Get Premium
Dark mode theme is available exclusively for premium users. Learn more about the benefits of subscribing.
No fees, cancel anytime.
Dark Mode 
No fees, cancel anytime 
The 30 Biggest Mistakes Most Tourists Make In Major Cities, As Revealed By People Who Travel A Lot (New Answers)
Traveling is one of the most exciting things we can do on this planet. Seeing the beautiful nature of a different country, embracing another culture, and tasting foods we’ve never had before can all be amazing experiences. The logistics of traveling, however, can be a bit overwhelming. When you’re a tourist who doesn’t know much about the country or city you’re in, it can be easy to make embarrassing mistakes or fall into tourist traps.
Luckily for us, Reddit users have been sharing all of their tips for avoiding common tourist mistakes in their countries, so we’ve gathered a list of some of the best tips to help you be a more informed traveler. Whether it’s a way to save you some money, avoid an awkward interaction or ensure you’re not unintentionally rude, this list has got you covered. Keep reading to also find an interview we were lucky enough to receive from author and creator of the blog The Invisible Tourist, Alyse.
And when you’re finished reading these tips, you can check out even more in Bored Panda’s last article on the same topic right here.
This post may include affiliate links.
#1
If you're visiting somewhere like Auschwitz, somewhere that a degree of solemnity is required, don't be a total c*nt. Don't be the school kids that decide to practice a gymnastics routine. Don't be the glitzy tarted up women taking pouty faced selfies in front of the glass cases filled with dead people's belongings. Don't be the d*ck who claims to the polish guide that she'd be speaking German it weren't for his country. Learn a little about history and a lot about decorum before going to a place such as this
An interesting thing about people who love traveling is that they often hate being perceived as tourists. They don’t want to “dress like a tourist” or go to the most “touristy spots”, and they’re desperate to look like they fit in (until someone speaks to them and realizes they don’t know the local language). We all know the type of tourist they’re probably imagining: proudly strutting around with a selfie stick in one hand and a map in the other, wearing a t-shirt with the name of whatever country their in splashed across their chest. While this person may sound cringey or embarrassing, is there really anything wrong with that type of tourist? They’re just enjoying their vacation!
But if you’re anything like me, you might be interested in some tips to be a more discreet traveler. I aim to be a tourist who finds myself at lesser known restaurants filled with locals and who researches the culture before going anywhere to try to avoid making a fool out of myself. Does it make any difference? Who knows. But I do love traveling, so I’ll be happy to learn a few tips from this list.
RELATED:
#2
Worst mistake: not learning a little bit about the culture ahead of time so you are not accidentally rude.
MagicalUnicorn 2 years ago
this needs to be higher since it works in every country around the world
When it comes to international travel, it has been steadily rising since the end of World War II. According to the World Tourism Organization, there were 25 million international tourist visits in 1950, rising all the way up to 1.4 billion in 2018. While there are many factors influencing who is traveling abroad, certain destinations are consistently popular for tourists from all over the world. In 2017, France was the top visited country, racking in 87 million visitors. Of course, almost 70 million of them were from other European nations, but it’s still a popular destination for travelers from the Americas and Asia as well. After France, Spain came in next with 82 million visitors, then the US with 77 million and China with 61 million. Also high on the list were Italy, Mexico, the UK, Germany, Thailand and Turkey. And in terms of where all these visitors are coming from, China provides the most tourism abroad, with over 143 million journeys abroad in 2017. This is not surprising, given the country’s wealth and population, but it’s still an impressive amount of traveling.
#3
Asians leaving their bags unattended in Europe. BIGGEST MOST FREQUENT MISTAKE EVER. Not just because their sh*t gets stolen but also in France every unattended baggage is considered as a bomb terror potential and blocks transportation, sightseeing, or frankly any kind of activities for anyone else there.
I know for a fact in Korea if you leave your bag at a metrostation corner and come back 3 hours later it's still gonna be there, same thing as leaving them at cafes unattended but I swear to God, you do that in France, 5 mins later, poof your sh*ts gone or you're brought to the police station for questioning because you become a suspect terrorist. I cannot stress this enough, DONT LEAVE UR SH*T ALONE IN EUROPE!
#4
For families traveling, spread out your packing.
If you are a family of four and bringing two suitcases, spread the clothing for each person between both cases. (IE: Half of each person's clothing should be in one case and half in the other.) That way if one suitcase gets lost, then everyone still has at least half the clothing that they need.
While international travel has been affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, it’s beginning to see a rise again. During 2020, the months of July, August and September saw tourism levels 64% lower than the same period in 2019. In 2021, however, the year’s tourism increased by over 50% during those same three months. Travel rates are expected to remain lower than they were pre-pandemic during 2022, but The World Travel and Tourism Council reports that arrivals in Europe have already increased 350 percent compared to last year. Restrictions easing up around the world is great for the global economy, but it’s also a plus for those who love traveling and have felt confined over the past couple of years. Now is the perfect time to receive some travel tips before planning out your next trip to one of the countries mentioned in this list.
