Socializing

Nicaraguans shake hands and say Mucho gusto de conocerle when meeting someone for the first time. ("It's a pleasure to meet you"). They might also ask, "How are you?" or How are you? (Both phrases mean "How are you?" but the first is more formal.) Buenos da! ("Good morning!"), Buenas tardes! ("Good afternoon!"), and Buenas noches! ("Good evening!") are common greetings. The informal greeting hola! is popular among young people. (“Hi!”). Close friends hug and pat each other on the back, and men greet each other with a firm handshake. A kiss on the cheek is the standard greeting among female friends.

To show respect, elders and those of higher social standing are addressed with titles such as Seor ("Mr."), Seora ("Mrs."), or Seorita ("Miss"). The titles Don and Doa are used with a man's and a woman's first names to express special respect, familiarity, or affection.

Nicaraguans are warm and welcoming to strangers. Personal admiration is valued more than compliments on one's possessions. It is customary to bring a gift to special occasions such as anniversaries, birthdays, and Catholic ceremonies such as baptism or confirmation, and it is appreciated when guests invited to dinner bring a gift of flowers or candy.