Most bartenders and doormen in Latin America do not speak English, but most can put together a few words and play a bit charades to communicate the basics.  Don’t be afraid to go out if you’re not fluent in

• activo – the role of the “top”
• agua – water (in bars, you’ll need to specify “con gas” if you want it with gas, or “sin gas” without
• bano – bathroom
• barra libre – open bar / free drinks
• boliches – nightclubs
• cerveza – beer
• canilla libre – open bar (see also “barra libre”)
• chupito – a shot of alcohol
• cuánto? – How much? (can also use Cuánto cuesta?)
• cubierto – “cargo por cubierto” – literally “cover charge” (see also “entrada”)
• entrada – entrance fee / cover (see also cubierto)
• passivo – the sexual role of the “bottom”
• sin azucar – sugar free
• sin gelo – without ice (pronounced “seen yeilo”)
• “taxi boys” – male escorts / prostitutes
• tragos – mixed drinks / cocktails