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

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We asked people in Cancun 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!...

"While visiting Cancun, it's important to avoid making assumptions about Mexican culture based on stereotypes. It's also considered disrespectful to speak loudly or to interrupt when someone else is speaking. Avoid making negative comments about the country or comparing it unfavorably to your own, as this can be seen as disrespectful. When dining, it's considered rude to leave food on your plate, as it can be seen as wasteful or unappreciative of the effort put into preparing the meal. It's also important to respect local customs and traditions. For example, Mexicans tend to be quite religious, so avoid making disrespectful comments about religion. Avoid dressing inappropriately, especially in religious or traditional settings. In general, Mexicans tend to dress more formally than people in some other countries, so try to match the level of formality of those around you. Finally, while tipping is not mandatory in Mexico, it is customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% in restaurants and to tip service workers such as hotel staff and taxi drivers. Not leaving a tip can be seen as stingy or unappreciative. Remember, it's always a good idea to learn about and respect the customs and traditions of any place you visit," remarked another expat who made the move to Cancun, Mexico.

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

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


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