30 People Share Unwritten Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Be Aware Of
Take a look - you will find them useful
The world is a pretty big place, no matter how small we are trying to make it with all this globalization going on. It is a global village, but every house has its own set of rules that you need to follow.
Getting to know a country you are visiting involves much more than just visiting popular tourist spots. It involves interacting with the locals and getting to know them.
This separates travelers from plain tourists. Sure, the Eiffel Tower is gorgeous, but the people who built it and their descendants are much more interesting.
We should all take time to get to know the people in the countries we are visiting, try to figure out the local transportation system, and learn how to order a meal. However, you should be careful not to unintentionally insult your hosts.
But how can you do that without knowing the local customs? In an attempt to gather valuable advice for travelers, Redditor u/Skinnysaif asked other users: "What should tourists NEVER do in your country?" Luckily for us, there were plenty of answers from people all over the world.
We have selected 30 of the best. Take a look - you will find them helpful.
1. Selfies in concentration camps
"Concentration camps are not a place for you to get your stupid selfies for your 'influencer' profile. Those tracks you're standing on transported many to their deaths.
It's okay to take pictures for memories that you came here. But those people who come here to take 'sexy' selfies have no place being here."
Rafael Wagner2. Do not go near dangerous animals in Australia
"Australia. For f**k's sake. DON'T GO NEAR THE CROCODILE, DON'T TOUCH THE SNAKE, AND DON'T TRY TO EAT THE RED BACK SPIDER. These are all true things stupid tourists have done here, including some Americans picking a fight with a kangaroo. (The kangaroo won)"
Rumplestiltskin1254,Michael3. Queues in England
"In England, respect the queues and do not cut. We will stare at you passive-aggressively with the fury of a thousand suns."
Thatweasel,Cátia Matos
Cultural Norms and Their Impact on Behavior
Cultural norms significantly shape behavior and interactions, especially for travelers. Research indicates that understanding these unwritten rules can enhance interpersonal relationships and reduce misunderstandings.
Dr. Geert Hofstede's work on cultural dimensions suggests that varying cultural expectations can lead to significant differences in behavior and communication styles.
Awareness of cultural nuances can promote respect and improve social interactions across diverse settings.
4. Rock sculptures in Utah
"Here in the U.S., in southern Utah, there are many amazing rock sculptures. Don't. Write. On. Them. They are rare structures formed by thousands of years of erosion, not something to carve your name into."
Uneaqualty65,John Fowler
5. Bow when in Japan
"In Japan, bow to people who bow to you. In general, bow to people when they provide you with a service. It's a sign of respect, and it goes a long way. Also, take off your shoes indoors and respect the culture."
LazzzyButtons,myllissaFollow
6. Again - do not touch wildlife in Australia
"Don't touch the wildlife in Australia. If it isn't poisonous, violent, or otherwise ill-mannered and dangerous, it's probably protected or endangered."
inzur,Fairy Duff
Travelers often face the challenge of adapting to new cultural environments. Studies show that individuals who practice cultural empathy tend to experience less anxiety and greater enjoyment during their travels.
Embracing local customs and traditions can enrich the travel experience and foster meaningful connections with local communities.
Engaging with locals can provide valuable insights into cultural practices and enhance overall understanding.
7. Talking German in Germany
"In Germany, you should never be afraid to talk to us in German. We love it!
Any tourist who brings up the courage to ask us for directions or anything else in one of the hardest European languages just makes our day!"
MomoLittle,SHVETS production
8. Portugal and Spanish
"If you're visiting Portugal, don't speak to us in Spanish. You are not in Spain, and we speak Portuguese."
fabz_martins,Lisa
9. Poverty tours
"Poverty tours. By all means, get off the beaten path and see the 'good' and the 'bad' if you want to. However, don’t go to a struggling neighborhood to feel better about yourself or learn to appreciate what you have. Poverty is not entertainment."
tebanano,wikimedia.commons
Navigating Unwritten Rules
Unwritten rules can often be confusing, especially for newcomers to a culture. Research indicates that individuals who take the time to learn about local customs are more likely to have positive experiences.
Dr. Edward Hall's cultural context theory emphasizes the importance of understanding both high-context and low-context communication styles in navigating different cultures.
Being observant and asking questions can help bridge gaps in understanding and promote smoother interactions.
10. Germans are multilingual
"Germany here, and this mostly goes out to Americans. You should never assume you can talk privately anywhere in public Germany just because you speak English.
I don't know if this is different in the U.S., but here, almost anyone can speak at least two languages, and very well. Pretty much anyone can speak English, even more so in the cities.
I usually try to join in on any conversation Americans have in the subway about how weird 'those Germans' are!"
MomoLittle,Shvets Anna
11. Keep the streets clean in Croatia
"In Croatia, particularly in small towns, people are expected to clean the streets in front of their homes. As a result, you'll find exceptionally clean streets, which are a real source of communal civic pride."
Ech1n0idea,Sergei Gussev
12. Argentinian coffee
"In Argentina, don't ask for coffee to go. We don't have paper cups. If you go to a café, you're expected to sit and drink your coffee."
kimboslice11,Angela Roma
Awareness of cultural differences is essential for fostering positive interactions. Studies suggest that practicing mindfulness can enhance one's ability to navigate unfamiliar social situations.
Mindful travelers who remain present and open to new experiences may find it easier to adapt and connect with others.
Emphasizing respect for local customs can lead to a more enriching travel experience.
13. Personal space in Finland
"In Finland, don't get too close to strangers. We really value personal space."