#5
People that don't speak English also don't speak slower and louder English.
And the insane mime work isn't really helping.
Yeah, you heard 2 years ago
I don't think this is wholly true. I don't speak Italian, but the Italian guy who owned the hotel I stayed in spoke to me slowly and loudly in Italian, and mimed, and I understood.
When it comes to blending in as a tourist, it requires a bit of research. Thankfully, nowadays there are countless travel blogs, vlogs, podcasts and social media accounts to help us along the way. One of which is The Invisible Tourist, a blog by an Australian woman named Alyse, which focuses on the idea of “invisible tourism”. Alyse features many travel tips on her blog and even has published a book titled How to Not Look Like a Tourist: Unlocking Your Hidden Power for Overtourism Solutions.
We reached out to Alyse to gain some insight from a travel expert and hear about any tourist faux pas she has made or witnessed. "The worst travel mistake I made was riding a donkey up the 500+ stairs from the port to Santorini's old town," Alyse told us. "My poor juvenile donkey was so exhausted half way up, tripped, and we both fell to the ground. From that moment I decided to walk the rest of the stairs myself, and vowed not to engage with animals exploited in tourism moving forward."
#7
US - Only visiting New York and/or Florida and then believing they've seen "America."
Obviously you're not going to be able to visit every state and eat in every rural diner, but don't just come to Times Square and then believe you've formed an opinion about life in the US.
Yeah, you heard 2 years ago
Same as visiting London then claiming you've seen "England" or worse "the UK"
#8
Australia. Not putting sunscreen on the back of their knees while going snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef or just not wearing sunscreen full stop
Dan Padgett 2 years ago
People who don't wear sunscreen or use a low SPF are idiots. Skin cancer is never going to be summers hottest new look.
#9
Make sure when addressing to someone in France to start with a greeting. Not saying Bonjour could be considered very rude.
I’m A Black Cat 2 years ago
This goes for other countries as well. Just be polite and greet the waiter, cashier or anyone else
We also asked Alyse to break down her concept of "invisible tourism" for us. "Being an Invisible Tourist is about making a conscious effort to "blend in" as best as possible when travelling. Overall, the aim is to minimize the negative impacts tourism has on local communities, their culture, and the environment." Alyse provided us with a list of ways to blend in as a tourist including: "practicing local customs, etiquette and dressing appropriately to demonstrate our cultural awareness; learning the basics of the local language to help preserve it and show respect; prioritizing local, regulated accommodation over international hotel chains to keep tourism money in the community; immersing ourselves in the local culture through food and experiences; seeking out alternatives to popular spots to dilute our tourist footprints; purchasing handcrafted souvenirs to support local jobs and keep traditions alive; packing reusable items for our trip to minimize waste; and opting for small, locally-owned group tours instead of larger ones when not travelling independently".
"There are many more strategies to add," Alyse says. "But helping to preserve the identities and culture of places we visit keeps them beautifully unique, whilst resulting in positive exchanges between tourists and locals. A win-win for everyone!"
#10
Bringing their 'bad manners' with them and insisting on doing it because its what they normally do back home.
I.e. sh*tting in public, acting like they own the place, no idea how to form a line, causing a disturbance in the area by talking loudly, destroying public property due to ignorance
When I see these signs in a person, I immediately walk the opposite direction.
#11
Not so much a mistake but something I thought was just obnoxious. At a pub in Ireland and, as they do, a bunch of guys whipped out instruments and just started jamming. It was the type of spontaneous session that perfectly captures the experience of a true Irish pub.
This very American couple, at the close of a song, got up to leave. The woman reached over to give one of the musicians some money. He declined as if to say, we aren't buskers looking for handouts, this is just us having fun. She insists, leaves the money in front of him, and says, "it's customary."
My buddy and I, also Americans, were so embarrassed. While her intentions were obvisouly good,her gesture just struck us as arrogant. It was if she was saying her customs are superior to the locals. It has stuck with both my buddy and me for almost 20 years. To this day, saying "it's customary" is a way to say someone is being obnoxious.
#12
Putting phones in their back pocket. You're just asking to be pick pocketed.
Rob Dabank 2 years ago
Is this just not a rule for life rather than for tourists? Just don't do this no matter where you are (except if attending the "carrying your phone in your back pocket convention")
When asked why international travel is an important experience to have, Alyse told us, "Travelling to other countries... can introduce us to new ways of thinking we haven't been exposed to before. It's an opportunity to extend outside our comfort zones and experience different cultures, sights, cuisines and more that we may never have the chance to at home. Exposure to these things opens our minds and also helps us gain a better understanding of cultural differences. Each is special in their own unique way, and that’s a beautiful thing."
#13
Walking slowly and stopping in the middle of a busy street to take pictures.
