Superstitions and Etiquette in Puerto Rico Topic Description Puerto Rico is Florida's neighbor to the south. There is a growing population of Puerto Ricans in the United States. There is also great interest from the United States in Puerto Rico. It is important to understand the culture of our neighbor if the United States wishes to continue a positive relationship beyond globalization. Understanding superstitions and proper business etiquette in Puerto Rico can serve as a glimpse into the island's culture. Importance of the Topic It is important to understand and take a look at superstitions and proper business etiquette in Puerto Rico. This is important because this type of understanding can benefit business relationships. Furthermore, the lack of this knowledge can devastate any possibility of a relationship, in the event that something is done that is considered offensive or brings bad luck. For example, there is a casino in Las Vegas that has built an entrance carved in the shape of a snapdragon. A large amount of the high rollers who frequent these Las Vegas casinos are Chinese. The casino did not research the Chinese culture according to which entering a lion's mouth was considered unlucky. If sufficient research had been conducted, the casino would not have lost a large amount of business from this entry. This is just one example of the importance of knowing the superstitions and proper business etiquette of other nations. Superstitions Puerto Rico has many superstitions similar to those of the United States, as well as some that are not as common. Some of the superstitions shared with the United States include black cats and walking under stairs brings bad luck. Another similar thing is that number 13 can also bring bad luck. Most tall buildings in Puerto Rico do not have a thirteenth floor. The floor numbers jump from twelve to fourteen. Additionally, Tuesday the 13th is the equivalent of Friday the 13th in the United States, however many in Puerto Rico see both days as a day full of bad luck. Some other interesting superstitions start on New Year's Eve. These superstitions begin with throwing a bucket of water outside your front door at midnight. For many in Puerto Rico, this symbolizes the elimination of all the negative events of the previous year and the emptying of the past year for a new new year..