How much should I tip? How do I greet my counterpart? And is punctuality really so relaxed? So that you can react appropriately in every situation on your trip, we have compiled the most important rules of conduct for Argentina in this article.
Your next trip will take you to Argentina? Then you are probably already looking forward to the numerous scenic and cultural highlights that this country has to offer: Tango, good wine, delicious steaks, but also the lively metropolis Buenos Aires and the stunning landscape of Patagonia give enough incentives to write Argentina on your travel to-do list.
Like the vast majority of South America, Argentina was colonized by the Spanish in the past centuries, which is not only noticeable in the official language Spanish. The manners and customs in this country are also often reminiscent of the Mediterranean lifestyle found in Spain. In this article, we have compiled the most important rules of conduct for Argentina – so you will strike the right note in every situation.
Tipping – European conditions
One of the most burning questions when immersing yourself in another culture is certainly the one about the tipping rules of the destination country. Here you can stay relaxed in Argentina: In the restaurant you give 5-10%, in the cab you round up and guides are happy about a small obolus, which you can choose freely. European conditions.
OK is not OK, but an expletive
This does not mean the word “okay”, but the finger symbol. If you form a circle with your thumb and index finger and spread the rest of your fingers, in Central Europe you signal “everything is OK”. In Argentina (and also other parts of the world), this gesture stands for an expression of strength and should be avoided if possible.
Bussibussi society
One of the biggest differences between South America and Europe is the lack of fear of contact among South Americans. Wherever you look, people hug, grab your shoulder and give kisses. Here we can only advise you to put up with it – kisses on the cheek of husband and wife are merely an expression of the omnipresent cordiality with which people treat each other. It’s almost impossible to resist so much disarming friendliness, so open your heart and join in!
Punctuality is not a virtue…
Yes, nobody takes being on time very seriously in Argentina. On the contrary, if you are punctual, you should take a good book to wait for. Even at parties, no one expects you to show up at the specified time. One, two, even three hours late is perfectly normal and no one will hold it against you.
If you are in Argentina on business, however, foreigners are expected to be on time. Here, Argentines adapt to international customs and start their meetings as agreed.
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…vanity, on the other hand, does
Argentines place a lot of value on a well-groomed appearance. So if you don’t want to stand out, leave the comfortable backpacker pants in your backpack and get some fancier clothes.
In addition to a fashionable appearance, there is also a strong emphasis on personal hygiene and grooming. The smell of sweat is taboo, which is why many Argentines change their clothes and shower several times during the summer. Well-groomed hands and a good haircut round out your appearance and earn you respectful treatment and appreciation. Consider for yourself: Would you want to talk to a smelly, unkempt drifter in your home country?
Dinner? More likely midnight snack!
This is a tradition that the Argentines have clearly adopted from the Spanish: Dinner is not eaten until around 10 pm. When the heat of the day subsides and the weather becomes tolerably mild again, the Argentines start to feel hungry again. On weekends, they often eat even later – we also know the notorious long party nights from the Spanish.
Also in the style of Spain are the midday siestas, which bring all public life to a standstill, especially in small towns. In order to get back into the swing of things, Argentines take a coffee break around 5 p.m., during which sweet pastries or sandwiches are served in addition to coffee with milk. That way, you can keep going until late in the evening without starving.
Table manners are extremely important
Before your trip to Argentina, it’s best to read a guidebook on table manners, because they are scrupulously observed. Yawning at the table is almost unforgivable, elbows do not belong on the table and pizza is eaten with knife and fork. Only food that is clearly labeled as finger food (such as empanadas) is eaten with your hands.
In addition, there is no to-go mentality in Argentina. Coffee and sandwiches are not eaten while walking, but in the restaurant. So much time must be, even in the hectic everyday life!
You are not only traveling to Argentina, but around the world? Then you might be interested in our series on planning a trip around the world. Part 1 can be found here, the matching world trip packing list here. If your way should lead you also to Vietnam, you can read everything about the rules of conduct for Vietnam in this article. And if you are still looking for the right luggage: The Yukon will inspire you!
Quick facts about Argentina
- Official language: Spanish
- Type of state: Federal republic
- Population: approx. 44.3 million
- Capital: Buenos Aires (over 3 million inhabitants, without catchment area)
- Currency: Argentine Peso (ARS)
- Time zone: CET -4, UTC -3
- Climatic warmest period: November to March
- Telephone area code: +54
