One of the cultural shocks visitors have when coming to Uruguay, is the wide use of kissing (on the cheek) for greeting people. Visitors coming from USA for example, are astonished when someone kisses them when saying “hello”. There is an awkward moment when one extends the hand but the other person is already diving in and too close to even see your hand extended.

But kissing between people does not happen ALL the time. There are some situations where the hand shake is used. So… what to do then? How do we determine when a kiss is appropriate?

Let me tell you my formula, starting by the basic rule:

Opposite sexes kiss, equal sexes shake hands

That is the main rule. But like every other rule, it has exceptions, and that depends on the situation and the people involved.

If the situation is very formal, with people meeting for the first time, a man and a woman should shake hands. If some level of trust is achieved between the two individuals, then kissing can be used.

If the people involved are good friends, then kissing is customary between same sexes. Yes, man to man too. In this case, you should see what kind of connection you have with the other person of the same sex.

These rules will get you through the most of greeting situations. If you find yourself without knowing what to do, then go for the hand… and play it by ear.

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