Culture Shock! Bolivia - A Survival Guide to Customs and Etiquette

(Grace) #1

268


DO’S AND DON’TS


DO’S


 Say buenos días (good morning), buenas tardes (good
afternoon) or buenas noches (good evening) when entering
a taxi, restaurant or house.
 Participate in indigenous ceremonies when invited and
respect La Pachamama (Mother Earth).
 Arrive on time for business meetings and classes.
 Behave according to your natural social background while
applying principles of justice and fairness.
 Say provecho (bon appétit) to others when leaving a
restaurant or dinner table.
 Speak up critically, using humour or irony to add a civil
edge to your comment, when a racist remark has been
made.
 Avoid the truth if it can be insulting and if it is not
productive.
 Keep certain alternative lifestyles discreet.
 Get somone at home to wire you money should you
need it.
 Employ paid help for the handicapped; it is not costly.
 Stay clear of illicit drugs and the people who use them.
Consult your embassy should you have a legal problem.
 Practise physical fitness in your everyday life. If you want
something more organised, join a private gym or club.
 Make photocopies of your important documents and keep
them in a separate place from the originals. If you have
other valuables, purchase travel insurance, and read the
contract carefully.
Free download pdf