Meeting & Gift Giving Etiquette

It is customary to welcome the oldest or most important person first during formal opening greetings. A simple handshake will do, as will direct eye contact and a warm grin. Eye contact signals interest by remaining open. In a small gathering, wait for your host or hostess to introduce you to others since Uruguayans typically prefer third-party introductions. As you depart, bid each person a fond farewell.

Prior to the event, it is customary to bring flowers or sweets to a Uruguayan who has invited you to dinner at their home. However, if you do not have the chance to do so, bring your gift with you. Gift-giving is not really a part of Uruguayan tradition, but if you do decide to bring one, keep it modest and think about bringing something from home or your hometown, like a fine bottle of Scotch. Gifts are unwrapped right away.