Travel Etiquette (Creating Generative Value)

Yes, travelling around the world and visiting foreign countries can be very exciting and has its perks. Travelling allows you to expand your knowledge and learn about new cultures and customs. However, “it is not always all butterfly and rainbows” as different countries have their own customs, rules and traditions that they live by. As a traveller myself, I understand that these factors can pose challenges to all of us as it is exceptionally important that we are aware of the do’s and don’ts when we are in a particular country. No matter where we are, proper travel etiquette is always the utmost importance! Furthermore, several cities are beginning to impose rules and regulations on tourists as bad behaviour is on the rise around the world as mentioned by Julia Corderoy in her article.

Each potential tourist has his or her own opinions and beliefs. There will certainly be expectations or customs that one is bound to disagree with in a certain country that one is visiting and that is fine. It is completely understandable. However, that does not mean that one can rudely shut them down and insult their culture and believes. Even a teeny bit of insult can be taken to heart seriously by the locals of that country.

I myself have these thoughts too from time to time when I travelled around. I always had questions like “Why would they do that?” “No, that is nasty!”. However, I always keep it to myself as I do not want to disrespect or offend the locals there. My purpose is to have a good holiday and not to create a commotion!

As such, here are some tips when you are planning to visit a foreign country:

Do your research. Learn what are the do’s and don’ts of that country. Look up the customs and traditions that they have. Learn to adapt and try not to offend the locals.

Do NOT simply touch anything. Certain cultural and heritage sites have existed for years and a simple touch may be taboo or worse still, causes irreversible damage. Listen to the authorities and abide by their rules.

Watch your dress code. Certain countries have a strict dress code in which they require you to dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious places of interests.

Whenever you find yourself about to do something that you may regret later on in a foreign country, remember the golden rule “One should not treat others in ways that one would not like to be treated”.

#culture #travel #etiquette #taveletiquette #tourists #rudetourists