Population 12,100,000 Religion Roman Catholicism is the predominant faith among Ecuadorians but religious toleration is practiced, allowing for much religious diversity among the non-Catholics. A handshake is usually used when meeting someone for the first time. It is always used in subsequent greetings, along with the exchange of good wishes. Close friends sometimes kiss each other on both cheeks.
Men often embrace if well acquainted.
It is customary to address people by a title when being introduced. First names are generally not used between strangers. Guests are typically offered something to drink, and it is generally impolite to refuse the offer. When inviting a guest to visit, the host will state the starting time, but it is considered bad taste to specify an ending time. Instead, an ending time is generally understood depending on the nature of the visit.