Ewa K 2 years ago
This makes me so angry. I walk slow and cannot dodge fast, if someone will walk through me like one comment suggest, I will certainly fall. You wouldn't spot anything wrong with me while walking by and I'm trying to use sides of pavements, but sometimes I hear comments or see people waving hands at me in anger. Also I'm way more tired after trying to walk in a way to avoid disturbing others.
#14
Florida's kind of an unfamiliar country, right? Protip: It rains in Orlando. A lot. Bring rain gear and don't scream at your kids at Disney World because they're tired and/or wet because you planned poorly.
Ogre Juan Canolli 2 years ago
And Don't Get Mad When A Wave Pool Closes Because Of Lightning !
#15
Throwing a piece of fruit at a giant tortoise.
I was vacationing in the Galapagos years ago and hanging out with a friend and her study-abroad host family. For most of us, since we were kids we've been building up internal strength to resist the urge to throw things at wild animals. But this family hadn't spent much time in zoos or around wild animals, so that internal strength was a bit lacking.
Soon after we arrived in the Galapagos and we encountered on a few wild giant tortoises on a guided hike. As I was marveling at their glacial pace and truthfully hilarious stature, I see something moving in the corner of my eye. I look up, and...is that a passionfruit flying across the sky? Right towards that tortoise?
It splashed about a foot in front of the tortoise, who forgot all about his relaxed, leisurely demeanor and sprinted away from us. My friend was mortified. The tour guide was too shocked to deliver the tirade he so clearly wanted to. And it took a solid 10-15 seconds for the mom who'd tossed the fruit to realize that throwing passionfruit at tortoises is frowned upon in the Galapagos Islands.
Rob Dabank 2 years ago
Again, I am astonished that people have to be told not to do these things. I think I must be an alien.
Lastly, Alyse wanted to add that, "Prior to 2020, more people were travelling than ever before. This resulted in overtourism issues in popular cities, leading to resentment of tourists. It doesn't have to be that way! By looking back at mistakes of the past, we can learn from them. Tourists ultimately hold the power to drive change within the industry. I always like to say, 'no one likes an annoying tourist.' By changing how we travel and making decisions that leave a positive impact moving forward, we can be tourists the locals will love!"
If you're looking for more tourism tips for blending in, be sure to check out Alyse's blog and book!
#16
Not do their research properly, I mean like average cab fares, average food costs etc. I’ve seen Caucasian tourists come to my country (Malaysia) and get out of a cab paying RM280 for a ride in the city, that’s idk $70 or more USD? The average 1 hour cab ride from my suburb to the airport only costs RM80, maybe 20-30 USD. Tourists get scammed so badly and they don’t even know
Beeps 2 years ago
The problem is very often that when you are faced with an aggressive cab driver, there’s nothing you can do in the moment. Happened to me in Singapore: I *knew* how much the fare should have been, *confirmed* it before getting in, and then somehow, when we stopped in the middle of nowhere, the fare tripled, because of reasons. I knew that I was being scammed, but the guy got so aggressive, there was nothing I could do that wouldn’t have put my safety at risk.
#18
I was flying to Switzerland. Within EU countries there's a flat data roaming rate, so I'm not paying more if I use my phone in Portugal, Finland or Czech Republic, BUT as Switzerland is not a part of EU (even though they have border regulations connected to the Schengen Agreement), their data plan rate is crazy high. I knew about it and remembered to switch off data roaming, but behind me on a plane there was this obnoxious, supreme wearing kid swearing like hell to his mom that they will miss their connection. I didn't payed much attention, but the shriek he let out when he turned off the airplane mode after landing (while still seated), and after 15 seconds got a text message from his provider that he exceeded his spending limit for more than 70 EUR was a truly one that only a really tortured soul could made. Remember to check your roaming fees, guys.
Robert T 2 years ago
Depends very much on your phone provider. I remember paying £2/day to use my UK call and data allowance in Poland. However I got stung in the US with my work phone when it turned out the only way we could get an internet connection to pick up some important document was for me to do it via my phone - cost about $100 to retrieve one file! If you're going to be somewhere for a while, consider buying a local SIM card.
When it comes to tourists, some countries are more notorious than others for being obnoxious. The United States is a particularly divisive nation. Despite the millions of travelers who visit the country every year, many people around the world don’t love it when Americans come to them. Keep in mind there are over 320 million people in the US, so it’s hard to make generalizations about them all. But if you are an American (nothing wrong with that, I’m one too!), we’ve gathered some things to be sure to avoid doing while traveling from Best Life’s list of “20 Countries That Hate Tourists from the United States”.
#19
Walk into tourist trap restaurants.
Do a bit of research first.
It's especially bad in London, stop walking into Angus Steakhouse and Bella Italia people.
#20
Europeans coming to America and not leaving a tip to the servers, just because it's not the custom in Europe.
