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In Latin America, travelers may encounter such diverse settings as laid-back coastal resorts and traditional mountain villages, while elsewhere, the cultural expectations of these countries can be worlds away. For instance:
-In Mexico, crooking the index finger to say "come here" and the American "okay" sign are considered obscene.
-Photographing military installations in Mexico, Cuba, or Paraguay could land you in jail---or at least lead to your forfeiting your film to the police.
-If you wear the clothing of the indigenous people in Peru, they will think you're making fun of them.
-State-run "official" restaurants aren't your best bet in Cuba---seek out paladares, small restaurants set up in private homes.
-You shouldn't be surprised if you don't get silverware in the Belize countryside. Tortillas are often used in place of spoons.
-Bikinis are not acceptable on Ecuadorean beaches.
-Giving a Chilean yellow roses signifies scorn or contempt.
Fully updated and expanded,
The Travelers' Guide to Latin American Customs and Manners includes advice and information on daily life in Argentina, Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, Guatemala, Mexico, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, and Venezuela.
About the author
Elizabeth Devine and Nancy L. Braganti
