Electricity220 volts, 50Hz. US flat two-pin plugs and one with
round grounding pin are used. LanguageSpanish is the official language, but only 60 to 70% of
the people actually speak it, and then often only as a second
language. The other main languages are Quechua and
Aymar. TippingA service charge is normally added to restaurant and hotel bills
but it is customary to add a 5 to 10% tip. Hotel porters also
expect a small tip. Taxi drivers are not usually tipped unless they
are hired for a full day, in which case 10% is acceptable. Safety InformationArray Local CustomsIn conversation rural Bolivians should be referred to as
campesinos (subsistence farmers) rather than Indians. 'Machismo' is
very much alive and husband and wife roles within the family are
very traditional. Homosexuality is frowned upon, particularly in
the Altiplano. BusinessRelationship building in Bolivia is important and getting down
to business might take some time, so do not rush things.
Negotiations are generally quite slow, and face-to-face
communication is preferred over phone calls or written
communications, therefore be prepared to make many trips before a
deal can be made. Punctuality is expected, even if the meeting
doesn't start on time, and schedules are often just a guideline and
fairly unstructured; deadlines are not important. Business people
are expected to wear suits. Meetings begin and end with handshakes,
although wait for a woman to extend her hand first. It is important
to include a person's professional title in the greeting if
applicable, otherwise use Señor (Mr) or Señora (Mrs) with the
surname. Business cards should also include any academic
qualifications, and should have one side translated into Spanish;
most business is conducted in Spanish and materials will need to be
translated into Spanish. Women are considered insubordinate in the
workplace and visiting businesswomen should ensure to emphasise
their qualifications and work ex
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