Best behave.... 2 years ago
That doesn't help the staff. The US employment system sucks in many ways, but tourists making a petty minded and silent "protest" doesn't pay your waitress' rent
Load More Replies...
Yeah, you heard 2 years ago
Yeah, it is hard to know who to tip. The server in McDonald's? The cleaner in the bathroom? The receptionist? If you err on the side of caution and tip everyone, you've spent $20 in tips just by buying a coffee.
Bill Evs 2 years ago
Exactly, knowing who to tip, when to tip and how much to tip is another level again. No doubt it's obvious to every American but if you're not familiar with the intricacies of it you end up offending people without even realising it
Load More Replies...
LH25 2 years ago
Yes, they should. But until that happens, tip people who depend on it.
Load More Replies...
Sinkvenice 2 years ago
Even then some aren't grateful. I was in a nice restaurant in New York years ago and my friend and I were unsure how much yup to leave, so we worked out roughly 20% plus a bit extra and left. The waitress literally ran out and chased us down the street saying we didn't leave enough. Appalling.
Upstaged75 2 years ago
I don't believe that for one second. Unless you server was insane or on drugs. Or you gravely miscalculated and really only tipped 2%. Servers unfortunately get stiffed all the time. They don't chase people down over it.
Load More Replies... 
Trillian 2 years ago
I know and I do tip accordingly but it makes dining out in the US incredibly expensive. Bc the food itself (excluding tips aaaaand of course tax) is not in any way cheaper than here, where both service and tax are included. Not to mention that they will basically throw you out once you've finished the last bite.
Sam J 2 years ago
Not sure about that last sentence. No restaurant I've eaten at thrown me out after finishing, they give me as much time as I need.
Load More Replies...
Trinity 2 years ago
Well, even as an Aussie, it's normal not to tip. We forget that Americans don't get decent pay and have to survive on tips, and because it's not an everyday thing, we forget to do it. It's like going over to Japan and forgetting to take your shoes off; we don't mean to offend, we're just used to wearing shoes a lot of the time because of our dangerous animals and insects.
Anna Banana 2 years ago
I have to admint that I've made a terrible faux pas in the US by walking into an almost empty diner and sitting myself at a table. Somebody from the staff came over and asked me to sit at the bar, whether they would've normally sat me had I waited like I was supposed to. I knew that this was a rule, but lifetime habit just overwrote it. But also, I still don't understand why I had to sit at a bar just because I was on my own (especially since most of the tables were still open when i was leaving). Kinda funny that in the US of all places you don't have the freedom to choose your own table ;)
madbakes 2 years ago
The waiting to be seated is normal, and if you ask for a table they will typically be accommodating. Places don't normally make you sit at the bar unless they're busy though.
Load More Replies... Bill Evs 2 years ago
I think most Europeans now know about tipping etiquette in restaurants in the US. The problem is it's not just waiting staff that expect tips in US. I've unintentionally upset other people in other jobs when I was there as I genuinely didn't realise they too expected a tip so the whole thing is a bit of a minefield if you're an outsider
Anthony Czuczman 2 years ago
Full service restaurants with waitstaff, food delivery, taxi (uber/lyft), skycaps, and hotel staff at a 4+ star hotel.
Load More Replies... Sandra Morison 2 years ago
I refused to pay a tip in several restaurants in USA over the years where food and/or service is poor. They should be paid a fair wage food is not cheap in USA
C 2 years ago
Coming from Australia food seemed dirt cheap to me when I went to California, we couldn't believe how cheap. And the beers were so so so cheap there, it was brilliant. Then I found out that wages are very low so it made sense to me why food was so cheap. Met some Australians at a club who couldn't get anyone to serve them a second round because they didn't know to tip on their first until we filled them in on their mistake
Load More Replies...
Concept-Peter Roosdorp 2 years ago
Some might be making a statement, but if it's not something you are used to ... at all... you might forget that it is allowed to pay people $2.30 per hour and they live on tips. The idea is so strange, that it might just be forgetfullness. But yeah, study up on the local customs.
Coolwhip 2 years ago
I understand that our servers should be paid better but it's also mindboggling to me that the same ppl saying "I didn't know. Well they should pay them better" or "how am I supposed to know everybody gets a tip?" Are the same ppl talking about "know our country before you come to us because blah blah blah". Every country is different and every culture does something that you might think is confusing, however it shouldn't stop you from doing the right thing, no matter how odd it may seem.
DetongLhamo 2 years ago
Instead we pay workers a living wage so they don’t have to pretend to not be insulted by obnoxious diners etc.
Fabian Bartsch 2 years ago
eh... its pretty custom here at least where i live to leave a tip to your waiter/waitress/taxi driver whatever.. .IF THE SERVICE WAS GOOD. With the risk of people harshly disagreeing, im not tipping because i know of your low wage check, i do because i liked and enjoyed the service to provided.
