Not much can really be said about the Australian and New Zealand etiquette. They have manners, but they are much more relaxed and less formal than most other countries. (I heard Australians even go to work in shorts!)

In New Zealand, specifically, people may start off with a formal tone, but that formality will almost certainly disappear. So will its volume. They are known to be softer and are not usually noisy. Where you rank in the business hierarchy is rarely important, except if you own the business, of course. And while they may be part of the Australian continent, they really dislike being called Australians.

In Australia, specifically, warm and friendly people use firm handshakes and openness and frankness when speaking. And if they don’t agree with something, they will almost certainly talk about it. Australians don’t care much about personal distinctions or class structure as they are very informal. However, timeliness is highly appreciated, but not critical. Australians also keep their sense of humor, even when things are pretty tense.

In South America specifically, Spanish is spoken everywhere except in Portuguese-speaking Brazil. Unlike Australia, South America is less inclined to worry about time and punctuality. Socially, they are quite close together and touch (and expect to be touched in return), which is a culture shock for other countries. They eat their largest meal for lunch, around noon. Lastly, social conversation and topics of a personal nature (i.e. talking about yourself) are usually more interesting to them than your business and representation of your company.

In Central America, Spanish is the most widely spoken language. Like their counterparts in South America, they are also less time-minded and more concerned with you personally than as a company representative. Central Americans are also a closer and more sensitive crowd. They eat their main meals at noon.

In Mexico, specifically, it is customary to shake hands, as in most other places. Unlike South Americans, Mexicans see titles as something important. Things you shouldn’t do? Wear violet (your death color), joke about “Montezuma’s Revenge” or put your hands on your hips.

In the Caribbean, in general, handshakes are common, as is English, the main language of the region. Of course, some residents have rather intriguing accented English. The pace of life is much more relaxed in the Caribbean, so table manners are much more casual, punctuality is not critical, no exchange of gifts is required, and business begins with a long social conversation. Business cards, however, are very important.

In Puerto Rico, specifically, gifts are exchanged and opened immediately. Being close is customary, and backing away is considered quite impolite. Although English is widely spoken, speaking at least some Spanish is greatly appreciated.