Learn how to be a good tourist.
Here are some ideas for how to portray yourself well while traveling worldwide.
1. Dress Well
You've made it, so dress the part. Dressing respectfully is an added challenge in some nations, especially if you plan on visiting religious places.
2. Study Beforehand
You may never come this way again. What is the historical significance of this city or country? What places inspire pride in the community?
3. May I See Your Papers, Please?
Although you're unlikely to find yourself in a problematic scenario, bring a color photocopy of your passport. You may leave your key in the hotel room safe and copies of your credit cards.
4. Tell Your Bank Your Plans
Before you travel, contact your credit card providers and the bank that issued your debit card. Inform them of your plans.
5. Get Local Currency
MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted worldwide, but American Express is not. Regardless, expect to walk up to an ATM and withdraw a few hundred dollars in local currency when you arrive. This helps with taxis and expands your dining options.
6. Learn a Few Phrases
This can be difficult if the language is entirely unknown to you and you are unfamiliar with the alphabet. Learn phrases such as "Good morning," "Hello," and "Thank You."
7. Chain Hotels or Grand Hotels?
Each has advantages and disadvantages. A U.S. chain hotel where everyone speaks English can be an oasis in a strange atmosphere. A local grand or business hotel in a western country will offer standard amenities and local traditions.
8. Electric Current Converter
The plugs are different, even though many travel appliances are 110/220 volts. Dual plugs may be available in hotels with many American business travelers, but this is an exception. If you don't have one, see if you can borrow one. The iPad and iPhone will both need to be recharged.
9. Be Adventurous
When traveling, novice travelers frequently favor familiar foods. Burgers and fries are available in practically every country. Fast food restaurants in the United States have become global names. Get some advice and taste some local cuisine, but remember that tourists in some counties are advised to avoid street food. The same recipes are frequently available in local restaurants with working kitchens.
10. There's More to Life Than Shopping
Getting caught up in stores and malls is easy, especially if you're short on time. It's most likely why the city exists. At least one primary cultural site should be visited.
11. Try Public Transportation
You might prefer taxis, but give their local bus, tram, or subway system at least one try. You will get firsthand experience of how the locals get around.
12. Nothing Beats Local Knowledge
Pals have probably visited you before. Prepare yourself by learning from your mistakes. Inquire at the hotel for assistance. Their goal is to increase recurring business and provide a pleasant experience for guests. You'll come across eateries and attractions that are off the main route.
13. They Don't Care Who You Are
You may prefer taxis, but at the very least, look at their local bus, tram, or subway system. You'll get an up-close look at how the locals get around.
14. Don't Be Critical
The local restaurant owner may be pleased with his cuisine, which is made entirely of locally produced materials. He doesn't want to hear that the food back home is superior.
Hotel and restaurant employees typically earn little money, especially in nations where tipping is not shared. Carry modest cash and leave a large tip.
16. Review Your Bill
In restaurants, value-added tax (VAT), analogous to sales tax in the United States, is frequently itemized on the bill. It can appear as an itemized service charge, usually 15 to 20%. It's possible that adding an itemized service charge is standard practice. If anything is unclear, get it explained.
17. You Will Never Get the Best Price
Bargaining is a part of the purchasing process in many cultures. Because they do it daily, the vendor has the home field edge. They, too, must eke out a living. If you're having a good time and the price seems reasonable, go for it.
18. People Do Not Want to Cheat You
Taxi drivers are more knowledgeable about their city than you are. Because it avoids traffic, they may take a less direct route. Local restaurants and hotel concierges have peer-to-peer interaction. They understand that tourists will have a positive experience that will leave them with beautiful recollections. They aren't all in it for the money.
19. Assume You Will Return
On this trip or another, you might go back to the eatery. You could come back to the city on another vacation. Act as though this will happen, even if it isn't likely. It makes an excellent first impression.
One of the most significant advantages of travel for adults and children is that it broadens the mind. We discover that individuals are essentially the same throughout the world. They, like us, want the finest education for their children and the best life possible for themselves. When you travel, you become a global
citizen.
