Intro to Argentinian Culture
Culture shock is inevitable, let’s minimize that.
Argentinians have a culture of sharing. The most striking example of this is drinking and sharing mate. Argentinians drink a lot of mate and share it within the group. The entire social group drinks from the same straw. Of course, in the worst waves of the pandemic, they did not do this. You can refuse, but if you accept, take care to drink all the mate. Though they’ll probably know you’re not from the culture and be ok with it. Couples, families, and friends can share drinks in general. Double dipping is the norm, not the taboo. Met up with a group of new people? It’s likely someone will offer to share some food or drink.
Argentinians commonly greet with a hug and a kiss to the side of the cheek. Many know many foreigners are uncomfortable with this, however. As a result, sometimes they’ll offer you a handshake. Note that it is rude not to greet at the beginning and end of a social gathering. However, again, they will know that you’re not from the culture and probably take no issue with it.
Argentinians think of time differently than you’re probably accustomed to. Dinner is at earliest at 9 PM. They have an equivalent of tea time (merienda), which takes place around 4-6 PM. Some businesses aren’t open from 1-5 PM, which is called siesta hours. If you’re going out for food at 6 PM, expect to get the lunch or merienda menu and mainly cafés to be open. Argentinians will be on time (within 5 minutes) for business, but arrive late to social events. They’ll also plan social events within the same day.
Argentina’s conversational norms are probably different than what you’re used to, also. Interrupting is the rule, not the exception. Politics isn’t a taboo topic. There is little to no small talk. Argentinians require less personal space – expect less distance between you and your audience. Argentinians aren’t very formal. This is not to say they’re disrespectful. Everyone is a vos (informal you), except for people in suits (usted, formal you). Formal attire is rare, even when going out.
To summarize
Argentinians are warm and friendly. Punctuality isn’t a value, but in business situations they’re reasonably punctual. Greetings are a hug and a kiss to the side of the cheek and personal space is minimal. Argentinians aren’t very formal, but this doesn’t mean they lack respect. And finally, there’s a culture of sharing. Of course, you’ll find other odds and ends, but I don’t want to spoil those. Now, onto planning that trip 🙂
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