Greetings are essential
A kiss on the right cheek between men and women, and women greeting women. Handshake between men. Always greet everyone individually when arriving at a gathering.
🤝 Etiquette in Colombia
Etiquette in Colombia is mostly invisible until you break it. Greetings, gestures, dining manners and the social cues locals expect are worth learning before you arrive.
In Colombia, etiquette comes down to a few things: greetings are essential, don't mention drugs, and time is flexible.
Don't mention drugs
Colombia is deeply tired of narco stereotypes. The country has moved far beyond that era. Don't make Pablo Escobar jokes. It's insensitive and dated.
Time is flexible
Social events start late. 'Colombian time' adds 30–60 minutes. Business meetings are more punctual in Bogotá, less so on the coast.