Marek Čtrnáct 2 years ago
Frankly, this is one reason I don't really want to visit America. The very idea of tipping stresses me a lot. It sounds so... dreary.
Nora Petricien 2 years ago
But that's so weird tho. I pay my food the same price I would have paid it in Europe (even more sometimes) but they can't (or won't idk) pay their employees the same as they do in Europe ? Why ??? I have been told that the correct amount to tip would be between 20 and 30% but when you are in a 4 people family and eat for $100 it hurts having to spend $20 to $30 more because the restaurant won't pay their waiters.
Jodi Von Seggern 2 years ago
Which means that you cannot afford to eat out at that restaurant! When things are expensive elsewhere do you blame the workers for the prices? FFS Food prices vary everywhere due to how different systems operate. Google is your friend.
Load More Replies...
Premislaus de Colo 2 years ago
It's not about custom. Most people from Europe do not realize that servers in the US are not paid as they should and have to rely on tips.
madbakes 2 years ago
Any basic research of what to do and not do in America talks about tipping in restaurants.
Load More Replies...
Patricia Fonda 2 years ago
🤔In germany we give Tips, if we want to and not why we're supposed to! Our wages can be terrible.to.
Paul Marney 2 years ago
America put your food prices up so u can pay the waiting staff properly i shouldn't have to do maths while out enjoying myself
Ryan Burns 2 years ago (edited)
It would be better if none of us ever tipped. We should not have to pay their wages, their management should.
Gavin Johnson 2 years ago
This is in the ‘learn about local customs’ ruling isn’t it? Personally I tip bar staff, waiters, I leave a tip for housekeeping when I leave a hotel room, you can be sure that if you’ve provided me with good service then I’ll tip. I’m from the U.K. btw.
Adrienne Mcginley 2 years ago
Everyone, no matter how menial the job, should be able to make a livable wage.
Thomas Schnuppelhase 2 years ago
... understanding that there is no 'europe' thing in general when it comes to things like ... Tipping. There are countries tipping is custom, there are where it is not
Krista Leslie 2 years ago
For those that don't know in California wait staff are also paid at least minimum wage of $15 not like other states where it's sometimes something ridiculous like $4 an hour. But it's also still considered rude not to tip.
Jodi Von Seggern 2 years ago
Have you seen rents there? $15 per hour does not cover city rents! Full time at that wage means you need a below $1k per month rent not to be in abject poverty unless you have 3-4 roommates.
Load More Replies... APL 2 years ago
Inverse warning: in some restaurants in Britain they will add a "cover charge" or "service charge" of about 10% to your bill, which represents the average tip here (because waiting staff get minimum wage, not f**k!ng buttons). I don't like it myself because I never feel certain that the money goes to the staff instead of the owner...anyway, be aware that you have a legal right to demand any such charge is waived. You can always slip a tenner to the waitress.
Carol Emory 2 years ago
FYI: Wait staff in local restaurants in some states only get paid $2.13 to $2.31 per hour. Tips are supposed to make up the rest of their wages. What ever is not covered by tips is covered by the employer up to the standard federal minimum wage. And some employers are able to apply for assistance from the government to cover the cost. But this allows the mom and pop shops to keep costs low and compete with bigger chain restaurants for business. Tips are common in the USA, but what should be common is paying wait staff the same wage as everyone else.
jtrisn1 2 years ago
Came into this comment section expecting to see non-Americans who were previously in support of "respect our country customs and rules" whine about how Americans don't do things their way. Was no disappointed but ya'll also are very disappointing in this blatant discrimination.
Pablo Ramos 2 years ago
Tourists coming to the US need to know that the restaurant industry has made you, the consumer, responsible for their employees' salaries
I’m A Black Cat 2 years ago
The tip thing is also customary in many European countries, especially in the northern part (Germany, France, Benelux, most Easten European countries have adopted it). Around 10% is considered decent. Waiters hate tourists who leave nothing. However this is not the case in Italy and Spain. So best tip: please get informed about this before you go somewhere
Nevid 2 years ago
I live in France, and tips here are only a way to show your appreciation if the service was extra great, but it's not expected and nobody will think you're a d**k for not tipping. Also, it's not a percentage of the check, it's your spare change, so rarely more than 5€.
Load More Replies...
commie pinkofag 2 years ago
Countries which pay service personnel a living wage generally regard tipping as insulting. It's very difficult to force yourself to do something that you believe is profoundly degrading to other human beings. European waiters, for example, correctly sense that Americans regard service workers as inferior. They know that in America, for example, their career choice is regarded as a pathetic failure.
Julie C Rose 2 years ago
In the case of people from my country, we don’t find it offensive; it’s just that yanks won’t deign to communicate about it because they get off on feeling morally superior to people who didn’t know about it.
Load More Replies...
SewingStaffy 2 years ago
I don't think anyone is specifically having an issue with the maths here. Most other countries will only leave a tip if the service is good. If I've got a rude waiter/waitress or something similar I'm not leaving a tip.
