Tarija - Lifestyle

Lifestyle

Tarija is commonly regarded by Bolivian nationals and tourists alike as the Bolivian Andalucia. The Guadalquivir River that borders the city was named after the Spanish river of the same name. Residents of Tarija call themselves Chapacos, regardless of social class and racial background. Although the origin of the name is uncertain, there is a hypothesis that it is a variation of "chacapa", the name of an indigenous settlement in the region during early colonial times.

During Bolivia's post-revolutionary period for independence, the Chapacos (or residents of Tarija) voted on a referendum in favor of opting to be annexed by Bolivia instead of Argentina. It's for that reason that Tarijeños have been traditionally esteemed as among Bolivia's most loyal and patriotic. However, the modern culture is slightly isolated from the rest of urban Bolivia, and in recent times many Tarijeñans feel much more connected to Tarija itself than to the rest of Bolivia. Their local creed is reflected in a famous, folkloric Cueca song, titled "Chapaco Soy".

Tarijeños enjoy a relaxed lifestyle and are sometimes particularly proud of a lackadaisical approach to punctuality. A three-hour siesta beginning at noon is practiced daily. During the siesta, most offices and shops are closed and the city streets are empty as families reunite to eat lunch, followed by a short nap. Tarija is also known for its wine, and for the open, social attitude of its people.