Etiquette
To the people of El Salvador, manners and etiquette are very important. People behave a certain way to come off as an educated and considerate person. Some customs would be considered strange and unorthodox in other countries, but its part of the culture. To start off, when you see someone, you greet them according to the time of day. If its the afternoon, you say "Buenas tardes", meaning good afternoon.When first meeting a Salvadorean, they should be addressed with their job title. Their honorary title may be used, as well, meaning "Senor", "Senora", or "Senorita". Their surname is used with their title. If the person is named Pedro Martinez and is a doctor, they will be addressed as "Doctor Martinez". Their formal names must be used, until the other person says its okay or you have known them for a while and are comfortable with them. Close friends and familyhug and kiss each other when greeting. When meeting for the first time, women will shake hands and/or hug. Men will wait for the woman to extend her hand before grabbing and shaking it. On to another aspect, when talking to an elder, people younger than the elderly individual will address the other person by using the formal "usted", instead of "tu". Using "usted" means you have respect for the other person and want to be considerate of them.
During social events, it is considered polite to do certain things. For example, leaving right after eating, when invited to another person's home, is impolite. Staying and talking for at least half an hour is customary. It is not necessary, but bringing food, flowers, or a small gift to another person's house is always welcome. Presents are commonly given on birthdays, Christmas, (sometimes) New Year's, and religious events. If a gift is given, it is almost always opened when received. Marigolds and lilies, although pretty, shouldn't be given as a gift, as they are associated with funerals and death. Its best not to send that that kind of message. Before eating, the host will say to everyone "Buen Provecho", meaning have a good meal. Its polite to say thank you, after the host says this. Making small talk during dinner is appreciated and well-mannered. However, avoid topics like business, unless asked about it. It shows the other person you are friendly and willing to talk. Once finished, its a custom to say "Gracias a Dios" or grace. It is said to everyone in your company.
During social events, it is considered polite to do certain things. For example, leaving right after eating, when invited to another person's home, is impolite. Staying and talking for at least half an hour is customary. It is not necessary, but bringing food, flowers, or a small gift to another person's house is always welcome. Presents are commonly given on birthdays, Christmas, (sometimes) New Year's, and religious events. If a gift is given, it is almost always opened when received. Marigolds and lilies, although pretty, shouldn't be given as a gift, as they are associated with funerals and death. Its best not to send that that kind of message. Before eating, the host will say to everyone "Buen Provecho", meaning have a good meal. Its polite to say thank you, after the host says this. Making small talk during dinner is appreciated and well-mannered. However, avoid topics like business, unless asked about it. It shows the other person you are friendly and willing to talk. Once finished, its a custom to say "Gracias a Dios" or grace. It is said to everyone in your company.