28 Insider Travel Secrets Locals Wish Tourists Knew Before Arriving
So, international travel is back in a big way—like nearly tripling compared to last year! But before you start planning your global escapades, have you ever wondered if that little cultural hiccup—like accidentally calling a Scot a “Scott” or mistaking Iceland’s chill for rudeness—could turn your dream vacation into a cringe-worthy adventure? Trust me, diving headfirst into a new culture isn’t just about snapping pics and ticking off landmarks; it’s about knowing when to bow (literally), when to keep your sarcasm in check, and maybe leaving chewing gum at home for good measure. Lucky for you, I’ve dug deep through locals’ spicy tips from around the world to help you dodge those faux pas and actually enjoy your trip without becoming that tourist everyone glares at. Ready to travel smarter and funnier? Let’s get started! LEARN MORE
According to the latest UNWTO World Tourism Barometer, international tourist arrivals almost tripled in January to July 2022 (+172%) compared to the same time frame in 2021.
This means the sector returned to almost 60% of pre-pandemic levels. The steady recovery reflects strong pent-up demand for international travel as well as the easing or lifting of travel restrictions to date.
However, if you’re planning to join the 474 million tourists who went abroad over the period, you must remember that you’re immersing yourself in a different culture. It sounds simple, but if you don’t do your homework, even seemingly little differences, inconsistencies, or whatever it is you want to call your tactless actions, can ruin the day for you or the locals.
But don’t worry, Bored Panda has you covered. We scrolled through the internet and compiled what people think foreigners should know about the places they live in before visiting, and their insights can act as a stepping stone for your further education.
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Sweden: We are very informal. Everyone is on a first name basis, and we don’t use titles. If your doctor’s name is Maria Johnsson, you adress her as Maria during your visit. And just because we don’t act as excited as a dog when their master is coming home, it doesn’t mean you are unwelcome here. We’re just a little toned down. Also, unisex bathrooms are the standard here.
“A few that spring to mind include women covering their heads in some countries, tipping in the US, and not bringing chewing gum into Singapore,” Vicky explained. “This is especially important if you’re going somewhere a little more unusual, like when I went to Papua New Guinea.”
The traveler said that most should be able to prepare themselves from the comfort of their own home. “It’s easy to do your homework with the wealth of information out there. You can just do a Google search before you go and there are many travel blogs that will tell you what you need to know.”
“Of course, you should know any customs that are offensive not to obey, but you’ll find out more about local traditions as you go. It’s all part of the fun of traveling; learning about new cultures on the road.”
Police here is usually quite nice. No risk of randomly getting shot. Also, we dont greet strangers on the street or interact with them if not necessary. Joking about the holocaust or doing the hitler salute can very well get you in trouble. Germany
According to Freya Higgins-Desbiolles, Senior Lecturer in Tourism Management at the University of South Australia, the increasing prevalence of the badly behaved tourist, either in reality or simply as a cultural meme, presents a serious issue for the tourism industry.
“In cities at tourism’s bleeding edge, such as Venice, resentment has [even] boiled over into anti-tourism protests,” Higgins-Desbiolles highlighted in The Conversation. “In Barcelona, the cause against foreign visitors has been embraced by left-wing nationalist activists. Their view is expressed in graffiti around Barcelona: ‘Refugees welcome; tourists go home.'”
The academic thinks it’s in everyone’s best interest to get along. “Unless the tourism industry does something to address underlying aggravations, such sentiments are likely to spread. There’s a danger tourism, instead of building bridges for cross-cultural understanding and friendship, will add to the stereotypical walls that separate people.”
Also lived in Japan. This is what I have to say. Bow to people who bow to you. Bow to people in general when they give you a service. It’s a sign of respect and it goes a long way. Also, take off your shoes and respect the culture.
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