As the saying goes: When in Rome, do as the Romans do. Following this logic, when you’re in Argentina, eat, sleep and say it how it is. Below, we have compiled a cheat sheet to clue you in on some of the cultural nuances that make Argentina so very Argentine.
Hellos and Goodbyes
Entering a room full of Argentines takes a while. As is the custom, you should go around and say hello and kiss everyone once on the cheek. Repeat as you leave. And yes, we mean everyone in the room, including babies. If you decide to slink out without the kisses, be aware you run the risk of seeming rude or cold.
Asado
Grilled over the embers of poplar trees, asado (bbq) is a staple in the diet, social and family life of nearly every Argentine. In fact, Argentina’s per capita consumption of beef is way off the charts. Eating a stunning average of 150 pounds of red meat a year, Argentines consume double the USA’s average and almost quadruple England’s.
Siesta
While passing out for hours after a big lunch may not generally be socially acceptable back home, here taking a siesta may even be considered a compliment to the chef! Even during the week it’s common to go home for lunch (the biggest meal of the day), see family and catch a few zzz’s. Because of this, the workday ends around 8 p.m., but it’s considered worth it for quality of life. Besides, most of the stores are closed from 1 p.m.- 4 p.m., so you might as well take a snooze!
Dining
Thanks to the siesta, you may actually be able to keep your eyes open at dinner, which may begin as late as 11 p.m.! This local schedule may actually work in your favor, as it is never a problem to get a table at 9 p.m., though most likely your fellow diners will be foreigners.
It’s not just the late start that makes dinner an endurance activity. Argentines also usually partake in what’s called the sobre mesa or “over the table,” which is basically an extended chatting time after the meal. It´s very rare for a waiter to hover or rush a table out; in fact you usually have to go to extreme lengths to get the bill.
Sex Separation
Another notable difference at gatherings here in Mendoza is the separation of the sexes. While it’s not always the case, it isn’t odd to see all the males of a group on one side of the table, with all the females on the other. When asked why the dining sex segregation exists, most Argentines give the same answer, “So can men talk about what interests men and women can talk about what interests women.”
Punctuality (or lack thereof)
It is not a big deal to be late. In fact, the more time you’re here, you’ll come to expect it. Outside of tourist excursions and buses, nothing runs like clockwork. Invitations that say 9 p.m. should really be translated as 10 or 11 p.m. This is not considered rude, it’s just how it is. If your instincts won’t let you show up late, do yourself a favor and bring a book because you’re going to be waiting for a while.
Football/Soccer
Fútbol, as it’s known here, is the national passion and has the power to capture the whole country’s attention. International offices are shut down, streets are abandoned and appointments cancelled during the World Cup. On an average Sunday, it is normal to watch hours and hours of soccer after a big asado, especially, but not exclusively for men.
Political Correctness
In general, Argentines are not worried about political correctness, from other people or themselves. We assure you, in no other place would someone so readily admit to being 30, overweight and living with their parents.
According to your weight, you are labeled either gordo/a (fatty) or flaco/a (skinny). Despite the bluntness, these comments do not regularly inspire anxiety or weight complexes. In fact, weight is an open topic that is regularly commented on by locals. Friends and family members make you immediately own up to a few extra pounds and will probably try to serve you an extra helping if you are looking a little thin.
Age isn’t off limits either. Many people even mention this taboo subject in conversation of their own accord. If you have dark skin and hair you will be called negro/a (darky) and you don’t even have to have blonde hair to be a rubio/a (blondie); all it takes is light skin. This call-it-how-it-is honesty doesn’t stop there. Just consider yourself lucky if you aren’t called pelado/a (baldie) or enano/a (shorty/dwarf).
Also, Spaniards are gallego/a (Galician), Arabs turco/a (Turkish) and all Asians chino/a (Chinese). The same follows suit with Americans; despite the many years since the end of the Civil War, they are known as yanquis (Yankees).
Romance
It’s quite normal here to live at home until reaching the age of 30 or marriage, whichever comes first. It is rare for “children” to move out of the house before that, even to study. Most stay in the city they were born, keeping family ties strong. It is not, however, normal to be single until you’re 30, which makes for awkward dating sleepovers. But Argentina’s got an answer for that as well… introducing the telo. These “romance hotels” are reserved by the hour or the night and aren’t nearly as sketchy as they sound. Like hotels, there are options for every budget. The level corresponds to price, the highest of which may include jacuzzis or even themed rooms.
Mate
Pronounced “mah-tay,” this beverage is made from yerba mate leaves steeped
in hot water drunk from a hollowed-out gourd with a metal straw. It tastes somewhat like a rustic green tea and it seems there are no situations that don’t call for it: the beach, at home, at soccer matches, with friends in the park, at the office, etc. It can be drunk with or without sweetener, though for many outsiders as well as some locals, without may be considered too bitter.
