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Medellin, Colombia

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

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We asked people in Colombia 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!...

"It is important to try to avoid making any negative comments about Colombia's past conflicts or suggest that there is still violence present. Additionally, it is considerd disrespectful to dispute with or criticize a person's religious beliefs. It is important to use formal language when addressing someone and to take off your hat when entering a church or a private home. It is also recommended to dress modestly and to give a gift such as flowers or chocolates when attending a social gathering or an event. It is inappropriate to whistle at women and it is important to avoid using offensive language or gestures," said another expat in Colombia.

"Yes said to a man's wife "su esposa..esta caliente?" which is " Is your wife hot? (is she a "hot piece"?) They say "Su esposa tiene calor"? which is "Does your wife feel the heat?"," wrote a member who made the move to Buga, Colombia.

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Other Questions:

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

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

Medellin, Colombia

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Take the stress out of immigrating to Colombia by working with an experienced, bilingual immigration attorney.
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