As ambassadors for our respective countries, we as tourists have a responsibility to show humility and respect while traveling abroad. So how can you be a better tourist? Here are four tips to get you started.
Dress appropriately
Every culture has its own rules and customs surrounding what’s appropriate or inappropriate to wear. In East Asia, for example, you’ll find low-cut shirts to be a big no-no for the ladies, while other cultures may find that baring your legs in a pair of shorts is inappropriate. Try to make sure your clothing is not offensive to the locals by doing your research before you pack. Cover up bare legs when entering temples or other sacred sites, avoid low-cut shirts in cultures where it is inappropriate and when in doubt, err on the side of covering up rather than overexposing yourself in a conservative culture.
Learn a few local phrases
While no one is going to expect you to speak fluent German for a one-week stay in Berlin, learning a few phrases will go a long way with the locals. It shows a willingness to learn and a respect for the local culture. Although your accent might be terrible and your pronunciation laughable, you’ll find locals are much more open to tourists who try to speak their language rather than those who can’t be bothered to try.
Brush up on the culture
You may be surprised by what’s considered rude or normal in other cultures. In Thailand, for example, it’s extremely rude to point your feet at someone, while it’s polite to bow your head in greeting. Brushing up on local customs like these ensures you’re not accidentally offending locals or caught off guard by a surprising local ritual.
How do you make sure you’re a good tourist abroad?
(Main image: Robert Swier)
