How to Discourage a Man From Bothering You in Spanish-Speaking Countries

Though most Spanish and Latin American men are not the slick Don Juans they have been made out to be, a woman traveling alone in a Spanish-speaking country will almost inevitably encounter at least one man whose persistent attention is unwelcome. The following steps should help you get away from him and his incessant come-ons.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Spanish Dictionaries
• Spanish Phrase Book
• Airline Tickets

1. Ignore him. He's looking for attention, so if you don't pay him any, he may get bored and look elsewhere.

2. If that doesn't work, try giving him a look that means, "Don't even think about messing with me." It's important to appear confident even if that's not the way you're feeling.

3. Walk away. If someone sits down next to you, get up and leave without comment. If someone walks alongside you uninvited, turn around and walk in the other direction.

4. If the previous steps haven't worked, tell him, "Déjame en paz," which means, "Leave me alone."

5. He's still there? Invent a husband or boyfriend. Try, "Estoy aquí con mi novio," or, "I'm here with my boyfriend," then walk away again.

6. If all else fails, raise a ruckus and embarrass him into leaving you alone. Shout "Socorro!" (Help!) or call for "la policía."

Tips & Warnings

• The more confident and assertive you appear, the less likely you are to be bothered by men. They often enjoy preying on women whom they think will be shocked or flustered by their advances.
• Don't expect men to leave you alone just because you tell them you're an American and you don't speak Spanish. They'll enjoy the opportunity to practice their pick-up lines in English.
• Most men who pester you will be harmless, but always be aware of your safety. If you feel at all threatened, immediately look for a well-lit, densely populated place for safety.

[JoyfulOne]

on 3/4/2009 Good tips. Thanks.