4 Ways to Avoid Being the Annoying Tourist

A holiday is all about learning about new cultures and trying new things, it's definitely not about being the annoying tourist everyone hates.

Here's how to avoid being that annoying tourist...

PACK THE RIGHT CLOTHING

When you are packing your bag, make sure you know  about any traditional clothing rules, especially in countries where religion and gender customs are extremely important. Visiting a church in Europe? Don't wear a strapless mini dress! A temple in Asia? Opt for shoes that can be easily taken off.

LEARN IMPORTANT PHRASES IN THE NATIVE LANGUAGE

Learning a bit of the native language is a good way to fit in, but make sure you actually use them! Memorize the important words and phrases, like "thank you".

PLAN HOW TO GET AROUND BEFORE YOU LEAVE

No, we don't mean Uber. You have to be aware of your surroundings, like where your hotel is compared to the rest of the city. So be sure to have Google Maps ready, you can even use it offline - here's how!

TRY TO BLEND IN

The best way to avoid looking like an annoying tourist is to do what the locals do. Study the country's ways and mannerisms. If everyone eats fried lambs brains and drinks beer for supper, then you'd better toughen up!

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How to not be an irritating tourist

There is nothing worse than an annoying tourist ruining your lovely vacation. To avoid being one of those typical unwelcome tourists, follow these simple steps…

     ·         Use your inside voice

You know those complaints from foreigners about how loud tourists are? Well it’s for good reason, so take your semi-screaming voices down to a minimum. It’s all about volume control.

     ·         Leave the selfie stick at home (or in the bin)

Here are three reasons why: 1.) If you just ask nicely, a kind stranger will gladly take your photo. 2.) It is the most unsightly contraption. 3.) It is a legitimate danger to the people around you.

     ·         The same rule applies for your iPad

A bigger screen does not mean a better photo. Plus, by leaving the tablet at home you can travel without having to carry around the massive device. Cue – the fanny pack.

     ·         Don’t comment on how cheap everything is

No matter how affordable everything may seem to you, it is kind of insulting to the people who live there. They are still working hard to make a living.

     ·         Or how expensive

You chose to travel to that country, get over it.

     ·         Dress appropriately

No, you shouldn’t go out and buy the natives traditional outfit, but be respectful. Maybe an ancient temple isn’t the best place to wear a crop top and high heels.

     ·         Be aware of your surroundings

In general, just behave according. Don’t hog a busy sidewalk for 20 minutes just to take a picture. Don’t complain about people’s accents or how the coffee tastes.

Don’t be an irritating tourist, make your travels and the people’s around you a pleasant one.

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