1. Central and South America The Caribbean North America

2. General Protocol Close proximity
Shaking hands both on arrival and departure
Hearty abrazo (big hugs) for men; kiss on cheeks for women
A thirty-minute delay is customary (except Chile).
Avoid making appointment on the first day of arrival at the high altitude countries.
Ecuador; Columbia; Mexico (Mexico City)
Lunch is the main meal of the day. (bad for appointments)

3. Gift giving is customary.
for women: perfume (?), name brand items
for men: name-brand novelties or accessories
Personal items (e.g. ties & shirts) should be avoided as gifts.
Argentina; Colombia
Flowers and good wine are suitable gifts.
no yellow flowers in Mexico; no purple flowers in Brazil
Toasts are common (Host first; guests follow).
Proper attire (jacket and tie)

4. Strong coffee is served.
Brazil; Colombia (black coffee)
Machismo prevails in certain countries.
(Honduras; Nicaragua, Panama)
Conversation topics:
local folklore; customs; heroes; sports (soccer)
avoid local politics or religion

5. The Caribbean Diverse language and culture
English is the prevailing language.
Hand shaking is customary.
Prior appointments are advisable, but people are not necessarily punctual.
Informal table manners
Casual warm-weather clothing
Stand respectfully when the national flag is raised and lowered at 8 a.m. and 6p.m.
Close proximity is observed in Puerto Rico.

6. North America