250 CultureShock!CultureShock! Chile Chile
Give the mailman a little money at the end of the month.
Technically you owe a couple of pesos for each piece of
mail delivered.
Protect against pollution, especially in winter, by avoiding
strenuous outdoor activities.
Cover your mouth when yawning.DON’TS
Rush straight into business negotiations. Start by chatting.
Dress or behave in a flamboyant fashion. Err on the
conservative side, right down to your business card.
Chew gum in any formal or semi-formal situation.
Remove your shoes when entering a home.
Smoke at someone’s house without asking for
permission.
Be insulted if anyone calls you ‘gringo;’ it is used as a
term of endearment.
Be insulted by blunt comments on your appearance.
Ask others how much their personal items (e.g. jewellery
or watches) cost.
Assume that all Chileans are anti-Pinochet.
Leave your host’s home immediately after the meal.
Expect to stay at least an hour longer.
Bounce a check; it is illegal and you could face severe
penalties.
Offer bribes.
Drive your car if you have Restricción due to a pollution
emergency.