Culture Shock

I bought a very interesting book in London called "Culture Shock - Mexico" .

It details things that as a mexican, i found rather amusing - its definately a good read for anyone wishing to do business in Mexico or planning on staying here for a while. The book covers sbjects that help the reader understand things that they might see or by confused by whilst in Mexico, tips on mexican ettiquette and customs etc, a quick summary of mexican history, its characters and the things that have shaped who and what we are today.

It is not a guidebook. It is a hybrid - perfect for anyone that wants to explore deeper here and take a trip off the beaten path especially.

Especially useful, are the tips on how to recognise a good Mexican restaurant, how to address people in social situations, and other "Mexicanisms" such as various slangs which you may be confused by if you speak "spanish".

Mexican Etiquette Tips

Are you the type of person who can't seem to get anywhere on time? Well, if going to a person's home in Mexico, you're in luck! Showing up early or even showing up on time is sometimes considered rude. Arriving about 30 minutes late is appropriate. However, in business situations, it's smart to be on time, even if you are kept waiting by your Mexican business associates.

Below we have put together a list of Mexican etiquette to help you out on your trip!

1. What to wear

1. DON'T wear shorts if you wish to blend in. Aside from beaches and northern areas, shorts are seldom worn by Mexicans.
2. DO dress nicely for business situations. A suit and tie is fine, and women may also wear conservative dresses. In very hot regions, it's acceptable to wear lighter clothing, but don't wear overly casual clothing, such as t-shirts or flip-flops.
3. DO dress smart-casual for social occasions or going out in the city.
4. DO take off sunglasses and hats if entering a church.

2. Food/Drinks

1. DO rest your wrists on the edge of the table while dining.
2. DON'T sit until told where to sit.
3. DON'T begin eating until your host does.
4. DO understand that only men give toasts in Mexican culture.
5. DO indicate that you are finished eating by putting your knife and fork across your plate with the prongs going downwards and the handles facing right.
6. DO leave a little bit of food on your plate when you are done.If you finish, the host may think that you want more or were not satisfied as strange as that seems!
7. DO go with the flow. Unless you are REALLY not keen on the proposed plan, go with the flow.
8. DO say thank you after an evening out. Your mexican friend will appreciate it!

3. Tipping / Money

1. DO tip in the same fashion that you are used to at home although in Mexico city more restaurants will ask you if you want to "close" your bill or include a tip.
2. DON´T put the money on the counter when paying for things, put it into the cashiers hand

4. Giving and Accepting Gifts

1. DON'T give red flowers (negativity) or marigolds (day of the dead!!!!) However, white flowers are considered uplifting. Sweets or chocolate are always well received too!
2. DO open a gift upon receipt when someone gives you one.
3. DON´T WORRY - Gift wrapping does not follow any particular protocol
4. DO react enthusiastically when given a gift, even if you don´t like it!

5. Greetings

1. DO shake hands upon meeting someone even if its for the first time.
2. DO follow the lead of who you are greeting. Hugs are often shared among friends, as well as a light kiss on the cheek for women, even if its for the first time. If you go to someones home, make a point of saying "Hello" to everyone even if you dont know them!!
3. DO Wait until invited before using a Mexican's first name

6. Visiting Someone's Home

1. DO be fashionably late! Thirty minutes late is appropriate.
2. DO bring flowers or sweets for your host. Mexicans love this!
3. DO thank the host for having you over. They will probably reply that it was no trouble but if you dont make a point to say thank you then they probably wont invite you again!!

7. Business

1. DO make an appointment at least two weeks in advance and confirm a week before. Confirm the meeting one last time upon arriving in Mexico.
2. DON'T be late! However, your Mexican business associates may be late. Mexicans have a very relaxed view of time, but as a foreigner, you should make the effort to be on time.
3. DO be patient. Negotiations may proceed very slowly.
4. DO have written material translated to Spanish.
5. DO hire an interpreter if your spanish is not good!
6. DO expect haggling and prepare accordingly

8. Communication

1. DO understand that "estúpido" is considered a bad word in Mexico, and it means much worse than "stupid."
2. DO say "salud!" when someone sneezes. To not do so is considered rude.
3. DON´T respond to any wolfwhistling or anyone on the street that may try to attract your attention
4. DO try to speak in Spanish. Even an attempt to communicate with broken Spanish will be warmly appreciated and seen as a sign of interest and respect
   
5. DON´T "Ok" us. The U.S. hand sign for ‘ok’ (a circle with your thumb and forefinger) is considered vulgar in Mexico.