Load More Replies...
#21
Women Wearing shorts or showing a lot of skin in a Muslim country... please, people, do your due diligence and then be respectful of other peoples religions/cultures especially if you are in their country.
If you’re looking to visit the beautiful nation of Australia, be careful how you refer to their beloved, furry koalas. One Australian notes, “I find the most annoying thing that [Americans] do in Australia is to call our wonderful koala by the wrong name. DO NOT add 'bear' to the name. It is simply a koala."
People from other countries are also not usually fond of the American ego. This is in stark contrast to a mindset in Scandinavian countries, that all our equal and nobody is better than anyone else. One Dane complained about Americans, “They feel better than the rest of the world, but in reality we are as good as they are. They simply don't see us as their equal … but we are. Sometimes we are even better than them. But don't tell them." Coming from a nation that has consistently been rated one of the “happiest countries in the world”, I would have to agree with their point that sometimes Denmark is even better than the US.
#22
Not being aware of things like public holidays and try and researching what will be open or planning ahead and be aware that locals may also be travelling. I'm from New Zealand and used to work in the tourism industry - no one seemed to be aware that although the Christmas/New Year period is over summer, the entire country shuts down for around two weeks.
That also being said, one thing I came across a lot was that because NZ is a small country, you could get through it easily and quickly by road. It's small, yes - but very rugged terrain mean that distances can be so long, especially in the South Island.
commie pinkofag 2 years ago
Americans in Europe have trouble with the absence of a slave labor force that works 24/7. So much of what we complain about when traveling is nothing more than the consequence of a culture that doesn't regard wealth as the purpose of existence. For example, we regard the French as morally inferior for taking summers off. Obversely, Italians are bemused by Americans, whom they regard as having no idea what's valuable in life.
#23
I wouldn't say it was a bad mistake or anything, but I was in O'Hare (worst airport ever, IMO), in the ladies' room when an Indian woman in a beautiful sari was trying all of the closed stall doors (ignoring the open ones). She had a coin in her hand and was trying to insert it into the locks, because (as I had learned while in Europe), they often have pay toilets there. So I gently redirected her.
Ren Karlej 2 years ago
The problem is when you have it the other way around and don't have the money necessary!! Though the last time I saw a loo like this people were just holding the doors open for each other as they went out and the person going in avoided having to pay.
#24
Cracking a nazi joke with Germans you aren't familiar with.
Germans do however love cracking nazi jokes, but only with people they know and trust.
Another mistake Americans sometimes make when abroad is not understanding the drinking culture. One woman from Greece said, “Americans go out and get college-girl drunk—it's a big cultural difference. In Greece, we care a lot about what people think, so we grow up trying to do everything in certain ways. Plus, there was never a drinking age here [until recently when they made it 18], so as teenagers, we never felt the need to get wasted because we easily could if we'd really wanted to." I understand wanting to have fun while traveling, but it’s also great to be able to remember your vacation the next morning…
#25
In Sweden, drinking from your wine or beer glass before your host has made a toast. No matter how thirsty you are always wait until you hear “Skål!” then you’re good to go.
#26
Using the money exchange at the airport.
I had a picture somewhere of a rates at Stanstead. 20% spread _each way_. Selling Pound for 4 PLN, buying for 6PLN.
#27
Confusing the small Catholic parish church in Canterbury for the Cathedral, and complaining it wasn't as impressive as he expected, and it didn't 'look old enough'.
Snorkeldorf 2 years ago
Lots of folks complain about the Alamo in that way also. So small.....thought it would be more impressive....blah, blah, blah. For goodness sake. If you are at a small Catholic parish church in Canterbury or the Cathedral you are someplace beautiful AND historic in one way or another. Appreciate it and understand many people never get to travel anywhere.
While it's impossible to know the customs of every single country, it's very easy to do a little research before traveling to avoid embarrassing moments. These tips can help you stand out a little less and may even keep you safer during your travels. Enjoy reading the rest of these cultural faux pas, and don't forget to upvote your favorite examples. Then let us know in the comments what the most common mistakes are that you see tourists make in your country!
#29
My friend telling locals in a poor part of the Dominican Republic that he has a Mercedes-Benz S550 back in NY on top of showing all the most luxurious pictures of what he does in America which then lead people to believe me and him were super rich americans. This may not be the worst but telling people you have a car like that when your a poor country is never a good idea as some of these folks basically will look at you like a walking atm
Dan Padgett 2 years ago (edited)
Your friend is a douche but so are you for assuming all poor people are going to rob you.
#30
Wearing mariachi hats.
Just don't.
What do you think ?
