thanks to David Sasaki for this
Ecuador has many customs. Greeting people is one of the most important. It should be the first thing out of your mouth when meeting most people. North Americans tend to be blunt and want to get right to the point. That is considered rude in this country. A common greeting is just saying “Buenos Días” or “Buenas Tardes” to people you meet. Another form of greeting is a handshake with direct eye contact and a smile. Being polite, friendly and showing respect can go a long way. Acting arrogant will impress no one.
People who are close greet in a much more tactile manner. Men embrace and pat each other on the shoulder (called an “abrazo”), and women kiss once on the right cheek. Always let the Ecuadorian determine when to move to this level of closeness. Always refer to people by the appropriate honorific title (Señor or Señora) and their surname. In general, only close friends or family use first names. Once someone uses your first name, it is a sign that you may also do so.
Ecuadorians give gifts for birthdays, Christmas or New Year, as well as religious events in a person’s life. A young girl’s 15th birthday (quinceañera) is considered a special date and there is usually a big celebration. If invited to an Ecuadorian home, bring flowers, good quality spirits, pastries or imported sweets for the host. A bouquet of roses is always well received. Do not give lilies or marigolds as they are used at funerals.
When invited to someone’s home for dinner and there are other guests, arriving a little late is usually not considered bad manners. It is customary to introduce yourself to each person when you arrive. When leaving, say goodbye to each guest. Table manners are continental – the fork is held in the left hand and the knife in the right while eating. Wait for the host to signal the start of the meal. He or she might say “Buen provecho.” Meals are social occasions and can be quite lengthy. It is generally bad manners to discuss religion or politics, especially with other guests you don’t know very well. This could lead to arguments and cause embarrassment for the host.
I think Ecuadorians understand to a certain extent that foreigners have different customs and might not be offended if you don’t follow all the etiquette rules. But you will earn respect if you make an effort to adapt to their customs.