13 Reasons Why You May Be A Bad Tourist.
Manners and respect should be universal traits. Unfortunately, it is not, especially when it comes to foreign travel. Here are 13 reasons why you may be a bad tourist:
1. Arrogant, Rude, Know-It-All
Arrogant, rude, know-it-alls will likely get treated equally poorly by locals and all those they encounter anywhere in the world. If you want to be treated well, humble yourself and stay polite.
2. Complainer who compares that things are better at home
If you are just going to complain that things are better at home (like the sights, the food, the people, and all the details on your trip), then just stay at home. Be open-minded to the differences of the world.
3. Disrespecting cultural norms and rules
Every country and culture has its own cultural norms and rules. Before traveling to foreign lands, do a little research to get the basic idea of what is acceptable and what is frowned upon. Or, when you are in that country, observe the locals and be mindful of their actions and interactions.
4. Vandalism
Don’t even think about etching your initials onto decades and centuries-old landmarks. Yes, travelers are doing this (on the iconic red shrines in Japan). Just don’t.
5. Dressing inappropriately
It’s one thing to be fashion forward. It’s another to dress inappropriately – as in skimpy clothing in modest cultures or way too casual for proper establishments.
6. Speaking loudly
Quite honestly, there are two notable countries that stick out when it comes to tourists speaking loudly – Americans and Chinese. Observe and respect your surroundings. And, take note on how locals may be speaking in decibels far lower than your own.
7. Speaking loudly in English as though that will make someone who doesn’t speak English understand you better
Yes, this actually happens. Instead, try to use body language to communicate or take out your phone to utilize Google Translate.
8. Cutting lines
Don’t be that supposedly oblivious person who cuts lines. It’s going to make all those people in line mad at you, yell at you, and send angry glares in your direction. If you are unsure if you have to fall in line, ask someone what they are lining up for.
9. Getting obnoxiously drunk
Unless you are at a wild nightclub or bar, getting obnoxiously drunk in a foreign country is highly inappropriate and gravely dangerous for your own well-being.
10. Taking photos where you are not supposed to
In many places, such as inside stores or sacred sights, there are actually universal signs not to take photos. Respect that. If you are unsure, the best thing to do is ask for permission before taking a photo.
11. Taking photos with your iPad
Yes, that person. The one who wants to attract attention that they have an iPad. Practically everyone has a smartphone these days – just use that camera. Plus, it doesn’t subject you to being mugged by a thief that spotted your large device.
12. Not willing to try the local food
If you are traveling for a long period of time, there will be cravings for something familiar. That’s completely understandable. But for the best food of your trip, try the local cuisine as that is obviously the specialty of the country.
13. Smelly, self-care, hygiene
Nothing can repel people faster than a smelly person. Do yourself and others around you a huge favor, and take a shower and be mindful of your hygiene when traveling (and when at home..basically all the time).
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