Peruvians will stand much closer than you will probably like when in conversation. But it will be considered rude if you start backing away. And there is a fair amount of touching between men and men, men and women, and women and women while conversing. This includes hand on shoulders, hand on arms, and hand on hands.
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Do and don’ts of Peru?
Here we talk about the things you shouldn’t do when you visit Peru.
- Don’t Drink the Tap Water.
- Don’t Mess with Your Health.
- Don’t Freak Out About the Coca Leaves.
- Don’t Bring Home Any Coca Leaves.
- Don’t Think You Can Just Hop on the Inca Trail.
- Don’t Be Grossed Out by the Cuy (Guinea Pig)
What should you not do in Peru?
Do not travel to:
- The Colombian-Peruvian border area in the Loreto Region due to crime.
- The Valley of the Apurímac, Ene, and Mantaro Rivers (VRAEM), including areas within the Departments of Ayacucho, Cusco, Huancavelica, and Junin, due to crime and terrorism.
What are some examples of etiquette in Peru?
Peruvians tend to take great pride in their appearance and presentation. Most will wear nice clothing and will avoid wearing their old or dirty clothes in public. People may make a distinction between hora peruana (Peruvian time) and hora iglesia (‘English time’ or ‘on time’).
What are taboos in Peru?
Peru Travel Taboo
The import of raw ham from Italy and Portugal, and export of artistic or cultural articles, is prohibited. Calling someone over using an upward curled first finger in Peru is considered an insult.
Are Peruvians touchy?
Peruvians are super touchy-feely. It’s normal for them to greet others with a besito (cheek kiss), and it’s strange and a little rude if you turn it down for a handshake.
Is there a dress code in Peru?
In short, there is no formal dress code in Peru. On a day-to-day basis, there are no strict social taboos or religious requirements to consider when it comes to clothing etiquette. That said, there is still a deep-rooted sense of tradition and conservatism within Peruvian society.
Can you wear shorts in Peru?
Even though the temperature can get high, it is important to mention that local women never wear shorts in Cusco, so avoid bringing shorts or short skirts. Dresses or skirts that are medium or long length are fine to wear.
Can I brush my teeth with tap water in Peru?
Water from the tap is fine for washing your hands, showering, and brushing your teeth.
What are Peruvian people known for?
Peruvians are also known for their ceramics. Archaeologists have found ancient examples of both art forms in the remains of civilizations like the Nazca.
Can you wear jeans in Peru?
Peru Clothing Style
A good clothing item to bring to Peru year round is jeans. You’ll be glad you did.
How do Peruvians greet?
In Peru, greetings are very important because they emphasise that an individual is acknowledged and welcomed. The most common greeting is a handshake. The handshake is usually light and accompanied by eye contact. Handshakes are particularly prevalent when meeting someone for the first time and in formal settings.
What are Peruvian values?
Peruvians tend to be highly collectivistic and share a sense of solidarity. People are often interdependent and will often prioritise the needs of their group over personal desires. This sense of solidarity shines through during times of adversity.
What is dating like in Peru?
Peruvians tend to start dating when they are in their mid to late teenage years. Young couples tend to meet at school, community events or parties. Group dating is prevalent among the youth, whereby a group of single men and single women will organise an outing, with the hopes of forming a romantic partnership.
Do Peruvians kiss on the cheek?
Peruvian greetings and introductions are generally accompanied by a handshake or a kiss on the cheek. A firm handshake is customary between men, while a kiss is standard practice in most other situations. Peruvians kiss each other once on the right cheek. Kissing on both cheeks is unusual, so keep it nice and simple.
How do you say cool in Peru?
Chévere. A word for “cool” or “great” that is heard in Peru (as well as other countries like Colombia and Venezuela) e.g. “Sería chévere ir a la playa” – “it’d be cool to go to the beach”.
What is the main food in Peru?
Ceviche. It’s Peru’s national dish, the best versions of this marinated fish dish are in Lima and it’s the freshest, zestiest and healthiest dish you will ever have.
Do they speak English in Peru?
English is not widely spoken overall in Peru, with an estimated proficiency of around 10% or less. However, it is spoken more in Lima, Cusco, and other major central tourist spots, and by tour guides and younger people.
Are Peruvians affectionate?
Peruvian families are popular for their hospitality and can be very affectionate. The Peruvian sense of privacy is a little different than other cultures, but that’s just because Peruvian families enjoy each other’s company very much!
What do girls in Peru wear?
In general, within Peruvian women’s traditional clothes, the main elements are dresses, blankets, tunics, skirts, and hats. Keep in mind that each suit or article of clothing can differ greatly from one region to another since each city and town has its own qualities.
Is the water safe to drink in Peru?
Is it safe to drink tap water in Lima and Peru? No, it is not safe to drink tap water in Lima or the rest of Peru. However, it is safe to drink boiled water or filtered water. This gives travelers and citizens several options for getting their drinking water.