What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Bogota?

We asked people in Bogota 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!...

"When I was learning to speak Spanish I did two things; I told a woman she was hot, meaning very beautiful, but when you say chica caliente here it means that she is a woman who likes to go to bed with a lot of men. OOPS! then I entered a restaurant and asked for un beso con agua instead of un vaso con agua. A kiss with water instead of a glass with water. It was kind of embarrassing, but I did get kissed," said a member in Bogota, Colombia.

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"It is important to be mindful of cultural norms when visiting Bogota. It is considered impolite to be late for appointments or social engagements, so it is important to arrive on time. It is also important to dress modestly, as Bogota is a conservative city. Avoid using profanity in public, as it is considered rude. Additionally, it is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions, and to be aware of the local laws. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local customs regarding tipping, as it is not customary to tip in all situations," remarked another expat who made the move to Bogota, Colombia.

What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Bogota?

If you live in Bogota, newcomers to Bogota would love to hear your answer to this question.