Cellphones

In Argentina, mobile phone usage depends on the situation and conditions vary greatly.

In school, one can usually check messages or scroll through social media while keeping one eye out not to be caught. Teachers occasionally take phones away but are not as strict as countries like the US, where if a phone is seen it is confiscated and the student's grade drops.

In most public places in Argentina it is considered rude to take out a phone. Buses are considered quiet zones, and in banks or gas stations usage is directly prohibited. In restaurants, photos of food are often taken but afterwards cells should be stored and left alone for the duration of the meal as it is considered rude to direct your attention away from your company.

With friends, usage also depends on the situation. If everyone is on their phone or it is just a causal hang out with a close friend, it can be fine to use it. With bigger groups, or more formal events, one should store their phone and pay respect to company.