-Here’s one for the books. A few days ago on a Latin Cruise ship voyage down South America way I witnessed an event that speaks volumes on what we gringos might generally describe as a demonstratively emotional culture.
-Are you planning to become an expat in Latin America in an effort to continue to live a first-world lifestyle? If you’re on a budget (aren’t we all?) or restricted to a $1200-$1500 a month SS check, you’ll find it harder and harder to pull that off of you’re in SOUTH AMERICA, that is, unless you are many miles away from any medium or large city and can adapt to the slow-paced rural life. Though admittedly, you can still do quite well in Paraguay on a SS check- even in Venezuela. But believe me, Venezuela’s a different ballgame and not for the faint of heart.
Reporting from a wild night at a strange (strange to us gringos) but typical (typical to the locals) Latin wedding. Yes, if there are any gringos in attendance at a Latin wedding they will act accordingly- give nice gifts etc., and follow the usual first-world customs. But get ready expats, you won’t believe your eyes when you see some of the gifts and presents that do occasionally come from the Latin side of the family.

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