Hola,

You are probably wondering what “Terere” is right? I know what you are going to say so I’ll answer your question before you have time to ask it. Terere is the cold version of the world-famous Yerba Mate from South America. If someone offers you some terere it means that they think you are cool and want to be your friend. It is similar to the peace pipe done by North American Indians.

Terere is served from a thermos into a guampa with a metal straw called a bombilla. The host takes the thermos and pours the water into the guampa and drinks the water that is instantly flavored by the Yerba leaves inside. Then he refills and passes the guampa on to the next person. If you wish to decline you can simply say, “Gracias,” and they will not give you any more. It is a custom not to drink if you are sick.

You can google search it and find out more if that isn’t sufficient for you.

-JM