Whether you’re travelling to a far flung country or just across the Channel, it’s incredibly important to respect the culture of the country that you’re visiting or you could find yourself in trouble. Not only that, but it stops you from being stereotyped by locals as another loud and ignorant tourist. Holiday Numbers has gathered a basic list of what you should do whilst on holiday in another country, so you can be up to date on the latest tourist information.
Environment
Consider the environment of where you have travelled to and not just in the literal sense. When you first arrive, ask hotel staff about the local community- are there any projects you can get involved in? This works best for less ‘touristy’ areas where they may have conservation projects happening. Whilst you are enjoying your holiday, respect the environment by not littering. If you happen to see any local wildlife during your stay, don’t harass them. Respect the local rules by sticking to designated roads and trails. If you visit any zoos or aquariums, pay the entrance fee as it will go towards conservation, and if you happen to see any animal abuse make sure that you report it straight away. You should never buy souvenirs which are made from endangered animals.
Behaviour
In terms of behaviour, respect the local citizens privacy by avoiding private land. If you travel somewhere further afield like Thailand where there are temples or sacred places, check that you are allowed to visit them before you go. If you wish to take photos or videos which may feature local people, ask their permission first.
Culture
There are a few things that you can do before you travel to prepare for experiencing a new culture. If the locals speak a certain language, it’s polite to learn a few conversational words such as ‘hello’ and ‘thank you’- these will be appreciated when interacting with locals, such as ordering food at a restaurant or getting a taxi. You should also research the dress codes. Many countries, particularly those with Islam faith, ask women to dress modestly. You should adhere to this.
Economy
When you visit a country, make sure that you support the local economy by paying the fair price for things. This means no overly aggressive haggling on the price of souvenirs or skimping on tips for services. You should also try to ‘buy local’ where possible by staying in locally owned hotels, using local buses, eating at locally owned restaurants and enjoying markets and events produced by citizens of the area that you’re staying in. If you go on an excursion, make sure it is led by a local guide.
Little known etiquette facts from around the world:
- In Thailand, you should hail taxis and call over waiters with your fingers facing downwards, to put them up would be considered rude.
- In China, you should never write in red ink- it’s seen as a symbol of protest.
- In Australia, it’s socially unacceptable to blow your nose in public.
- In France, you shouldn’t call someone at 11.55am as lunchtime is considered ‘sacred’.
- When eating a meal in Spain, you shouldn’t pass a salt shaker from hand to hand, it’s bad luck.
- In Vietnam, you should always accept a gift with both hands as using just one is seen to be ungrateful.
- In Brazil, the ‘OK’ hand symbol is highly offensive.
- In Hungary, you shouldn’t clink glasses whilst saying ‘cheers’ as it is linked to the execution of the 13 Martyrs of Arad.
- In Singapore, it’s illegal to chew chewing gum.
