What should you do if you receive an invitation ?

If I am invited to someone's house for dinner at half past seven, they will expect I to be there on the dot.
An invitation might state "7.30 for 8", in which case I should arrive no later than 7.50. However, if an invitation says "sharp", I must arrive in plenty of time.

*At the exact time specified – for dinner, lunch, or appointments with professors, doctors, and other professionals.
* Any time during the hours specified for teas, receptions, and cocktail parties.
* A few minutes early: for public meetings, plays, concerts, movies, sporting events, classes, church services, and weddings
*If you receive a written invitation to an event that says “RSVP”, you should respond to let the person who sent the invitation know whether or not you plan to attend
*Never accept an invitation unless you really plan to go. You may refuse by saying, “Thank you for inviting me, but I will not be able to come.”
*Although it is not necessarily expected that you give a gift to your host, it is considered polite to do so, especially if you have been invited for a meal. Flowers, chocolate, or a small gift are all appropriate.
*A thank-you note or telephone call after the visit is also considered polite and is an appropriate means to express your appreciation for the invitation.

In Colombia the customs vary from one ethnic group to another and from one region to another. Usually, friends and relatives are visited unannounced, especially in rural areas, where there are not readily available for a phone call first and set the appointment. When you invite someone to dinner, usually the invited arrive around 30 minutes after the scheduled time. You may bring a small gift, but is not expected to do so. When the guests leave, it is natural that the host accompanying them to the door of the house and even down the street

o Give personal gifts, like clothing and perfume, only when you know people well.
o Bring your hostess fruit, flowers or chocolates.
o Send flowers ahead of time, if possible. Roses are a favorite.
o Give your colleagues fine scotch and wines, engraved pens, calculators and gifts from your home region.