PDA-OKAY

One of the first things that a visitor of Santiago may notice is that couples are definitely afraid of showing their affection for one another in public. In the U.S., this is usually only seen at clubs or at parties, but here it's a normal part of life. For me, it's always been normal for people to kiss in public since showing affection is a part of our Chilean culture. I have noticed that it is a lot more taboo in the states to do these sorts of things, and I really have no idea why. One of the things that I think surprised some of the DukeEngagers is the fact that couples make out everywhere and every time of day; it's almost impossible to go on a metro ride without seeing a couple and their PDA (public displays of affection). A lot of people who aren't used to this feel uncomfortable being around these individuals, but why?

I think that being in love (or thinking you are in love) is one of the most beautiful things a person can experience and as long as they aren't going too crazy, we should learn to accept the romantic ways of Latin America. Back in the states I always grew up hearing about "personal space," but I never quite understood this concept of getting too close to a person. Being back in Chile has definitely made me realize that my comfort level being close to strangers on public transportation and my perhaps romantic mindset may just be a result of my Chilean/Latin culture.

After all, we do always sign our letters and messages with:

Besitos - Kisses,

Christy