Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Life in Argentina
Throughout Latin America, Argentines endure a reputation for being cocky.
'How does an Argentine commit suicide?' goes the old joke. 'By jumping off
his ego.' Traveling to Argentina, you'll find a nugget of truth in this stereo-
type. But you'll also realize that a warm and gregarious social nature more
accurately defines the Argentine psyche.
Argentines almost always exchange a kiss on the cheek in greeting - even among men.
In formal and business situations, though, it is better to go with a handshake.
Regional Identity
Opinionated, brash and passionate, generally speaking, Argentines are quick to engage in
conversation and will talk after dinner or over coffee until the wee hours of the morning.
But they also hold a subtle broodiness to their nature. This stems from a pessimism
they've acquired watching their country, one of the world's economic powerhouses during
the late 19th and early 20th centuries, descend into a morass of international debt. They've
endured military coups and severe government repression, while witnessing their beloved
Argentina being plundered by corrupt politicians. But melancholy is just a part of the pic-
ture. Add everything together and you get a people who are fun, fiery, opinionated and
proud. And you'll come to love them for it.
SOCIAL DOS & DON'TS
When it comes to social etiquette in Argentina, knowing a few intricacies will keep
you on the right track.
Dos
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Greet people you encounter with buenos días(good morning), buenas tardes
(good afternoon) or buenas noches(good evening).
»
In small villages, greet people on the street and when walking into a shop.
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Accept and give besos(kisses) on the cheek.
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Use usted(the formal term for 'you') when addressing elders and in formal situ-
ations.
