Culture and customs in Colombia: key facts
As a location to teach English, Colombia is one of the most exciting places in the world. Understanding the culture will help you settle in and connect with your students and local community. Here are five key things to know:
Late = “on time”?
In Colombia, meeting times tend to be more relaxed. Events often start later than advertised, and arriving up to half an hour “late” is common in most social situations. However, don’t expect this to happen in professional environments, including schools. As a teacher, being on time is being late!
Festivals mean everything
Colombia has a busy social calendar for English teachers to enjoy, with festivals and celebrations celebrating its diverse and unique culture. For example, the Carnival of Barranquilla is world-famous, with dancing, colourful parades and dazzling costumes. Like Spain, Semana Santa (Holy Week) is widely observed, with Colombia being predominantly Catholic. Popayán is particularly famous for its Holy Week celebrations.
Festivals can be disorientating at first, but if you have a sense of adventure and are keen to integrate into the local culture, they’re an essential part of life in Colombia.
Meals
Food plays a central role in Colombian culture. If lunch is your favourite meal, you’re in luck, as it’s also Colombia’s favourite. Meals are seen as a time to relax and talk, and are a great way to get to know your colleagues.
In Spanish-speaking countries like Colombia, the slow, social aspect of dining is referred to as la sobremesa. While you might be inclined to get up and put your dishes away after you finish a meal, wait and keep chatting.
Politeness
This is true everywhere, but how you present yourself and talk to people while teaching ESL in Colombia is extremely important. You don’t necessarily need to be fluent in Spanish, but friendly greetings like “Buenos días” or “Buenas tardes” matter to Spanish speakers. Formal titles also matter, especially when meeting someone for the first time.