Flirting in a Spanish speaking could be a bit different from what you are used to.

Depending on where you come from, flirting could be acceptable in some social situations but not in others.

In this article, we will be analyzing the differences between flirting in western culture and in Spanish/Latin culture.

Remember each Spanish speaking country has different phrases and accents, but they all share some cultural similarities.

Needless to say that you should remain respectful and polite and learn the basics of each place before you jump right into the action.

Let’s start with an example.

In modern politically correct western culture, assuming you are a guy, it would be unprofessional to say to your female co-worker “You look beautiful today”

Read ‘Spanish travel: tasty dance‘

In Spanish/Latin culture it would be taken as a compliment.

You won’t see your co-worker running to HR accusing you of sexual harassment.

Of course, it depends on the circumstances, and how it happened but as a general rule it is less likely that would happen.

So when do you know when it is appropriate and when it is not?

 

 

Generally speaking, you have to remember that Spanish/Latin cultures are more tolerant regarding compliments.

People use them much more casually and many times are not even noticed in a day to day conversation.

Saying something like:

Hola linda (hi cutie)

Que guapo (how handsome)

Te ves bien (you look good)

All the above are considered completely normal, and no one would even bat an eye if you say any of those to a person you just met.

People are also much more touchy.

Second example, you are out for drinks with your co-workers.

Suddenly, the hipest reggaeton song starts playing loudly at the bar you’re at.

All your male co-workers grab the nearest girl and start dancing wildly.

This is quite an intense song, to put it mildly. 😀

In Latin culture there wouldn’t be any problem with this, people would never ever say:

“Oh no, I am not dancing to this tune with my co-workers, it would be unprofessional”

My head would explode if I ever hear that phrase in Spanish. 🤯

In Mexico, for instance, it would be completely normal for you to salsa-dance with a complete stranger in a club as long as both parties agree to do it.

That doesn’t necessarily mean that he/she expects you to sleep with him/her afterwards.

Read ‘Get massive saving learning Spanish‘

It is part of the seduction ritual for you to discover who is flirting with you and who just wants to dance or is being nice to you.

However, chances are they are.

Spanish/Latin culture are much more direct and overt in their intentions than their modern-western counterparts.

They don’t just stare at you and praise to the Lord that you notice them.

As it could be the case in northern Europe.

Usually, people have a more hands-on approach when flirting.

It is most likely they will jump right at you and start making conversation.

Believe us when we tell you:

You will know 😉 when they are flirting.

So, what to do if someone is flirting with you and you don’t like that person?

Remember that in the Spanish/Latin culture the approach is more direct.

Therefore, the best way to reject an invitation would be to also be very direct and clear.

I’ve seen way to many western girls trying their best to politely explain to the guy that is flirting with her for half an hour that she is not interested.

This could be a time-consuming process and you could actually just be giving him false hope, in his mind.

Read ‘How to flirt date and love in authentic latin style‘ by Nearshore Americas.

Which would be the most useful phrases if you want to practice your flirting in Spanish you ask?

Top 5 phrases for flirting in Spanish.

Me Gustas = I like you

Quieres una cerveza? = do you want a beer?

Note: “Qu” in Spanish sounds similar to a “K” in English

Quieres bailar? = do you want to dance?

Como te llamas? = what is your name?

Vamos a otro lado? = should we go somewhere else?

It is extremely likely that if someone tells you one of the above phrases they are hitting on you.

Read ‘18 Spanish phrases for dating‘

However, remember that just like anywhere else, consent and respect is always necessary.

I hope this short flirting in Spanish session has been useful and you use it in your next trip!

Read Baselang.com’s article on the topic ‘The best romantic expressions or chat up lines‘