A different way of thinking

Now we all know that each culture is different from the next. But even knowing that, I've still been struck with the many small differences in the way people do things here. One of the most difficult things for me to get used to (though admittedly, I never forget it) is the fact that when you're paying for something, you better have exact change. If you hand the cashier a large bill, he will look at you as though you're crazy and ask if you have the exact amount. Sometimes the cashier actually appears irritated if you don't have it! My question is...how, then, am I supposed to get change for the next time?

Portugese people (like the rest of the world, lol) are a lot less hurried than Americans are. In fact, they will stand 10 deep or so in line at the grocery store and wait patiently for exact change to be counted out and given to the cashier. No grumbles or rolling eyes, much less outward shows of impatience. Similarly, I have seen 5-7 couples standing in line outside a restaurant waiting to be seated, when open tables can clearly be seen and no hostess or waitress is in sight. Again, not a grumble to be heard.

And on the whole, they are an extremely polite and friendly race. People driving by wave at you from their car, and when passing by everyone exchanges "good day"s. More than once on my walk home I have passed a group of people in conversation and one or more of them has broken off to look at me and say "Bon Dia". And then there is beijinhos ("little kisses"). I've visited several churches, and at each one someone who is just meeting me gives "little kisses" on each cheek. It's one of their greetings; thankfully one that I already knew about and actually rather like! :-)

My favorite thing is the clothes. Like other European countries, most people dress nicely to do anything. It isn't too common to see people at the mall in jeans, let alone pajama pants like we see in Ameria. One doesn't see a lot of sweatshirts or t-shirts either, even on the racks at stores. That's too casual for most people...I love it! What IS on the racks at stores is adorable; I've already bought more than one article of clothing and pulled myself away from several more. :-) Hopefully it will all fit in my suitcases on the way home....