🤝 Etiquette in Mexico

Etiquette in Mexico is mostly invisible until you break it. Greetings, gestures, dining manners and the social cues locals expect are worth learning before you arrive.

In Mexico, etiquette comes down to a few things: greetings are essential, politeness is elaborate, and tipping is important.

Greetings are essential

A kiss on the cheek (one) for women meeting anyone, handshake for men meeting men. Always greet every person in a group individually. Skipping someone is very rude.

Politeness is elaborate

'Con permiso' (excuse me), 'mande' (pardon/go ahead), 'provecho' (enjoy your meal, said to strangers eating nearby). These phrases are used constantly and sincerely.

Tipping is important

10-15% at restaurants, a few pesos for bag packers at supermarkets, gas station attendants, and parking attendants. These tips are a meaningful part of workers' income.

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