How’s Your Español Etiquette?

Spanish 101

Hello: Hola
Good morning: Buenos dias
Good afternoon: Buenas tardes
Good evening/night: Buenas noches
Yes: Sí
No: No
Please: Por favor
Thank you: Gracias
You’re welcome: De nada
Where is the bathroom?: ¿Dónde está el baño?
Do you accept dollars?: ¿Aceptas dólares?
Do you speak English?: ¿Habla usted Inglés?
I don’t speak Spanish: Yo no hablo Español
How much does this cost?: ¿Cuánto cuesta este?

Customs and Tips:

• When asking for directions or information, it is respectful to begin a question with “disculpeme” (excuse me), and then ask the question. 
• It is polite for you to ask for the bill after your meal. Restaurant servers won’t bring the bill until the customer asks for it. It’s considered rude to just bring it — they feel like they are asking the guest to leave.
• Tips are not included; the suggested amount is 15%.
• Teach your children to say “Voy a Lagunamar por favor” or “Voy a Westin Los Cabos por favor” in case they get lost or separated from you. They could get in a taxi, say this to the driver and be taken to the resort. If on resort property, they should learn your villa number in Spanish.
• Use biodegradable/organic sunscreen. All of the eco-parks, reefs, water parks, dolphin swims, etc. require eco-friendly sunscreens. Or wear sun-protective clothing for constant protection for both you and the environment.
• The market is not always the best place to purchase gifts. Vendors normally start with a high price expecting the customers to bargain. There are established souvenir stores with fixed prices so you don’t overpay.  

 
Take a few moments to study these tips while on the way to your resort, and by the time you arrive, you’ll be ready to make the most of your Mexican vacation. ¡Disfruta tu estancia! Enjoy your stay!