What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Guayaquil?

"I used to translate "you know what I mean" to "si me entiendes" and people would just nod politely but give me a weird look... later I was informed that "si me entiendes" sounds condescending to the other person in Spanish because the context of the sentence implies they are not bright enough to follow my chain of thought-- I was told to use "si me explico?" which translates to "am I explaining myself? " which puts the responsibility of any misunderstanding on my shoulders," said a member in Guayaquil, Ecuador.

William Russell
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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"It is important to be respectful of local customs when visiting Guayaquil. When visiting religious sites, it is important to adhere to the expectations of modesty and to dress appropriately. Additionally, it is important to show respect to the local population and to avoid any negative remarks about the country, its history, its culture or its people. Moreover, it is important to remember to ask for permission before taking photos of people or of national monuments and to be mindful of any disputes related to the nation's complex political and social history," remarked another expat who made the move to Guayaquil, Ecuador, Ecuador.