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

We asked people in Braga 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!...

"When visiting Braga, it's important to respect the local customs and traditions to avoid any cultural faux pas. Here are some tips: Avoid discussing politics, especially the Salazar regime and the Carnation Revolution, as these topics can be sensitive. Portuguese people value punctuality. Being late can be seen as disrespectful, so always try to be on time for appointments or social gatherings. In Portugal, it's considered rude to interrupt someone while they're speaking. Always wait for your turn to speak. Don't use a lot of hand gestures while talking. Portuguese people generally don't use as many hand gestures as other Southern Europeans, and excessive gesturing can be seen as theatrical or insincere. Avoid asking personal questions, especially about income or personal life, unless you know the person well. Portuguese people value their privacy. Don't rush your meals. In Portugal, meals are a time to relax and enjoy the company of others. Rushing through a meal can be seen as rude. Avoid wearing beachwear or overly casual clothing in churches or other religious sites. This can be seen as disrespectful. Don't forget to say "please" and "thank you". Portuguese people are polite and appreciate good manners. Avoid making loud noises or speaking loudly in public places. Portuguese people are generally quiet and reserved, and loud behavior can be seen as rude. Don't assume everyone speaks English. While many Portuguese people do speak English, especially in tourist areas, it's polite to ask if they speak English before starting a conversation," explained one expat living in Braga, Portugal.

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