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La puntualidad |  |
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Making arrangements, either en el trabajo, at work, or en tiempo libre, in leisure time, can be a complex affair for those new to Hispanic culture. Most Spanish and Latin American people would freely admit that their perception of time is much more fluid than in other parts of the world. Generally speaking, it's perfectly acceptable to observe the 'fifteen minute' rule - make an arrangement and then arrive about fifteen minutes later than promised. These fifteen minutes are fairly elastic, stretching to half an hour on some more informal occasions. Indeed, many Spaniards will encounter a culture shock when living and working away from home, having to adjust to a more rigorous northern European or American timetable. Among close associates, it is recommended that, when setting times for appointments, you ask "¿La hora inglesa, o la hora española?" - English time (i.e. promptly at the time specified) or Spanish time? (i.e. if I say 7 o'clock, don't be surprised if I don't show up until 7.30 or even later). Consequently there is a certain flexibility built in to all schedules and arrangements. Las reuniones, meetings, and indeed el día de trabajo, the entire working day, can often last a lot longer than you might expect. |
There is a saying in Spain that the only things that occur on time are the bullfights and theatrical performances. In all other situations, from a business meeting to a friendly get together,