You Know You’re Becoming a Porteño When…

by Rease Kirchner

Buenos Aires is the home of many ex-pats and the resting spot for many travelers. The citizens of Buenos Aires (Porteños) have some distinct habits and it’s pretty easy to fall into the typical Porteño routine. This is for all those foreigners who are turning into Porteños. You know you’re a Porteño when…

1. You actually like fainá
2. You put on a coat, scarf and gloves when it drops to 60°F (15°C)
3. You don’t leave the house just because it is raining
4. You walk with your eyes fixed on the sidewalk (to avoid dog poop)
5. You accept that all old women can cut in any line at any time
6. “On time” means any time within 25 minutes of the agreed upon meeting time
7. You consider dulce de leche an integral part of any meal
8. Ketchup is the spiciest condiment you can handle
9. You allot 2-4 hours for any errand that involves the post office
10. You refuse to do anything other than relax, drink mate and perhaps sun bathe on a Sunday

Rease is a US citizen currently living the ex-pat life in Buenos Aires, Argentina. She is bilingual and an experienced traveler. She loves gaining and sharing knowledge of local cultures, customs and adventure.