Communication and relation in Cartagena de Indias
Spanish is the language spoken in Cartagena and few English nor
French. Amiability in relations ease contacts to get along well.
The Spanish on the coasts of the Caribe is different from
traditional Spanish because Colombians from the region speak “costeno”.
Some basic words in Spanish will be appreciated from Colombians
and you’ll be surprised of the words they know in French and
English, mostly those working with tourists.
Often, sellers can be harassing, but rarely disrespectful. You
can also be impatient with people, but remember the hot days in
Canada, would you like to decelerate or accelerate your
activities?
Tip those not exist in
Colombia
Don’t forget that in Colombia, there isn’t any culture in
offering a tip, which doesn’t help the servable relations and
also the sharing of richness. But, if you desire give a tip,
then we suggest you to give it BEFORE the service because people
will never expect getting a tip… and then you’ll be served
differently and with care.
Important! Check you restaurant and bar bills in order to see if
the dealer inserted “a 10% gratitude” voluntarily. This practice
is denounced by the government and the waiters don’t receive
this 10% which is usually kept by the accountant. Simply ask for
it to be removed.
Ø Canadians traveling to Cartagena in 2009-2010 – Useful information
Claude Lasanté
http://www.cartagena-indias.com
