Eating

Much of the Venezuelan diet consists of hot foods, casseroles, meat pies, stews, and pasta dishes. Rice is common, and maize is the basis of many dishes, including the arepa, a soft pancake wrapped around soft cheese, and empanadas, which are pies filled with cheese, meat, or fish. Punta-trasera is a tender steak dish. Pabellón criollo is made of black beans, rice, shredded meat, and plantains. In most cities, open markets provide a large variety of tropical fruits and fresh vegetables. Hot chocolate is almost as popular as coffee.

Marriage and Family

Traditionally, a man must seek a woman’s parents’ approval before getting engaged. Both families play a large role in preparing for the wedding, and the two families often associate closely after their children are married. The marriage reception usually includes a formal, catered party from which the couple generally leaves early.

Although extended families do not live together, they play an important role in the social lives of Uruguayans. The father is considered the head of the family and rarely does any household work. Many women work or study outside the home. The average family has two children. Most families rent rather than own their house or apartment.

Marriage and Family

In the past, a young man would signal his interest in a woman by carving a 'love spoon' for her, in anticipation of courtship. Today these elaborate love spoons are found in craft shops throughout Wales. Marriage is legal at 16, but most people marry in their mid-20s. Many young people live together before or instead of getting married.

Traditionally, Welsh families have been close, with many of the extended family living nearby and grandparents sometimes living in the same house. The nominal head of the household is the father, but the mother plays an equally important role in family affairs.