Arrive a little late, and bring a gift

For a purely social invitation (dinner at someone’s home, a party), arriving 15 to 30 minutes after the stated time is normal, not rude, and sometimes actually expected. This does not extend to business meetings, medical appointments, or anything with a hard schedule, treat those with regular punctuality.

Bring a gift when you’re invited to someone’s home, arriving empty-handed reads as an oversight. Flowers are a safe, appreciated default, just avoid red (associated with witchcraft) and white lilies (a funeral flower) specifically.

• Don’t leave immediately after the meal ends — staying to talk for a while afterward (sobremesa) is part of being a good guest, not overstaying your welcome.
• If you’re unsure how casual the gathering is, bring something anyway — a bottle of wine or a dessert works broadly across most social visits.