Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid in Spanish-Speaking Countries

By Milagros de la Horra

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November 11, 2025

Contents

Introduction

1. Thinking All Spanish-Speaking Countries Are the Same

2. Using “Tú” Instead of “Usted”

3. Rushing Meals or Asking for the Bill Too Soon

4. Ignoring Personal Space and Local Gestures

5. Skipping Greetings and Goodbyes

6. Dressing Too Casually in Rural or Religious Places

7. Speaking Too Loud or Interrupting

8. Using Slang Without Knowing Its Meaning

9. Saying “No” Too Directly

10. Assuming Everyone Celebrates Holidays the Same Way

Final Thoughts: Respect Builds Connection

Introduction

Traveling to Spanish-speaking countries is a great way to see the world, meet new people, and practice your Spanish. But to enjoy your trip fully, you need to understand cultural etiquette. Every country has different social norms and what’s normal at home might be strange or even rude in another place.

This guide helps you avoid common cultural faux pas in Spanish-speaking countries. Travel with confidence and respect. Whether you visit Mexico, Spain, or Latin America, a few simple rules can make a big difference.

1. Thinking All Spanish-Speaking Countries Are the Same

One of the biggest cultural mistakes is assuming that every Spanish-speaking country is just like the others. But in reality, each country is unique.

For example, social etiquette in Latin America is different from what you’ll find in Spain. Even within Latin America, there are big differences between countries like Argentina, Peru, and Colombia.

Etiquette tips for travelers:

Before your trip, learn a little about the country’s culture, language, and customs. This helps you avoid misunderstandings and shows respect.

2. Using “Tú” Instead of “Usted”

In many places, using informal language with someone older or someone you don’t know well is a big no-no. Using tú instead of usted can come across as disrespectful, especially in Mexico, Colombia, or Central America.

In Spain, people often use tú, but it still depends on the setting.

Travel faux pas tip:

When in doubt, start formal and let the other person lead the way.

3. Rushing Meals or Asking for the Bill Too Soon

In Hispanic cultures, meals are more than just food—they're social events. Asking for the bill too early or rushing can feel rude.

In many Spanish-speaking countries, lunch is the main meal, and it can last for hours. In Spain, dinner might start at 9 or 10 p.m.

What not to do:

Don’t treat meals like fast food. Relax, talk, and enjoy. Always say “buen provecho” before eating, it’s like saying “enjoy your meal.”

4. Ignoring Personal Space and Local Gestures

Not all body language means the same thing everywhere. In some countries like Chile or Argentina, people may like more personal space. Also, gestures like the “OK” sign or pointing with one finger might be rude.

What to do:

Watch how locals act. Some places use cheek kisses to say hello, while others prefer handshakes.

5. Skipping Greetings and Goodbyes

Things you should never do in Spanish-speaking countries include walking into a shop or room without saying hello. It’s considered cold or even rude.

Cultural etiquette tip:

Say hola, buenos días, or buenas tardes when entering. Say adiós, nos vemos, or hasta luego when leaving, even in small settings.

6. Dressing Too Casually in Rural or Religious Places

Travelers can make cultural mistakes in Mexico and elsewhere. For example, wearing beach clothes or shorts in churches, small towns, or formal events is often frowned upon.

Taboos in Hispanic cultures include wearing clothes that are too revealing in conservative areas.

What not to do:

Don’t wear tank tops or swimwear outside the beach. Pack light, modest clothes that show respect for local traditions.

7. Speaking Too Loud or Interrupting

In many Spanish countries, being loud or cutting people off in conversation is seen as rude.

Travel etiquette in Spain and other places encourages more relaxed, respectful conversations.

Social etiquette tip:

Take your time. Let others finish talking and enjoy the natural flow of conversation.

8. Using Slang Without Knowing Its Meaning

Slang changes from country to country. A word that’s friendly in Mexico might be offensive in Argentina.

Example:

Guay (Spain) means “cool,” but it’s not used in Mexico.
Pedo in Mexico has many meanings, some rude.
Che is friendly in Argentina, but might confuse others.

Etiquette tip for travelers:

Ask locals before using slang so you don’t say something embarrassing.

9. Saying “No” Too Directly

In many Spanish-speaking places, saying no too directly can be seen as rude. People prefer to be polite, even when they disagree.

What to say instead:

Quizás después – Maybe later
Estoy lleno, pero gracias – I’m full, but thank you
Lo pensaré – I’ll think about it

Cultural etiquette tip:

Be soft and kind in how you respond, it helps keep things friendly.

10. Assuming Everyone Celebrates Holidays the Same Way

Cultural mistakes also include talking about holidays the wrong way. Not every country celebrates Día de los Muertos or even cares about Cinco de Mayo.

Travel faux pas:

Don’t assume you know the meaning behind a holiday. Instead, ask:

¿Cómo celebran este día aquí?– How do you celebrate this day here?

Showing interest shows respect.

Final Thoughts: Respect Builds Connection

Understanding social norms in Spanish-speaking countries is key to being a respectful traveler. By avoiding common cultural faux pas, you’ll show kindness, humility, and care traits that locals will appreciate.

Following travel etiquette in Spain or social customs in Latin America can help create better experiences and friendships.

Learning about taboos in Hispanic cultures is important. It helps you avoid embarrassment. It also shows your interest in the people you meet.

For tips on travel etiquette in Mexico, remember to respect social norms. This helps you avoid cultural mistakes and builds trust and connections.s.

At Comligo, our language courses cover real-life situations, cultural etiquette, and regional slang. So, you’re not just learning Spanish; you’re learning to live it.

Be more than a tourist, be a respectful traveler. ¡Vamos!

Milagros de la Horra

Academic Team

Milagros De La Horra is a Spanish teacher from Rosario, Argentina, with experience teaching learners of all ages. She brings her background in creative writing, editing, and literature into the classroom. Passionate about culture and language, Milagros uses games, videos, and poetry to create engaging, meaningful learning experiences.