"Ugly Tourist" is not a reference to physical appearance. It's coined to tourists who act like they are at home, despite being in other countries. They will not speak a word of that language, take selfies everywhere and just have no consideration from others. Professional travel expert Rick Steves has come up with a few ways to help those who travel outside the US to avoid being the "ugly tourist".
Travel like a cultural chameleon
-First things first, remember that you are in a different country. They do things differently. Look around at you and see what the locals are doing. Try to imitate them. Learn a few words in the local language. Learn the basic greetings of hello, goodbye, I'm sorry, thank you and please will get you far. Even if you mispronounce it, the locals will appreciate your effort. And, when in doubt, ask the locals what word is correct. Explain to them that you want to make sure you are using their language correctly. They will appreciate the consideration.
-You must also take, into consideration, local dress codes. Some countries are highly conservative. They don't necessarily like tattoos being on full display. They may not be used to the "alternative edge", as some people put it, that some people have. Japan, for example, is a highly conservative country. The locals will be dressed casually or business professional, depending on their destination. They tend to prefer that tattoos not be on full display because of the strong cultural connection to the form of organized crime from their country, called the Yakuza, who is known for heavy body tattooing. Some countries have relaxed dress codes while others are a bit more conservative. For example, if you are visiting cultural / religious sites, conservative dress is key. Research what the dress codes are prior to going to avoid any sort of error on your part
-The big thing to do is research. Do a lot of research prior to your trip to see what local laws and dress codes are like, see what the local eateries look like, what the local customs dictate and more. So that, when you do go, you'll know what to do to avoid errors. And, when in doubt, ask the locals. Ask them questions and let them know that you are asking to make sure you avoid any issues. They will appreciate that very much
Little things make a big impact
-It's said that little things go a long way. This applies to travelling outside your home country. This refers to making as little impact on the environment as possible. Don't litter, respect wildlife. Locals, in years past, are getting strained to the point of protest with overtourism. People come and destroy the local sights. In Rome, one couple inscribed their initials on the Colosseum while another tourist drove a Maserati down the Spanish Steps. Locals are getting sick and tired of ignorant travelers
-This bad behavior is mostly to blame because of social media. It seems that bad behavior is what gets maximum views on the internet. People can't seem to get enough of videos where people misbehave on vacation. Rick Steves says put down the camera and engage with the locals and the local culture. While photos are great, you sometimes miss out on the moment you're trying to capture. One good way to positively impact the destination you're visiting is to support local shops, restaurants and markets, instead of hitting the international chains. You'll get a travel experience like no other. Rick Steve strongly warns against the tourist shops. He says just ignore them
No comments:
Post a Comment