Without wishing to tell you how to behave in Peru, sometimes it is better to
know local mentalities; better knowing people is sometimes better appreciating
them, even better understanding them. Know that:
In general, people use the "tu" form, no matter the social standard
but not with older people.
Kisses and hugs are usual between men and women.
Always respect law people (police officers). We call them Jefe
(chief).
To be called El Gringo is not pejorative at all and it's not only
for Americans.
If you go to a restaurant and your order is bigger than your appetite, the
waiter will ask you maybe if you'd like to take the rest with you, it's normal
here. Don't be too proud and accept so you can give it to someone needy outside.
A happy person is worth any personal embarrassment. Of course, do not give
only a little bit of sandwich because everybody has a certain pride.
Peruvians use to put a stone on top of the hill they pass; you could see
then monticules, sometimes impressive along the roads.
Peruvian is very "first degree". Speak always in first degree,
trying to avoid negative sense; "it is not bad" will be understood
as "it is almost bad". "It's not far" should be just said
"it's near".
If a Peruvian shakes your hand is that he appreciates you. If he hugs you,
he is a cousin or he likes you very much.
There are lots of salesmen and beggars in the streets, in general they expect
a coin for a given service or sold item (clean the window, sell candy). There
is not a special recommendation, just remember this is always to eat.
Tip is always given in restaurants and bars, even if it's already included
in the check. If you wish, you can tip for 5 to 10% of the total amount.
Indians not generally appreciate to be taken in pictures; most of them believe
that the picture takes away their soul. Ask for authorization before, they
will often ask in return a small reward. Obviously, this is not about very
pretty Indians, very well dressed, with a llama on one hand, they are there
just for that.
Driving in Peru deserves a whole page; you need to know that on a very largo
road with multiple lanes on the same way, everybody changes lane very often
not only for trespassing. Turning warnings are not respected and some drivers
prefer to use their arm: when it's extended, is for a left turn, when it's
up is for a right turn and when it's down is to stop.
Every family or house of a certain social group has house keepers or nannies (niñeras).
We recognize these ones by their blue or white uniforms.
One of the most important financial incomes of the country is tourism: it
provides money and a bit of dream. Even if you don't buy anything, people
will enjoy talking with you about your country, which most of them will never
know. Anyway you will be well treated because the Peruvian has a jovial and
welcoming character.
