Nicaragua
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Nicaragua?
We asked people in Nicaragua if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"It is important to be aware of cultural norms when visiting Nicaragua. Being mindful of other peoples’ culture, customs and language is essential to showing respect. To help you avoid making a cultural faux pas, some things to avoid include wearing revealing clothing in public, pointing your feet (or any part of your body) at someone as this is considered rude, discussing sensitive political topics, touching people without their permission, accepting food or drinks with both hands, being loud and boisterous in public, and engaging in aggressive bargaining practices," commented one expat who made the move to Nicaragua.
William RussellGet Quote
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 RussellWilliam 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.
Get Quote
"Mostly language stuff. I would say muy bien for "things" when I should have been saying muy bueno. I started mixing the Italian language with Spanish by accident. Words that I've heard my mother use slipped out of my mouth and didn't make sense to the person I was attempting (very badly attempting) to communicate with. My friend kept catching me on making up words in my desperate attempts to communicate. It made everybody laugh," remarked another expat in Managua, Nicaragua.
Please login to continue reading this article.
Not a member? Join Today (it's free).
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Nicaragua?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Nicaragua?
- Will I be able to find a job in Nicaragua?
- What is life like in Nicaragua?
- What do expats in Nicaragua appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Nicaragua?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Nicaragua accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Nicaragua like?
- What are healthcare services like in Nicaragua?
- What are medical services in Nicaragua like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Nicaragua?
- What are emergency services like in Nicaragua?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Nicaragua?
- How are local medical facilities in Nicaragua?
- As a foreigner living in Nicaragua, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Nicaragua?
If you live in Nicaragua, newcomers to Nicaragua would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
