Nicaragua Mission Trip

Culture and Customs

This information comes from the El Ayudante web site: 

• Learn as much Spanish as you can and use it every chance you get. The Nicaraguans love for you to try to speak their language.
• Nicaraguans like to hug and give "abrazos", women often kiss on one cheek. Handshakes are usually soft and gentle. A solid handshake may seem overpowering and even rude to them.
• Take time for polite conversation before talking "business". Nicaraguans are not as forward as people from the U.S.
• Be prepared for worship services that are very different from those you are accustomed to - very informal.
• Latin Americans are Americans just as we are. They are sensitive to people from the U.S. claiming the name "Americans" for themselves.
• Make no promises to the staff, pastors, or others that you cannot keep.
• Be sensitive when taking photos.