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Salento, Colombia | What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Salento? | Expat Exchange
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Salento?

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We asked people in Salento if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...

"In Salento, it's important to respect the local customs and traditions. Avoid making negative comments about the country, its people, or its culture. Colombians are very proud of their heritage and may take offense to any criticism. It's also considered rude to arrive late to social gatherings or appointments. Colombians value punctuality and may see lateness as a sign of disrespect. Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as drugs, violence, or politics. Colombia has a complex history with these issues and it's best to steer clear of them unless you are well-informed and the conversation naturally leads there. When dining, it's customary to finish all the food on your plate as a sign of appreciation for the meal. Leaving food uneaten can be seen as wasteful or ungrateful. In Colombia, it's common to greet people with a handshake, a hug, or a kiss on the cheek. However, it's important to follow the other person's lead and not initiate physical contact if it seems unwelcome. Finally, remember to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Colombians tend to dress more formally than in some other countries, and showing too much skin can be seen as disrespectful," remarked another expat who made the move to Salento, Colombia.

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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Salento?

If you live in Salento, newcomers to Salento would love to hear your answer to this question.


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