Travel Etiquette: 8 Pieces Tourist Should Know

Ooooh! I am coming in hot with this topic friends!

It is the start to a new month, I am feeling a bit spicy and I have been toying with the idea of a blog post on travel etiquette for quite some time now.

You will be amazed at some of the behavior I have witnessed while traveling.

Yup! Another Zahi Fun Fact:

I embarrass very easily. Whether is a couple arguing in front of me, fights out in public or just someone being rude to another person. I can't...🫣 So this topic is really important to me!

Remember that visiting another country is a privilege, it is like visiting someone's home for the first time! Our behavior and the way he carry our selves can be seen as rude, insulting and even in some countries, illegal! Besides, it can ruin your experience altogether!

I put together a list of 8 pieces of travel etiquette that every traveler should know.

1. Know Your Destination:

Before you go, do some research. Get a general idea of what the area is like, what important historic events have occurred there, and what the culture is comprised of. Are you traveling during a holiday? Or Holy time? Any recent conflicts that you may be aware of? To ensure you're not being unintentionally disrespectful or put your self in a dangerous situation, a little homework goes a long way.

2. Try To Translate, If Possible:

You are not expected to learn an entire new language. But learning a few words and even phrases will only help you. At the very least, learn the local greeting so you don't offend people. Also, the locals appreciate that you are trying to connect with them and most are more than willing to teach you a word or two. When in doubt, Google Translate can help in a pinch! I promise you will have some fun learning a few new words!

*Tip: Please DO NOT yell at any one to speak English if you are not in an English speaking country. You are a guest in their country, and you should behave as such.

*Tip: This one is for when traveling to Spanish speaking countries. Please for the love of everything that is Holy, do not tell the locals to "andale, andale". 🤦🏽‍♀️ This actually makes people uncomfortable. The body language says it all.

3. Prepare To Dress Conservatively If The Culture Calls For It:

We often forget that our way of life is not the same as it is in other countries.

If you're going to a conservative country, respect the culture. Dress as close to the locals as you can, both to show them that you respect their dress code, and also for your own safety. If everyone else has their shoulder's covered, you should have yours covered, too.

Tip: This is when a great travel agent can help, making sure you are travel ready.

4. Don't Take Pictures Of People Without Asking:

A friend once asked if the resorts and cruises I was posting pictures of were as empty as they looked in my pictures? I thought it was funny and I can totally see why. When I look through my pictures rarely are there people in them. That is because no one wants to feel like a human zoo, so I personally wake up super early to be able to get those "empty places" pictures. But if you are out and about and it is a close up, just ask the person if it is ok. If they say no, please be understanding and backdown immediately.

5. Do As Other's Do:

This is one of the very few times that I will tell you to follow what everyone else is doing. You know the saying, " when in Rome, do as the Romans do"? If you are at a cafe for instance, and no one else is on their laptop, please save sending that email for another time. If you are at a museum and your phone rings, look around to see if anyone else is on their phone. If you're tempted to take a picture of something but no one is taking pictures, perhaps there's a reason. The phrase "read the room" comes to mind. This will avoid some uncomfortable situations which in-turn will make your visit much more enjoyable.

6. Be Polite, ALWAYS:

You would think this is common sense but, one is often surprised as to how many people seem to forget their manners. For instance: If you don't like the local food, you don't have to eat it. But you do have to be gracious, and at the very least take a small bite and pretend to like it. Insulting food is insulting a culture in many cases. In the same way that you wouldn't spit out something your grandmother made special for you, you shouldn't crinkle up your face or turn up your nose at another culture's food, drink, dress, music, or lifestyle. I have to admit, I have been guilty of politely declining a bite of food at a place or two.

7. Be Patient:

Even when you are in a rush, make sure that you are being careful and polite. If you're used to a city life or travel often, it's easy to forget that you're a visitor. But when you're visiting a new country or culture, it's important to hold the door for people, walk at a respectful distance and pace, and not show signs of frustration when waiting for food or other services. Reminding your self that you are a guest there will put things into perspective.

8. Learn The Laws/Rules And Follow Them:

I keep seeing this particular question asked in some resorts fan pages, " can I bring edibles? How about my cannabis vape pen? Can I bring CBD...? I understand that a lot of these items are medically prescribed, or some have been legalized by some states. However, these items can get you in a lot of trouble in other countries. Regardless of what you think, you are not invincible. Laws and rules are put in place for reasons. And, some of these reasons could be serious. So, when you are traveling and you come across signs or postings advising you to do or not do something, adhere to them. Take time to learn an overview of the local laws, too, so that you are able to keep yourself – and others – out of harm’s way. Remember, breaking a law in another country does not always lead to an easy outcome. Something that comes with a minor consequence in the U.S. could be greatly punished elsewhere. Therefore, it is best to know before you go.

I know this one may ruffle some feathers since at one time or another we have all been guilty of doing or not doing some of these things. But as I said, I am feeling spicy today and I am really passionate about this topic! At the end of the day, I just want everyone to have the best travel experience possible. Having the privilege to travel to other countries and experience other cultures is something that not everyone has the opportunity to do. If you happen to be one the lucky ones, be gratefully, treat everyone with kindness and respect wherever you go and you will be surprised at how much people are willing to teach and share with you!

Happy Travels Friends ❤️

What are some of your travel etiquette tips? Or pet peeves? Drop them in the comments! Please share this with your friends!

Have travel questions? Looking for travel tips? Or suggestions on what topics you want to read about? Email me at zahi@holabeachestravel.com .

Never miss a wave, subscribe to my newsletter at www.holabeachestravel.com . Stay social, follow me on Facebook,Instagram and Pinterest