Smooth travels

When you travel you often find yourself in a wonderful foreign location, with no idea how to behave. One of the greatest benefits of travel is the opportunity to learn about and experience different lifestyles and cultures, but this doesn’t mean you should be completely ignorant before you set off. Often travelers who are patient, polite and agreeable at home can be unintentionally offensive and dress inappropriately in other cultures.

When you plan your trip and research where you will stay, sightsee and eat, make sure you read up on the customs and cultural sensitivities of the people you will encounter.

Remember that things will be done differently than back home – try and embrace this fact. Just because someone eats in a different setting than you it doesn’t necessarily mean you are right and they are wrong. Accept that you are a visitor in their country and need to respect the people.

If you’re not sure whether something you want to say or do is appropriate, think before you say or do it, especially if you want to make jokes about or criticize something. Rather bite your tongue or, if you’ve met a local that you feel comfortable with, ask whether your comment would be considered offensive in a public setting.

It’s always a good idea to learn a few words of the language of your destination. Even if you can’t pronounce the words properly, saying ‘good morning’, ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ will be appreciated. You may even break the ice a little bit and have a laugh or two.

You should ensure that you always dress appropriately. Certain temples in Thailand and other Asian countries do not allow entry to people dressed in shorts or tank tops. When you go sightseeing or visit areas that are not touristy-spaces, dress more conservatively than you normally would.

Be careful with your hands, a harmless or positive hand gesture in America or South Africa might prove to be insulting in another country. Watch the local people and try to be mindful of their gestures when they speak to one another and when they speak to you, this is the perfect lead, and will help you avoid embarrassment or uneasy situations.

If you smoke, be considerate about it, don’t expect to be able to smoke anywhere you please. Choose a smoking location that won’t impact others. In some places chewing gum is illegal and so is littering. Learn the rules and obey them.

When you take photos practice good photo etiquette. Flash photography is restricted at museums and live performances and photographing some governmental locations may violate the law. If you want to take a photo of a local, ask their permission first.

Experience your destination to its fullest. Try exotic foods or seek classes and exhibitions that will teach you appreciation and new skills. Be receptive to learning about the culture and lifestyle. You might find you enjoy certain elements of it.

Generally, the rule of thumb is ‘do unto others as you would have them do unto you’ (within reason). Strive to treat people that you meet by their standards and you could unlock a lasting acceptance from the people who you meet.

These travel etiquettes are more than just do’s and don’ts; it’s the way by which people not only perceive about your upbringing and mannerisms, but also about the country you belong to.

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