Don't get caught slipping! How to avoid these travel faux pas

Wanderlusters rejoice! COVID-19 vaccines are steadily rolling out and it's finally time to dust off those travel calendars. As you hit the road in search of adventure, relaxation and an escape from Zoom meetings, you definitely don’t want to be the type of tourist that elicits eyerolls from the locals and embarrasses themselves overseas. So here is a useful list of some of the most common travel faux pas that people make, and more importantly how you can avoid them.

Being oblivious to the local culture

Experiencing a culturally different environment will inevitably be a major part of your travel experience. You’ll be doing yourself a disservice by not being aware of the many cultural differences that make your travel destination unique and exciting.

How to avoid this: Google is your friend...do some basic research on the local culture and customs before you travel.

Expecting everyone to communicate in English

There are over 7000 languages spoken throughout the world, so leave your assumptions at the door and remember that YOU bear the responsibility of communicating in the language of the country you’re visiting.

How to avoid this: Google is your friend...learn some basic phrases in the local language before you travel.

Not taking health precautions seriously

The world is still reeling from the devastating pandemic and as a result many countries are rightly enforcing various health measures to keep travelers and citizens alike safe. Don’t be that guy...wear a mask!

How to avoid this: Google is your friend...look up all the health rules and regulations before you travel.

Making poor clothing choices

You’ve spent a lot of time shopping for the perfect outfits for your big trip - that’s great! But it's probably a good idea to think twice before you get dressed for the day’s activities; maybe wearing your booty shorts to the ancient church tour isn’t the best idea.

How to avoid this: Google is your friend...find out what clothing is considered appropriate and respectful for the various places you plan to visit before you travel.

To tip or not to tip...that is the question

While in some places tipping is considered important and courteous, that isn’t necessarily true everywhere. In some countries leaving a tip can be considered unnecessary and potentially disrespectful, as the assumption that the person providing the service doesn’t make a liveable salary could be received as offensive.

How to avoid this: Google is your friend...find out what tipping practices are considered acceptable before you travel.

Posing for photos in inappropriate places

Photos are a major part of any travel experience. However it’s important to read the room and make sure your treasured selfie isn’t being taken in an insensitive way or at a place where photography isn’t respectful.

How to avoid this: Google is your friend...find out the history of any monuments or cultural sites you plan on visiting and identify any sensitivity you need to consider before you travel.

Bad food etiquette

Can I eat with my hands? Is it okay to refuse food offered to me? Should I pour my own drink? Can I ask for salt and pepper? All questions that you may not have to think about while at home, but that you might need to consider when you’re travelling to avoid offending those around you.

How to avoid this: Google is your friend...learn about what dining etiquette is welcomed and frowned upon before you travel.

Loaded hand gestures

You think you’re simply pointing at something with your index finger but you could be insulting your host in the process. You give a thumbs up to show approval but you may have just inadvertently cursed out the people around you. Your hands are a powerful communication tool when you’re on the road, so proceed with caution.

How to avoid this: Google is your friend...figure out what hand gestures may have a different meaning or are considered offensive before you travel.