Bill Evs 2 years ago (edited)
One I would add if you're visiting the UK is pack every type of clothing for every type of weather you reasonably can. There's the stereotype it's always raining but in reality our weather is so changeable in just a few hours it's crazy. You can start the day off with torrential rain, by midday it's blazing hot sunshine, thunderstorms in the early evening and then calm and mild at night. That's why Brits talk a lot about the weather, it's like a sentient beast constantly trying to screw with us for a laugh
DuchessDegu 2 years ago
And sometimes it's significantly warmer at night than during the day.
Load More Replies...
A Jones 2 years ago
Research, research, research! This will save ya! Do it for a few days, not just hour in the afternoon. It'll help ya retain the info better. Things like transportation, currency, foods, sites, museums, what's safe, LAWS, MANNERS, operating hours are essential. And never forget to have at least two backup plans.
Hphizzle 2 years ago
As an American in Japan, I witnessed a group of American men, at around 10am, on a train, all with open beers in their hands. Yes, it’s legal to have open alcohol in public, but for the love of all that is holy, do a little research. 1) Day drinking is not a thing unless you’re a drunk or having a beer at lunch. 2) Drinking anything and eating on the train is very much frowned upon and you will get really polite death stares. Especially eating or drinking standing up is a no go here.
whodunnitfan2013 2 years ago
Thanks for the tips! But none of these really apply to my trip to Peru in a few days.
lenka 2 years ago
Oooh. I was there many years ago. The dont be a**e with haggling rule applies - especially outside of Lima. Peru is a developing country and the few dollars wont mean much to you but will make a big difference to the locals. I'm not sure what its like these days, but scams and pickpockets were pretty rife back then, so dont carry alot of cash, secure your valuables. Peruvian people are really lovely and if you know a little bit of spanish it will go a long way! Have fun!
Load More Replies...
Benita Valdez 2 years ago
And I'd like to add that's it's childish and rude to stare, giggle and/or comment at the naked people on beaches or men in speedos. I mean I'm not used to it in New York but come on people it's not a big deal seeing a guy in a banana hammock or a girl's boobs on the beach. This is normal outside the U.S.; shoot you'll see it sometimes in certain places in the U.S.
Roman Hans 2 years ago
That's a wonderful rule for Germany. Here we think, "People are different. If you think there's something wrong with that, there's something wrong with you."
Load More Replies...
Unaffected 2 years ago
I would also like to add influencers /foreigners tainting sacred places by getting naked or disrespecting the sacred/religious places. If you wouldn't pose naked in a church, what makes you think that it's right to pose naked at sacred tree in Bali ?
Katinka Min 2 years ago
I work in tourism and most of my American clients are great guests. Some are lesser informed than others but they are friendly, open and tip well, if they are happy. And it's easy to make them happy. If anybody is truly arrogant it's boomer Aussis (in myy experience)
Just saying 2 years ago
I live in central London and tourists seem to treat it like a theme park where you can safetly roam at will, and don't realise that if they aimlessly wander out into the road they will be mown down by a cyclist or taxi. I would guess this is the same in other picturesque European cities too.
Broken Angel 2 years ago
I have one! Do not assume everyone who lives somewhere has been to a popular tourist destination, such as a museum or park. I know it seems weird, but a lot of people have assumed I have been up the CN tower, just because I'm Canadian. Also, do not assume everyone knows everything about landmarks and buildings!
Andy Frobig 2 years ago
In New York City it's almost a point of pride for locals not to have ever been to touristy places like Times Square or the Statue of Liberty.
Load More Replies... LH25 2 years ago
What we learned travelling from the US to Europe many years ago. 1)learn a few phrases in the language of the countries you are visiting. At least how to ask if someone speaks English. We always found someone who did, but knowing how to ask politely was helpful, and respectful for that matter. 2)Learn basic exchange rates. My mom offered something like 10 times the amount to pay for a post card. We were at a chapel and the nice nun explained the basics of what each coin/bill was worth.
Karen Sandness 2 years ago
There are at least three series of excellent guidebooks for nearly every destination in the world. Read one. If you think books are too twentieth century, most of them are available in Kindle or other e-book form. Your "spontaneous" approach of just going to a country without preparation will at best, lead to a lot of wasted time and money (If you don't know that Narita Airport is 40 miles outside of Tokyo, you'll end up with a long trip on a boring stretch of freeway and a $200 taxi fare, when you could take a train or bus for between $10 and $30) and at worst, offending people (using soap in a Japanese bathtub instead of washing and rinsing before getting in) or even spending time in jail and being deported (being caught with marijuana or hashish).
Gozer LeGozerian 2 years ago
Please stop referring to looking up basic customs as doing "research" - they are NOT the same
Andy Frobig 2 years ago
You know we're all morons here so please explain the difference.
Load More Replies...
Bill Evs 2 years ago (edited)
One I would add if you're visiting the UK is pack every type of clothing for every type of weather you reasonably can. There's the stereotype it's always raining but in reality our weather is so changeable in just a few hours it's crazy. You can start the day off with torrential rain, by midday it's blazing hot sunshine, thunderstorms in the early evening and then calm and mild at night. That's why Brits talk a lot about the weather, it's like a sentient beast constantly trying to screw with us for a laugh
DuchessDegu 2 years ago
And sometimes it's significantly warmer at night than during the day.