-manabreak,Alexandr Bormotin
14. Do not compliment in Jordan
"In Jordan, if you compliment someone on something, it's impolite for that person not to offer that item to you. For example, if you compliment a man's watch, he will literally unlatch it from his arm and offer it to you. Of course, you're supposed to decline."
RODNAE Productions
15. TP in China
"In China, NEVER go out without carrying toilet paper or tissues with you. It's never in public restrooms, so you'll want to keep some on hand."
roborabbit_mama,Vie Studio
The Benefits of Cultural Exchange
Cultural exchange can enhance personal growth and understanding. Research indicates that individuals who engage in cultural exchange experiences report increased empathy and reduced prejudice.
Participating in cultural activities can foster a sense of community and belonging, enriching both personal and social experiences.
Encouraging open dialogues about cultural differences can promote mutual respect and understanding.
16. England and tickets
"In London, don't look for your train ticket/Oyster card at the barrier to the tube. Locals will get mad. Find it ahead of time so you can walk right through the gates."
westish13,Jennifer Kramer
17. Selfies at the 9/11 Memorial
"As a New Yorker, please don’t take selfies at the 9/11 memorial. Photograph the memorial, photograph the names, or, in the event that one of the names means something to you, I’m okay with you snapping a selfie. But the typical smiling-tourist selfies are crass."
R0b0tMark,wikimedia.commons
18. Rounds in Ireland
"In Ireland, stand your round. When you go out to the pubs with a group of friends, make sure to pay for a round of drinks when it's your turn. If you don't, you will be secretly labeled a cheapskate."
tu_ne_cede_malis,Laura LaRose
Traveling with an open mind is essential for personal growth. Studies show that individuals who embrace new experiences tend to develop greater adaptability and resilience.
Being willing to step outside one’s comfort zone can lead to transformative experiences and deeper connections with others.
Encouraging curiosity about different cultures can foster personal development and enhance emotional intelligence.
19. Swimming in Australia
"In Australia, swim between the flags. If you have little experience swimming in the surf and you swim outside those flags, then there is a relatively high chance that you will drown."
gérard
20. Traffic in India
"In India, traffic lanes exist on the roads, but people don't drive in them."
Alex Graves
21. Eating in Korea
"In Korea, the eldest person at the table should start eating first. Don't pick up your chopsticks, spoon, or whatever utensil you're using until the oldest person has started eating."
waynefoolx,Markus WinklerReport
Respecting Cultural Contexts
Understanding cultural contexts is crucial for successful interactions. Research shows that individuals who can navigate cultural differences with respect tend to have more positive experiences.
Dr. Richard Nisbett's work emphasizes the importance of cultural context in shaping thought processes and behaviors.
Being aware of these contexts can help travelers avoid cultural faux pas and enhance their overall experience.
22. Say Hi in Paris
"In Paris, you should always say 'bonjour' when entering a shop or restaurant and 'au revoir' when leaving, even if you don't purchase anything or walk right in and out."
france_throwaway21,James Petts
23. Walk slowly
"In Vietnam, commit to crossing the road. It looks scary with the endless scooter stampedes, but if you just cross at a steady pace, they'll avoid you. Do not try to dodge or make sudden movements. Just simply walk across."
ricehatwarrior,Los viajes del Cangrejo
24. Flip flops in Singapore
"Singaporean here
You are allowed to wear flip flops and shorts wherever you go. The fancy city area? Flip flops and shorts are perfect. That five-star hotel? Flip flops are welcomed. Public transport? You are weird if you do not wear them."
SirPalat,Dương Nhân
25. Don't litter
"Washington, D.C.
Do. Not. Leave. Trash. At. The. Monuments.
Also, get out of the water. It's not a pool."
WatchTheBoom,wikimedia.commons
26. Be careful in Denmark
"In Denmark, do not stand or walk in the bike lane. You will get yelled at...and/or hit by a cyclist."
Tiralina,maksgelatin
27. Obey the rules in South Africa
"In South Africa, when you go on a 'safari' (we call it a game drive), you must never, ever get out of your vehicle or get close to any big animals because that is how there are stories of people dying from animals here. Just please stay safe and obey the rules to save lives."
the10starpotato,Hu Chen
28. Switzerland is expensive
"Switzerland is really expensive, and you should know that ahead of time. Don't make that surprised face when you have to pay $15 for a Subway sandwich."
Nimrods_Legacy,crash71100
29. Talking to strangers in Norway
"Don't talk to anyone in public. Only approach people for conversations if they are receptionists or something similar.
It's not for your security or anything, but it freaks us the hell out. No one talks to strangers in Norway unless you're hiking and above the treelines."
Michael Fousert
30. Not all Americans support Trump
"Assume that I support Trump or am a fundamentalist Christian because I am a white American male. I've been talked down to by Germans in particular and don't like it. I wish I had more than one vote or were rich enough to live in different countries as my mood and politics change, but that is not in the cards."
jimbo_throwaway77,r. nial bradshaw
What do you think of these tips? We found that the Australian tips are the easiest to remember. 'Do not touch crocodiles' is pretty hard to forget.
It takes just 20-30 minutes of online research to understand some local customs. It is not hard, and it will make your visit more pleasant.
Psychological Analysis
This exploration into cultural norms underscores the importance of adaptability in diverse settings. Understanding unwritten rules can significantly enhance travelers' experiences and foster positive interactions.
Analysis generated by AI
Analysis & Alternative Approaches
Recognizing the impact of cultural norms is essential for fostering respect and understanding during travel. Research consistently shows that cultural awareness enhances interpersonal relationships and enriches experiences.
According to studies published in the Cultural Psychology Journal, engaging with different cultures can lead to personal growth and greater emotional intelligence.
