What's the etiquette for meeting a British woman while in Spain?

Question

Here in Spain, it's customary to give a woman a kiss on both cheeks. In Britain, it's the handshake. I've tried to give the two kisses just as I would all the other women and received complete surprise. Very awkward. On other ocassions, I've initiated a hand-shake and been told I'm being cold and making them stand out.

Is there a solid, law of gravity-style, works all the time rule for this? At this point, I think I'll just make it a point to stand at the other end of the longest table and give the old wave and get on with it.

Answer 1

A Nice friendly smile is all that we need, too soon for the kissy stuff on the first meeting we like our space for 5 minutes till we know you a little bit better on the other hand shaking hands is for weddings and conferences and offices

Answer 2

My way with all women is to offer my hand, lead slightly forward. If she leans sufficiently forward, offering a cheek, then a kiss is appropriate.

I think your tactic of being at the end of the longest table is spot on.

Answer 3

A friendly smile and a nod ought to do it unless SHE initiates the handshake or the kiss. In both cases where you handled it wrong, you didn't wait to take your cue from the lady herself. But any awkwardness can be defused by a little self-deprecatory laugh. There was a funny moment caught on camera during the Olympics where someone who was accustomed to the two-kiss routine met someone who was accustomed to the three-kiss routine. The latter was left groping in the air for the uncompleted gesture. But no one felt bad about it.

Answer 4

Bend her over the Arc de Triomf

Answer 5

DO both - hold out your hand to shake hands and then lean forward and kiss both cheeks - easy peasy.

If they are from Essex - just wear shorts and sandals and shout 'Oi, Darlin', fancy a Becks and a snog'.

Answer 6

That's nothing. Upon meeting a South Eastern Tierra Del Fuegan asexual lady - who's been to Bognor Regis  (whilst visiting North Korea) you would be expected to (according to local custom) get on your knees, gently (and, with her permission) lift her skirt, extend your nostrils, and (again with permission) 'sniff' her 'website.' Provided "gravity" is on your side! Nota Bene: Goodbye 12 points.

Answer 7

Buy her a Pimms and ice....