Etiquette tips: being polite in Spanish
A few small habits make a big difference. People are warmer and more patient with travelers who get these right.
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Greet before you ask
Walking into a shop, a taxi or even a lift? Say hello first. Jumping straight to your question can seem rude.
- Buenos díasGood morningSay it: BWEH-nohs DEE-ahs
- BuenasHi (short for buenas tardes/noches)Say it: BWEH-nahsFriendly and works any time of day.
- Con permisoExcuse me (to get past someone)Say it: kohn pehr-MEE-soh
- ¡Buen provecho!Enjoy your meal!Say it: bwehn proh-BEH-chohSay it to people eating as you pass their table, or as you leave.
- Adiós, que tenga un buen díaGoodbye, have a nice daySay it: ah-DYOHS, keh TEHN-gah oon bwehn DEE-ah
Usted or tú?
Spanish has two words for “you”. Usted is polite: use it with strangers, older people, staff and officials. Tú is friendly: use it with people your age once you've chatted, and with children.
- ¿Cómo está usted?How are you? (polite)Say it: KOH-moh ehs-TAH oos-TEHD
- ¿Cómo estás?How are you? (friendly)Say it: KOH-moh ehs-TAHS
- ¿Puede ayudarme?Can you help me? (polite)Say it: PWEH-deh ah-yoo-DAHR-meh
Not sure? Use usted. Nobody minds being treated politely, and they'll tell you if they'd rather you used tú (“¡Tutéame!”).
Hello kisses and handshakes
- Latin America: one kiss on the right cheek between women, and between men and women, once you're introduced. Men usually shake hands.
- Spain: two kisses, right cheek then left.
- Business or formal: a handshake is always safe.
Meal times
| Spain | Mexico and much of Latin America | |
|---|---|---|
| Breakfast | 7–10 am, light: coffee and toast | 7–10 am, often hearty |
| Lunch | 2–4 pm, the main meal | 2–4 pm, the main meal (la comida) |
| Dinner | 9–11 pm | 8–10 pm, often lighter |
Look for the set lunch: menú del día in Spain, comida corrida in Mexico, almuerzo ejecutivo or corrientazo in Colombia. Two or three courses and a drink, for a good price.
Paying and tipping
- Waiters won't bring the bill until you ask. Lingering is normal, so ask with “La cuenta, por favor.”
- Tipping varies a lot by country. Each destination guide says what's usual there.
- Keep small notes and coins. Many market stalls and taxis can't change big notes.
Small things that help
- Public toilets are baños or servicios. In some places they cost a few coins, and paper may be outside the stall.
- Time is relaxed socially: being 15 minutes late to a friend's party is normal. Tours, trains and appointments run on time.
- Say gracias a lot, and try your Spanish first. Even a few words are appreciated.
Keep learning
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