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People Are Sharing 30 ‘Unwritten’ Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know

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When we go abroad, we like to speak louder, gesticulate more, and play the 'dumb tourist' card whenever we get in trouble. But it would probably be wiser to just do a little homework before our trip and save ourselves the embarrassment in the first place.

In an attempt to collect the most valuable travel advice, Redditor u/Skinnysaif asked other users: "What should tourists NEVER do in your country?" and luckily for them (and now us), people from all over the world replied, sharing tidbits of information that can make journeys to foreign lands a lot more pleasurable. Here are some of the answers.

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#1

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know Concentration camps are not a place for you get your stupid selfies for your "influencer" profile. Those tracks you're standing on transported many to their death.

It's okay to take pictures for pictures for memories that you came here. But those people who come here to take "sexy" selfies have no place being here.

[deleted] , Rafael Wagner Report

Final score:

541points

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Cory and G Varga, the wife and husband duo behind an awesome blog called You Could Travel, for example, always research the customs of the place they're going to. "It's paramount that we do so," they told Bored Panda. "First of all, we don't want to get in trouble (imagine wearing a mini skirt in Abu Dhabi or kissing in Saudi Arabia). But we also research because we want to blend in with the locals and not stand out like sore thumbs."

The couple said it has plenty of benefits. "Locals appreciate us and give us better treatment and service. Not to mention that we set a good example for our fellow countrymen."

#2

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know Australia. For f**k 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 American picking a fight with a kangaroo. (The Kangaroo won)

Rumplestiltskin1254 , Michael Report

Final score:

360points

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"When we're abroad we only give ourselves the freedom to try interesting culinary delicacies which we'd otherwise avoid back home. Other than that, we do what the locals do," Cory and G Varga said. "Tourists should read about the local customs and follow them as much as possible. Ideally, they wouldn't be loud or disrespect anyone. They should always follow the local dress code, understand how to behave in public, and even how to eat in a restaurant. Pay close attention to local holidays and learn a few things in the local language. Nobody asks tourists to spend days reading novels about the countries they are about to visit but to just be decent and respect their fellow humans."

However, it's impossible to learn everything. Sometimes, you make mistakes even with the best intentions. But that's OK! "When this happens the best thing to do is to apologize. And mean it!" the traveling couple said. "If there's no language barrier, explain that you've mistaken and you are very sorry for the issues you've caused. Ask someone to teach you how to do better next time. Show interest in the locals and strive to do better next time."

Cory and G Varga highlighted that it takes just 20-30 minutes of online research to understand some local customs. "As long as we all respect the basic rules, are kind and considerate, locals will be happy to accommodate tourists and welcome them to their countries."

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#3

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know 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 Report

Final score:

325points

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#4

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know Here in the U.S. in south 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 Report

Final score:

290points

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#5

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know In Japan, bow to people who bow to you. In general, bow to people when they give you 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 Report

Final score:

270points

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#6

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know 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 Report

Final score:

269points

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#7

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know 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 neighbourhood to feel better about yourself or learn to appreciate what you have. Poverty is not entertainment

tebanano , wikimedia.commons Report

Final score:

267points

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#8

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know 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 US, but here, almost anyone can speak at least 2 languages, and very well. Pretty anyone can speak english, even more so in the cities.

I usually try to join in to any conversation americans have in the subway about how weird "those Germans" are!

MomoLittle , Shvets Anna Report

Final score:

266points

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#9

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know In Germany, you should never be afraid of talking 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 Report

Final score:

256points

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#10

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know 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 sense of communal civic pride.

Ech1n0idea , Sergei Gussev Report

Final score:

249points

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#11

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know If you're visiting Portugal, don't speak to us in Spanish. You are not in Spain, and we speak Portuguese.

fabz_martins , Lisa Report

Final score:

245points

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#12

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know In Finland, don't get too close to strangers. We really value personal space.

-manabreak , Alexandr Bormotin Report

Final score:

244points

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#13

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know In Argentina, don't ask for coffee to go. We don't have paper cups. If you go to a cafe, you're expected to sit and drink your coffee.

kimboslice11 , Angela Roma Report

Final score:

241points

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#14

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know In China, NEVER go out without carrying toilet paper or tissues on you. It's never in public restrooms so you'll want to keep some on hand.

roborabbit_mama , Vie Studio Report

Final score:

237points

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#15

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know In Jordan, if you compliment someone on something, it's impolite for that person to not 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.

[deleted] , RODNAE Productions Report

Final score:

229points

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#16

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know 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 Report

Final score:

217points

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#17

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know 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 Report

Final score:

204points

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#18

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know 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.

[deleted] , gérard Report

Final score:

199points

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#19

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know 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 Report

Final score:

199points

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#20

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know In India, traffic lanes exist on the roads, but people don't drive in them.

