Dating in Peru is a mix of traditional and modern approaches. Family plays a central role, so meeting parents happens relatively early. Public displays of affection are common among younger couples in urban areas, but more reserved in rural regions. First dates often involve exploring historical sites or sharing ceviche at a local restaurant. Peruvians…
Peruvian Spanish is rich in unique expressions. “Chévere” means cool or great. “Pata” is used for friend or buddy. “Huachafo” describes something tacky or in poor taste. “Causa” isn’t just a potato dish, but also means friend. “Bacán” expresses that something is awesome, adding color to Peruvian conversations.
Peruvian Spanish is rich with unique nicknames. “Pata” is a common term for “friend.” “Chato/a” (snub-nosed) is a term of endearment. “Huachafo” describes someone or something tacky or kitsch. “Churro” can mean handsome for men. “Serrano” literally means “from the mountains” but can be used derogatorily for indigenous people.
Peruvian Spanish has its peculiarities. “¡Qué paja!” means “How cool!” not “What straw!” “Estar misio” means to be broke. “Hablar hasta por los codos” (To talk even through one’s elbows) means to talk excessively.
Peruvian proverbs capture the wisdom of the Andes. “Más sabe el diablo por viejo que por diablo” (The devil knows more from being old than from being the devil) values experience. “A Dios rogando y con el mazo dando” (Praying to God but hammering away) encourages action alongside faith. “El que no tiene de inga,…
Peruvian music is as diverse as the country’s geography, from Andean folk to Afro-Peruvian rhythms. The haunting sounds of Andean panpipes and charangos are exemplified in the music of Lucho Quequezana. Chabuca Granda’s compositions, like the iconic “La Flor de la Canela,” beautifully represent coastal criollo music. In Afro-Peruvian music, Susana Baca has gained international…
Peruvian humor often features wordplay and cultural quirks. A classic Peruvian joke: “¿Por qué los peruanos no pueden ser astronautas? Porque no hay ceviche en el espacio.” (Why can’t Peruvians be astronauts? Because there’s no ceviche in space.) This plays on the importance of ceviche in Peruvian cuisine. Another popular joke is: “¿Cómo se dice…
Peruvian Spanish varies between coastal, highland, and jungle regions. Coastal Spanish is similar to standard Latin American Spanish, while highland Spanish shows strong Quechua and Aymara influences. The dialect generally uses “tú” for informal address. Distinctive features include the abundant use of the diminutive “-ito” and words like “pata” (friend) and “chamba” (job).
Peruvians show affection with warmth and creativity. “Mi vida” and “corazón” are popular terms of endearment. “Cholito/a” can be used affectionately. The diminutive “-ito/a” is very common, as in “flaquito/a” (skinny one). Hugs and a single cheek kiss are typical greetings among friends and family.
Peruvian Spanish proverbs often reflect the country’s diverse cultures and landscapes. “A Dios rogando y con el mazo dando” (Praying to God while wielding the mallet) advises combining faith with action. “Más sabe el diablo por viejo que por diablo” (The devil knows more from being old than from being the devil) values experience. “El…