Guatemala
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Guatemala?
We asked people in Guatemala 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!...
"Sure, such as being at the cash register and telling the cashier when she was bagging the carton of eggs,"Ten cuidado con mis huevos" which translates to be careful with my balls. Foreigners tend to put the possessive on things, like my car and my eyes and my this and that which translates certain phrases differently in Spanish as noted in my example," commented one expat who made the move to San Pedro La Laguna, Guatemala.
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"It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting Guatemala. It is considered rude to point with your finger, so it is best to use an open hand when gesturing. It is also important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. It is also important to be aware of the local language and to avoid speaking English loudly in public. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local customs regarding physical contact, as it is considered inappropriate to touch someone without their permission. Finally, it is important to be respectful of the local culture and to avoid making jokes or comments that could be seen as offensive," remarked another expat in Guatemala.
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Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Guatemala?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Guatemala?
- Will I be able to find a job in Guatemala?
- What is life like in Guatemala?
- What do expats in Guatemala appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Guatemala?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Guatemala accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Guatemala like?
- What are healthcare services like in Guatemala?
- What are medical services in Guatemala like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Guatemala?
- What are emergency services like in Guatemala?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Guatemala?
- How are local medical facilities in Guatemala?
- As a foreigner living in Guatemala, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Guatemala?
If you live in Guatemala, newcomers to Guatemala would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
