All countries and cultures have their conversational idiosyncrasies - the culturally approved dos and don'ts of people speaking together. Countries with a common heritage, such as the Hispanic countries of South America share some common traditions, but each has its specific customs.
As an example, many South Americans like to talk in close proximity to each other. To North Americans, and others, this may seem like an invasion of personal space, but to Latin Americans, it's the norm. Stepping back, an unconscious gesture to reclaim that space, is seen as a rebuff, a rudeness. Keeping eye contact while speaking is an asset.
Speaking of North and South Americans, we are all Americans. Latin Americans are both more effusive, flowery and more formal in their speech. While other nationalities pride themselves on being bluntly honest, a South American tends to be more diplomatic and tactful. The honorific Don or Doña, used with the first name in a friendly or family relationship, or with the surname, is a token of respect. Even though informality in conversation is more common now, particularly among younger people, it's still worthwhile to maintain a polite distance until you are better acquainted.
Some general suggestions for traveling and conversing in South America:
- Learn about the country. Read up on sports, literature, geography, celebrities, etc. You may not need the information, but it provides conversational material to break the ice.
- Learn about the politics and history, but be wary of discussing them unless the subject is brought up. Don't discuss religion.
- As a general rule, don't use first names until you are asked to do so.
- Be friendly. As for suggestions on what to see, where to eat, what to eat, etc.
- Don't make unflattering comparisons between your country and the one you are visiting.
- Expect personal questions, but don't ask them. In some cases, you can expect very personal comments about your appearance. Ignore them rather than take offense. Once you have broken the ice, you may inquire about families, and children. Compliments are acceptable.
- Don't question people about their genetic heritage. Some cultures have definite biases against or about their antecedents.
- Use people's titles, if degreed, with their last names. This is important to doctors, lawyers, engineers, architects, professors and the like.
Some specific tips:
- Argentinians aren't thrilled to discuss the Peron years and past human rigths issues. They are also sensitive to the Falklands War, and call the islands the Islas Malvinas
- Bolivians are sensitive to the loss of territory to Chile.
- Brazilians are not Hispanic. They are proud of their Portuguese heritage. They are also exuberant, talkative, but sensitive to discussions about the rainforest destruction. Marital status is not a good conversational topic.
- Chileans love to talk about their country, but avoid politics and the Allende/Pinochet years. Human rights is an ultra-senstive topic.
- Colombians like bullfighting, so negative comments aren't welcome. Don't discuss drugs, political situations, or terrorist activity. Interest in emeralds and coffee are welcome.
- Ecuadorians like to talk about their families and their jobs. Discuss their country in favorable terms, but avoid politics, sexual or personal topics.
- Paraguayans are tremendously proud of their hydroelectric dams. Discuss famiy. sports, touring, but avoid any political talk. Conflict between the liberales and the colorados is still tense.
- Peruvians enjoy talking about families and jobs. They'll ask about your country, and welcome discussions of their own, but avoid politics, money and government.
- Uruguayans enjoy talking about their country - what to see and do, where to eat - but are more reticent about personal matters. You can discuss international politics.
- Venezuelans are sensitive about politics, government and family matters. If you are asked, be prepared to discuss the economy.
Can you add to this list? Be sure to comment on the forum via the discussion link above!
