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Mexican
Customs One may find that interaction between
men and women in Mexico differs slightly from other countries.
Here, physical contact is more common than, say, in the U.S.
To Mexicans, greetings and farewells are a big deal.
In a business context, shaking hands is
the norm, both between men and women. For other occasions,
men may initiate physical contact such as holding the arm
of the other or giving each other an “abrazo,”
which is just a warm hug accompanied by hearty back-slapping
and which could be followed by a handshake. Women will greet
each other with a kiss on each cheek, and this is the way
men greet women in informal meetings. Such contact is normal
and does not imply or mean anything further than a greeting
or farewell.
Mexicans generally stand at a much closer
physical distance when conversing than foreigners may be
accustomed to. It would be considered rude to step back.
Mexicans also tend to speak a lot with
their hands, gesturing for emphasis. It would also be considered
rude to mimic them.
Generally both men and women enjoy each
other’s company and may openly acknowledge this with
a dazzling smile, and be warm and flirtatious. This may
not necessarily mean anything though and can be considered
as being part of Mexican nature. It will of course, depend
on each particular situation, but don’t jump to hasty
conclusions.
Machismo in Mexico
Traditionally, Mexico
was known as one of the societies in which men have been known
for their macho and chauvinistic behavior towards women. This
however, has been changing with time much less of this sort
of attitude is seen nowadays.
Even so, standards are not what you
may expect to find in the U.K. or in the U.S. and women,
especially if traveling alone, can expect flirtatious comments
to be called her way.
This is referred to as “piropeo”
and is quite common not only in Mexico, but in other Latin
American countries and even in Spain. Although this may
seem rude or annoying, generally no harm is meant and is
simply a natural way for men to express their admiration
for women.
These flirtatious comments are called
"piropos", and some of the most common
include the traditional “mi amor!”
or “guapa!”
Dating
in Mexico
Dating and courtship rules have gradually been changing throughout
the world as time has gone by. This is evident in some countries
more than others. Mexico is on its way to becoming a modern
country, but with romantic issues, one will still find that
many of the Mexican are still more traditional in this aspect.
Even so, especially among teens, it is becoming more and more
common for both girls and boys to ask each other out and split
the cost of the evening’s outing and entertainment.
Flirting
Flirting, as anywhere else in the world, is basically communication.
It involves getting the right message across. Remember:
Modest
behavior is appreciated and flaunting superiority, intelligence
and ability is generally regarded a turn-off.
Personal
appearance, image and human relationships are very important
so be sure to put some thought into your outfit and attire
as well as your greetings and farewells if you’re
interested in making a good impression.
Apart
from your behavior, looks and body-language, words form
an important part of flirting. That’s where knowing
the language comes in handy. This is just another of the
many possibilities that speaking a language can bring you
closer to.
