Keep your belongings in site at all times
When I first arrived in South America I was robbed 5 times in the first year. Since then I haven't been robbed once. What changed? I still hear stories of people losing their belongings here on a daily basis so the continent surely has not changed. Clearly I've learned and stopped making the same mistakes I was making before. Never ever take your eyes off your belongings, always use the lockers in hostels and don't let yourself be distracted by locals. If you follow these rules you should be fine.
Bargain for the correct items
This one takes a little while to learn but believe me it will pay off to get it right. If you're in a market buying a t-shirt then don't hesitate to bargain. If you're in a restaurant or buying a cooked meal then don't bargain. If you are getting on a bus don't bargain. If you're at an internet cafe don't bargain. If you're buying lots of items from a street vendor then do bargain. It won't take you long to figure this one out.
Always tell a joke, be happy and show interest
South Americans love to smile, in all countries. If you open with a joke then your chance of good service will increase 10 fold. When speaking to someone ask their name and smile. Ask them a personal question perhaps, i.e. do they have any kids or a non-personal question that shows you confide in them, i.e. where is a nice restaurant nearby. You will be surprised at how different they will treat you if you treat them this way.
Respect their culture
Many countries in South America are very conservative and this should be respected. If you're invited out to dinner then don't wear board shorts and a singlet, a collared shirt and jeans are usually fine. Don't start ranting about your political ideologies to someone you've just met and be very careful discussing their history, i.e. Pablo Escobar and Che Guevara. It is very easy to offend people who are as patriotic as most South Americans. Talking about football can lead to an argument, as can the subject of money. If speaking Spanish or Portuguese then address taxi drivers and generally people you've just met in the formal tone.
Have a good time
Relax, have a siesta, do the stuff you can't do at home. Enjoy a beer with some locals, make sure to socialize. Put the lonely planet away and make your own adventure. Por fin, be South American for a while and enjoy life.
For more information regarding South America please visit my blog at http://www.southamericapundit.com/
ليست هناك تعليقات:
إرسال تعليق