No one wants to offend anybody when they are traveling overseas. However, when visiting a foreign country, it can be difficult to know which behaviors are acceptable and which ones are just plain offensive.
Check out our list of culturally acceptable behavior no matter where you are in the world.
Respecting Elders
It doesn’t matter where you are, elders are an important part of any culture. Opening doors for the elderly, offering a kind word and just showing respect will go a long way. When traveling to any country, remember to treat the elders well and never do anything that you wouldn’t want done to your own grandparents.
Avoid Making Loud Noises
Whistling, blowing your nose and laughing loudly can be offensive to many cultures. If you aren’t sure of the polite thing to do, opt to not do anything. Be self-aware of how loud you are and observant as to what others in that particular culture are doing.
Be Punctual
In most countries there is no such thing as being fashionably late. Showing up to something even just a few minutes late can be seen as highly disrespectful. Always give yourself enough time to get to wherever you need to go. Remember that transportation in other countries may not be that great so you need to give yourself plenty of extra time.
Going Out When Sick
In many countries when an individual is sick they wear a mask in public. If you don’t want to carry a mask when traveling, avoid going out in public if you are showing signs of illness. Don’t walk around sneezing or coughing uncontrollably. You will be bound to get dirty looks and some shop owners may not even allow you inside as they don’t want to be exposed to your germs.
Be Grateful
No matter where you are you should never act ungrateful. Always thank everyone who helps you in your travels. Whether it be the waiter at the restaurant or the helpful local that gave you directions, don’t forget to say thank you to them.
Research Cultures and Customs Before Traveling
If you are traveling on an escorted tour, then your tour guide will assist you in the local customers of each place you are visiting, but if you are traveling on your own, take some time to learn about the habits of the country your are visiting. For example in Germany it is considered rude to have your hands in your pocket while speaking to someone. Tipping in Japan is taken as an insult. In Napal they frown upon public displays of affection. In Italy you cannot enter a Church with shorts or with sleeveless shirts (shoulder must be covered.) It’s always good to know these things ahead of time as a sign of respect. We also recommend learning a few key words like hello, good bye, how much is it – useful words as they appreciate it when you try and speak their native language, even if they also speak English.
Traveling will go a lot smoother if you don’t offend anyone along the way. If you aren’t sure about a particular behavior, a good rule of thumb is to just not do it unless you have observed several locals acting the same way without a bad result.
