There are many misconceptions and stereotypes about Latin America. While there may be truths in some, most of these mistaken beliefs are totally wrong.

Fallacies can change the way the world looks at a country and its people. This is because, the beliefs distort perceptions and make people judge something differently from what they really are.

Although some misbeliefs about Latin Americans are not that bad, they must be set straight since only the truth can free Latinos from false impressions and concepts. So, what are the most common misconceptions about Latinos and their countries? Here are the top eight examples:

1. Latinos are Catholic

It was the Spaniards who established Catholicism in South and Central America. They even brought the religion in other countries like the Philippines so it is widely believed that Latinos strongly practice the Catholic faith.

This is not the reality now. Latin America is going astray from Catholicism as its influence in the zone is slowly losing its grip. Many churches like the Protestant have emerged and Latinos are being drawn into these religions. In addition, there are also Mormons and Jewish faithfuls.

2. Latinos are Spanish speakers

Citizens of most Latin American countries speak Spanish, however not all them. For instance, Brazilians are mainly Portuguese speakers while other regions such as Venezuela and Guyana speak English and Guyanese creole. Also, nowadays, many Latinos do not even have a chance to learn Spanish.

3. Latino Food Consist of Tacos and Burritos

When Latin cuisine is mentioned, people usually think of tacos and burritos. While these are commonly served in Latin America, Latinos have diverse selections of dishes and they are not just fried foods dripping with fat.

In an article in Cosmopolitan, it was stated that Latinos don't just serve meats and fried dishes but many meals are actually vegetable-based. Additionally, typical staples like beans, rice and quinoa are healthy options in a Latam's menu.

4. Latins are Hot Salsa Dancers

When one is speaking of Latin people, what comes to mind first are those couples dancing in hot and sexy salsa or samba numbers. Generally, Latins are sensual and fiery but not all are into salsa and dancing hotly in clubs. Women are also not always dressed in skimpy outfits.

5.Latinos have the Same Appearance

Latins' looks varies. They are not just white, brown or black people. Many people also assume that Mexicans are dark with black hair while in truth, many are white just like the Europeans.

6. Latinos love to Drink Tequila

Tequila is an alcoholic beverage originated in Mexico. It has become popular worldwide but Latins don't really drink it that much. This is because they prefer other drinks like cocktails, beers, bourbon, gin, vodka or whisky.

7. Latin Countries' Weather are Not Always Hot

Latam is a huge region so its weather differs. Though there are parts that are indeed hot and offer that desirable tropical weather, many areas are cold since it also snows at times.

8. Latin America is Drug Den

It is true that there are Latam countries where drug related activities are rampant. In particular, the north regions are well-known for drug cartels and the people there are the one that suffers.

Despite this, most of the drug activities are only concentrated in a few Latin states. There are actually many countries in Latin America that are safe and drug-free.