COLOMBIA

Three Colombian Customs

By Marly Machacón Villarreal

A cup of hot chocolate with cheese cubes, making cucayo, the ñapa, bargaining when buying, taking your own avocado to lunch at restaurants and other customs I miss from my land. Three that I want to emphasize are talking to strangers as acquaintances, that good meetings end in dancing, and attachment to the family.

Although common sense will tell you who you can do it with, it is normal for strangers on the street to talk like they were acquaintances from before. If you´re going down the street and you have to pass in front of someone, you say good morning (or as the case may be). You can also say hello by commenting on the news of the moment; a mini-chat while waiting at a bus stop is considered polite.

Meeting of friends + the party = dance: I remember that, in a singing contest, my sister ended up in love with my opponent, in a dance that we did at my parents' house. It is said the meeting of four or more is good if it ends in a dance.

Last but not least, far or near, showing great affection to the family anywhere, being in communication, knowing what is happening from the mother to the great-grandfather … this is part of Colombian culture.

There is a great importance in socializing within the Colombian culture and the well-being of demonstrating empathy with others.