Load More Replies... A Jones 2 years ago
Research, research, research! This will save ya! Do it for a few days, not just hour in the afternoon. It'll help ya retain the info better. Things like transportation, currency, foods, sites, museums, what's safe, LAWS, MANNERS, operating hours are essential. And never forget to have at least two backup plans.
Hphizzle 2 years ago
As an American in Japan, I witnessed a group of American men, at around 10am, on a train, all with open beers in their hands. Yes, it’s legal to have open alcohol in public, but for the love of all that is holy, do a little research. 1) Day drinking is not a thing unless you’re a drunk or having a beer at lunch. 2) Drinking anything and eating on the train is very much frowned upon and you will get really polite death stares. Especially eating or drinking standing up is a no go here.
whodunnitfan2013 2 years ago
Thanks for the tips! But none of these really apply to my trip to Peru in a few days.
lenka 2 years ago
Oooh. I was there many years ago. The dont be a**e with haggling rule applies - especially outside of Lima. Peru is a developing country and the few dollars wont mean much to you but will make a big difference to the locals. I'm not sure what its like these days, but scams and pickpockets were pretty rife back then, so dont carry alot of cash, secure your valuables. Peruvian people are really lovely and if you know a little bit of spanish it will go a long way! Have fun!
Load More Replies... Benita Valdez 2 years ago
And I'd like to add that's it's childish and rude to stare, giggle and/or comment at the naked people on beaches or men in speedos. I mean I'm not used to it in New York but come on people it's not a big deal seeing a guy in a banana hammock or a girl's boobs on the beach. This is normal outside the U.S.; shoot you'll see it sometimes in certain places in the U.S.
Roman Hans 2 years ago
That's a wonderful rule for Germany. Here we think, "People are different. If you think there's something wrong with that, there's something wrong with you."
Load More Replies... Unaffected 2 years ago
I would also like to add influencers /foreigners tainting sacred places by getting naked or disrespecting the sacred/religious places. If you wouldn't pose naked in a church, what makes you think that it's right to pose naked at sacred tree in Bali ?
Katinka Min 2 years ago
I work in tourism and most of my American clients are great guests. Some are lesser informed than others but they are friendly, open and tip well, if they are happy. And it's easy to make them happy. If anybody is truly arrogant it's boomer Aussis (in myy experience)
Just saying 2 years ago
I live in central London and tourists seem to treat it like a theme park where you can safetly roam at will, and don't realise that if they aimlessly wander out into the road they will be mown down by a cyclist or taxi. I would guess this is the same in other picturesque European cities too.
Broken Angel 2 years ago
I have one! Do not assume everyone who lives somewhere has been to a popular tourist destination, such as a museum or park. I know it seems weird, but a lot of people have assumed I have been up the CN tower, just because I'm Canadian. Also, do not assume everyone knows everything about landmarks and buildings!
Andy Frobig 2 years ago
In New York City it's almost a point of pride for locals not to have ever been to touristy places like Times Square or the Statue of Liberty.
Load More Replies... LH25 2 years ago
What we learned travelling from the US to Europe many years ago. 1)learn a few phrases in the language of the countries you are visiting. At least how to ask if someone speaks English. We always found someone who did, but knowing how to ask politely was helpful, and respectful for that matter. 2)Learn basic exchange rates. My mom offered something like 10 times the amount to pay for a post card. We were at a chapel and the nice nun explained the basics of what each coin/bill was worth.
Karen Sandness 2 years ago
There are at least three series of excellent guidebooks for nearly every destination in the world. Read one. If you think books are too twentieth century, most of them are available in Kindle or other e-book form. Your "spontaneous" approach of just going to a country without preparation will at best, lead to a lot of wasted time and money (If you don't know that Narita Airport is 40 miles outside of Tokyo, you'll end up with a long trip on a boring stretch of freeway and a $200 taxi fare, when you could take a train or bus for between $10 and $30) and at worst, offending people (using soap in a Japanese bathtub instead of washing and rinsing before getting in) or even spending time in jail and being deported (being caught with marijuana or hashish).
Gozer LeGozerian 2 years ago
Please stop referring to looking up basic customs as doing "research" - they are NOT the same
Andy Frobig 2 years ago
You know we're all morons here so please explain the difference.
Load More Replies... You May Like “Smelled Like Pee”: People Share The Most Hyped Travel Destinations That Left Them Disappointed “Commit Some Crimes, Go To Prison”: 40 People Share Where They Would Move To If Given The Chance 39 Of The Most Gorgeous Hotel Rooms That Everyone Should See, Shared By This Instagram Page
Rugile Baltrunaite
Jonas Zvilius
Denis Krotovas
Related on Bored Panda
