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

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We asked people in Popayan 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 Popayan, it's important to avoid discussing sensitive topics such as drugs, violence, or the country's past conflicts. These topics can be seen as disrespectful and offensive. Avoid comparing Colombia to other Latin American countries, as Colombians are proud of their unique culture and heritage. It's also considered rude to arrive on time for social events. Colombians often arrive late, so try to follow this local custom to avoid appearing overly eager or impatient. Don't disrespect the Catholic religion, which is widely practiced in Colombia. Even if you don't share the same beliefs, it's important to show respect for their traditions and customs. Avoid making negative comments about the local cuisine. Colombians are proud of their food and it's considered impolite to criticize it. Don't ignore local customs and traditions. Colombians are very proud of their culture and appreciate when foreigners show interest and respect for their customs. Avoid public displays of affection. While Colombians are warm and friendly, they tend to be conservative when it comes to public displays of affection. Lastly, don't forget to tip. In Colombia, it's customary to leave a 10% tip in restaurants," mentioned another expat when asked about moving to Popayan, Colombia.

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

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


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