National traditions of Bolivia. Habits, mentality and the way of living

Status "the most" applies to Bolivia more than to any other country. It is the highest country on the continent. The largest and highest freshwater lake is located here. There is the largest number of official languages here – 37 (Spanish and Native American). The largest number of Injuns of both the Americas lives here. There have been more coups here than in any other country. Also, Bolivia, rich in natural resources, is the poorest country in South America. The historical legacy of both the Spanish colonization and earlier evidence of the existence of the powerful Inca Empire on this territory has left a huge mark on the beliefs, myths, way of life, and attitude to the world of local residents.

Modern inhabitants of the country are mostly Injuns (more than 60%). The remaining groups are represented by mestizos from mixed marriages. The main religion in the country is Catholicism. The legacy of Spanish rule influenced this. The legacy inherited from the ancient civilizations of America is carefully preserved. The various regions of Bolivia differ not only in their climate but also in the predominant ethnic groups that live in these territories. The situation is so complicated and sensitive that tourists traveling in the Eastern part of the country (agricultural) should exclude the word "Injun" from communication. The locals call themselves "Campesinos", meaning simply "farmers".

There is a division of status in society. This is strictly observed when communicating. Local residents appreciate the signs of attention and respect. They will respond with absolute friendliness to the sincerity and interest shown. But they sense the slightest falseness. They are offended by it and don’t give the response to such communication. Bolivians will not conflict if tourists do not observe local customs and made a mistake. However, you should not disregard the norms of behavior and play on religious feelings. Excessive pride in local residents can cause problems. The inhabitants of the country are extremely good-natured, completely unobtrusive (which distinguishes them from residents of other poor countries), and are not vindictive despite all the nuances of communication with them. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The vast majority of Bolivians dress in a peculiar mix of styles and colors. The exception is representatives of a fairly wealthy population group living in cities. Men wear suits and hats. Women's outfits vary depending on their region of residence and status. Most often these are wide skirts, decorated with many frills, a jacket, a large shawl, and the obligatory English bowler hat on the head. Women have long hair. They plait them in two braids. Local residents allow themselves to be photographed quite willingly. But you must ask permission to do this (this applies more to women).

The peculiarity of this country is that the vast majority of the territory is located in the highlands. Therefore, there is a constant lack of oxygen here. The locals have adapted to such conditions for hundreds of years. But they still tone the body. They use Coca leaves for this purpose. This aspect of local traditions causes the greatest number of disputes among Europeans. After all, the leaves are recognized as a source of narcotic substances. However, Bolivians do not take into account other people's opinions on this issue. They use Coca everywhere. Its leaves are chewed, brewed into tea, and added to some dishes.

The prison in La Paz is an unusual place in Bolivia. This is probably the most unusual prison in the world. This is a real city with high walls. The entire territory is divided into districts. There is a President in each of them. His words are absolute law here. Therefore, there are no fights and showdowns at all. There are streets with shops and workshops here. Prisoners can earn their own maintenance and improve their living conditions. Some of them even live in families. Their children go to an ordinary city school.

There are quite a few shops and supermarkets in the country. The population prefers to buy basic goods in numerous markets. They buy food from women who sell it on the streets. You can bargain with the seller when visiting the market. You can get a bonus to the purchased product for this. There are no beggars and starving here, despite the fact that Bolivia is considered the poorest country on the continent. Streets are well maintained in most localities. The exceptions are poor neighborhoods in large cities. There is a bit of garbage on them. There are also no slums in the global sense. You won't find cardboard boxes converted to housing here. Houses are built thoroughly in Bolivia.

The vast majority of residents do not look particularly neat in their worn, shapeless national clothes in everyday life. It is customary to wear the best clothes only for big holidays or carnival. Bolivians are calm about the lack of basic household amenities in their homes. There is no toilet, hot water, and electricity. Most of those who can afford to improve their living conditions do not do it. They do not consider this aspect of life important and necessary.