Final answer:
In Chile, the common greeting among friends is an air kiss on the cheek. Cultural norms surrounding greetings can cause culture shock to those unfamiliar with the local customs. It is important to be aware of and respect these traditions when engaging with different cultures.
Step-by-step explanation:
The customary greeting among friends in Chile is generally an air kiss on the cheek. This form of greeting is quite common in many Latin American countries and varies slightly from one region to another. For example, the air kiss is typically one kiss on the right cheek, which is a way to show warmth and friendliness. The etiquette is different from other social norms around the world, such as patting on the shoulder, shaking hands, or in some cultures, men kissing each other on both cheeks, which can lead to culture shock when encountered for the first time by people from different cultural backgrounds.
In comparison to greetings that involve handshakes or a pat on the shoulder, the air kiss in Chile is more personal and reflects the socially warm nature of personal interactions there. This contrasts to some cultures where handshakes are the norm. In certain contexts, men may greet other men with a handshake, but with close friends and family, the air kiss prevails.
Cultural norms, such as greeting rituals, provide a fascinating glimpse into the customs that define a society. It is always important for travelers and those interacting with different cultures to be aware of and respect local customs to avoid misunderstandings.