Culture Quiz - Mexico

Written and prepared by Cultural Awareness International, Dallas

Mexico tends to be a "touch-oriented" culture. (True)

When greeting a Mexican, they may extend the normal time allotted to a handshake, or touch the person's arm or elbow. This is not an invasion of someone's space. It is simply an expression of friendship.

When a meeting time is "a la gringa", it is expected that you be punctual. (True)

"A la gringa" implies strict punctuality. "A la mexicana" means that the appointed time is less severe.

Mexicans usually eat a large meal at the end of the day. (False)

Lunch is typically taken from 2pm to 3:30pm, and is the largest meal of the day.

Mexican art and literature are good conversation topics at a dinner party in Mexico. (True)

Your interest in the local culture is always appreciated. It is best to avoid criticizing the Mexican government and politics, money, or make disrespectful comments about Indians. Mexican Indians make up 90% of the population in Mexico.

It is best to not be obvious in admiring a particular object in someone's home (True)

Gift-giving is a form of relationship building. The host may feel obliged to give you the object you admire.

In a business situation, you may use first names with your colleagues and superiors. (False)

First names should never be used until you have been invited to do so.

Mexicans never speak of their personal life at business meetings. (False)

Informal discussion usually precedes a meeting. Mexicans enjoy getting to know their business acquaintances on a personal level prior to a working relationship.

Grocery shopping is often done on a daily basis. (True)

Many households plan their menus one-day ahead, creating the need for daily shopping. However, the convenience of the large supermarket is slowly replacing the smaller, specialized shops.

Taxis are safe anywhere in Mexico. (False)

Taxis should never be hailed in Mexico City. Assaults on passengers are common. Only accept to take a taxi that has been ordered through a major hotel or reserved beforehand at the airport.

In other Mexican cities, taxis are generally safe. Make sure that the taxi is equipped with a "taximeter" and seems to be in good working order.

All Mexican men must train in the Army Reserve or the National Guard. (True)

At the age of 18, one year of training is obligatory.

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