It has been three months since I arrived in Lima, and it has been quite an experience! While I here, I have been able to observe some cultural differences beyween the United States and Peru.
Timing is a good example of one such cultural difference. They have this thing called "Peruvian time" meaning that Peruvians will always be late to an event. This is because Peruvians value conversation with one another more than they do being on time. That is also why, on Sundays when people are typically with their family, they usually leave home late because they like the connection that they are having with everyone. Actually Sunday is a family day in Peru; that is why the streets are not as packed because everyone decides to be with their families on that day.
Recycling is another clear cultural difference. The Peruvian government has taken the initative to recycle bags. Therefore, if a customer in a store wishes to use a plastic bag to place their purchases in, the store owner will charge them for this. That is why everyone here has their own shopping bags made from cloth. Although some states in the U.S.A. are adopting similar practices, maybe we can start doing this more consistently back home.
