin America, but following these basic etiquette guidelines will help ensure you have a safe and fun trip.
About Giovanni Guerra
Giovanni Guerra is an Associate with Michael Saad International with extensive experience with security related issues and specializes in Latin affairs, customs, traditions and operational security & awareness in Mexico. Recently, Ms Guerra received her M.Sc. in Intelligence and National Security from the University of Texas at El Paso.