Local Customs & Etiquette in Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires, Argentina, Buenos Aires, Local Insights & Practical Info, Local Customs & Etiquette

Local Customs & Etiquette in Buenos Aires, Argentina

1. Greetings

In Buenos Aires, a kiss on the cheek is a common way to greet friends and acquaintances. This practice is important to understand to avoid awkwardness in social situations.
  • Type of Greetings: Even men greet each other with a cheek kiss, denoting friendship.
  • Handshake: A handshake is used for formal occasions, showing respect.
  • Personal Space: Keep proximity casual yet respectful when greeting.

2. Tipping Practices

In Buenos Aires, it is customary to leave a 10% tip at restaurants. Knowing this helps you fit into the local dining culture smoothly.
  • Currency: Tips should ideally be given in Argentine pesos.
  • Method: Leave tips in cash; credit card tips may not reach the server.
  • Location: Tipping in fast food places is not customary.

3. Argentine Asado

BBQ gatherings, known as asados, are a staple social event. Understanding this helps travelers engage in local social activities.
  • Participation: Be prepared to join in conversation and socializing.
  • Timeliness: Arrive on time but expect the event to run late.
  • Food/Dietary Preferences: Inform your hosts if you have dietary restrictions.

4. Mate Sharing

Sharing mate, a traditional tea, is a cultural ritual in Buenos Aires. Accepting or declining a share is a sign of camaraderie and friendliness.
  • Sharing Etiquette: Sip all the mate before passing the gourd back.
  • Hygiene: Sharing the same straw (bombilla) is common; do not wipe it.
  • Declining: Politely decline if uncomfortable sharing drinks.

5. Meal Times

People in Buenos Aires typically eat late; dinner often starts after 9 PM. Knowing this helps travelers plan their schedule better.
  • Lunch: Typically served between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM.
  • Dinner: Heading to restaurants early may find them empty or closed.
  • Snacking: Merienda, an afternoon snack, is common around 5 PM.

6. Dress Code

Porteños (residents of Buenos Aires) often dress smartly. Recognizing this helps travelers avoid standing out unnecessarily.
  • Casual Outings: Even casual outings can warrant stylish attire.
  • Business Meetings: A dress code is often business casual, not overly formal.
  • Social Gatherings: Dressing well is interpreted as respect and appreciation.

7. Argentine Spanish

Buenos Aires residents speak Spanish with an Italian flair, known as Rioplatense Spanish. A basic understanding assists in better communication.
  • Pronunciation: ‘LL’ and ‘Y’ are pronounced as 'sh', not like the typical 'y' sound.
  • Vocabulary: Some words are unique to Buenos Aires slang, known as Lunfardo.
  • Pace: The accent is rhythmic and somewhat melodic.

8. Public Transportation Etiquette

Locals queue politely for buses; pushing ahead is frowned upon. Learning this ensures a smoother commuting experience.
  • Cashless Payment: Use a SUBE card; cash is not accepted on buses.
  • Giving Up Seats: Offer a seat to elderly, pregnant, or disabled passengers.
  • Quietness: Keep conversations quiet when using public transport.

9. Restaurants

In Buenos Aires, asking for the bill is considered polite, or it may not be brought automatically. This knowledge helps avoid unnecessarily long waits.
  • "La Cuenta": Say “La cuenta, por favor” to request the bill.
  • Sharing Plates: It's common to share plates and taste different foods.
  • Reservations: Necessary at popular or fine dining spots.

10. Personal Space

Porteños tend to stand closer in conversation, more than in some Western cultures. Understanding this helps avoid discomfort.
  • Eye Contact: Maintain it to show engagement and interest.
  • Touch: Light touches on the shoulder or arm may happen.
  • Gestures: Avoid folding arms or hands in pockets, which may seem closed-off.

11. Punctuality

In social settings, being fashionably late is common. Knowing this helps manage expectations around agreed meeting times.
  • Amount of Lateness: Arriving 15-30 minutes late is often acceptable.
  • Business Context: Punctuality is more important and expected.
  • Communication: Inform if running excessively late, as a courtesy.

12. Soccer Passion

The locals’ enthusiasm for soccer is vigorous and immersive. Understanding this aids in connecting with local passions.
  • Game Days: Many businesses might slow down or close.
  • Conversations: Soccer can be a great conversation starter.
  • Club Affiliation: Know the local clubs, like Boca Juniors and River Plate.

13. Street Markets

Bartering is common practice in local street markets. This helps travelers secure better deals and engage with cultural practices.
  • Politeness: Always be courteous even during negotiations.
  • Currency: Ensure to have small change or lower denomination bills.
  • Prices: Be ready for starting prices to be marked up.

14. Dining with Friends

It's common to split the bill evenly, known as "a la romana." Knowing this prevents awkward payment discussions.
  • Preparedness: Have cash ready for splitting bills.
  • Rounding: Bills are commonly rounded up for simplicity.
  • Group Dynamic: Discuss payment style before ordering.

15. Political Conversation

Locals are enthusiastic about political chats, but it's wise to remain neutral. Knowing this prevents uncomfortable discussions.
  • Sensitivity: Be cautious discussing local and international politics.
  • Listening: Show respect by listening more than speaking.
  • Local Understanding: Avoid strong opinions on subjects you aren't fully informed about.

16. Siesta Culture

Though not as prevalent as in other parts of Latin America, some businesses may close for Siesta in Buenos Aires. Planning around stall times aids in managing schedules.
  • Business Hours: Some shops may close from around 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
  • Alternatives: Plan activities that don't require business services during siesta.
  • Adaptability: Be flexible with shopping or dining plans.

17. Smoking

Buenos Aires has stricter smoking laws; smoking indoors is often prohibited. Knowing this helps avoid conflicts and fines.
  • Locations: Only smoke in designated areas or outdoors.
  • Cigarette Offers: Decline politely if you don't smoke; sharing is common.
  • Respect Signs: Watch for non-smoking signs in cafes and public spaces.

18. Street Performers

Buenos Aires is known for its vibrant street performers. Observing them can be a cultural highlight, and proper etiquette includes tipping.
  • Appreciating Art: Clap or cheer after performances to show appreciation.
  • Tipping: Have small bills or coins ready to tip.
  • Photographs: Ask for permission before taking pictures of performers.

19. Local Honesty

Porteños are known for their straightforwardness, which can be mistaken for rudeness. Understanding this can lead to more authentic interactions.
  • Conversations: Expect candor in discussions about opinions.
  • Humor: Humor might be direct, so take jokes lightly.
  • Feedback: Appreciate their honesty in feedback.

20. Queuing

Queuing is generally respected and enforced, especially at bus stops and banks. Respecting this custom ensures orderly interactions.
  • Enforcement: Security or staff may oversee queue management.
  • Orderliness: Approach from the back and avoid cutting in.
  • Patience: Expect longer lines during peak hours.