[deleted] , Alex Graves Report

Final score:

190points

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#21

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know 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 Winkler Report

Final score:

188points

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#22

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know Washington DC.

Do. Not. Leave. Trash. At. The. Monuments.

Also, get out of the water. It's not a pool.

WatchTheBoom , wikimedia.commons Report

Final score:

182points

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#23

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know 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 Report

Final score:

181points

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#24

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know 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 Report

Final score:

178points

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#25

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know Singaporean here

You are allowed to wear Flip flops and shorts wherever you go. The fancy city area? Flipflop and Shorts are perfect. That 5 star hotel? Flip flops are welcomed. Public transport? You are weird if you do not wear them

SirPalat , Dương Nhân Report

Final score:

176points

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#26

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know In Denmark, do not stand or walk in the bike lane. You will get yelled at...and/or hit by a cyclist.

Tiralina , maksgelatin Report

Final score:

165points

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#27

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know 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 to animals here. Just please stay safe and obey the rules to save lives.

the10starpotato , Hu Chen Report

Final score:

154points

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#28

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know 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 Report

Final score:

151points

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#29

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know 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 be rich enough to live in different countries as my mood and politics changes, but that is not in the cards.

jimbo_throwaway77 , r. nial bradshaw Report

Final score:

114points

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#30

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know 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.

[deleted] , Michael Fousert Report

Final score:

111points

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#31

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know If you're taking the bus in Sweden, never sit down next to another person if there are other empty seats available.

Draculas_Dentist , Maria EklindFollow Report

Final score:

47points

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#32

been hearing a lot of northern Europeans talking about bike lanes, so: In America, if you rent a bike, you should be aware that even if the bike lane is painted onto the street in a rainbow pattern with flashing neon lights, nobody gives a [damn]. You are not safe in the bike lane.

[deleted] Report

Final score:

47points

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#33

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know In Malaysia, it is absolutely normal for someone to ask you what race you are, so don't be taken aback if you are asked. It isn't meant to be offensive. It's just general curiosity.

Hedgehog_amputee , Priscilla Du Preez Report

Final score:

44points

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#34

Southerners, USA: Be really mindful if someone says "bless your heart," because that could mean you earned high favor or just stepped in a big pile of trouble.

napalmkitten Report

Final score:

43points

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#35

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know In Mexico City, never get into a cab before making sure it has a visible sign with the driver's ID and a working meter. Also you might want to follow your location on a map so you'll know if the driver is taking you around in circles.

Porfinlohice , Simon Law Report

Final score:

39points

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#36

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know Times Square does not represent the whole city.

Spend 15-20 minutes there looking at all the signs and lights then get away because it's s**thole. My advice would be to explore lower Manhattan

MaizeNBlueWaffle , wikimedia.commons Report

Final score:

39points

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#37

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know I live in Singapore, and in fast food restaurants and food courts there's a common practice called chopeing where one can reserve a table by placing a packet of tissues on top. Tourists who haven't heard of this and take a reserved seat will often get dirty looks from the local who choped the table.

RadioactiveNewt , why_the_babies_wet Report

Final score:

38points

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#38

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know In Sicily, never order a specific bottle of wine at a restaurant. Just ask for the house vino. It'll be cheaper and better. Also, there is no butter with your bread, so don’t ask.

samantham4162a72e5 , Breakingpic Report

Final score:

38points

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#39

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know DON'T CALL IT IRELAND DON'T CALL IT BRITAIN.

Just call it northern Ireland.

[deleted] , Wikimedia.Commons Report

Final score:

38points

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#40

Do not say ‘you live in the UK? omg I love London!’. The entire UK population does not live in one city.

It’s particularly worse when you say you’re from Wales, because you usually get the ‘is that a city in England?’ statement. The best part is... they’re being completely serious. To be fair this is mostly an American thing, considering they (as I understand it) mostly learn the geography of their own country.

Final score:

38points

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#41

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know In Germany our waiters usually earn above minimum wage so you never tip more than 15%. A 10% tip, or just rounding up, is normal for an average check.

ABoutDeSouffle , Jessie McCall Report

Final score:

36points

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#42

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know In many metro cars in France, the doors still have a manual open signal. If you're closest to the exit door, you're expected to twist the lever to make it open. Do this just a second before the train actually stops to look like a local.

Extermikate , Kaique Rocha Report

Final score:

35points

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#43

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know If you're visiting the US, don't try to see too much. Rather, pick a specific area and do everything you can there. If you try to see the Statue of Liberty, the Smithsonian, the Alamo, and the Grand Canyon, you're going to spend your entire trip driving. It's a BIG country.

BlueBackedRobin , Daniel Bendig Report

Final score:

33points

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#44

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know In big Italian cities like Rome and Venice, don't eat in restaurants or bars in famous places or next to major sites. A coffee in Piazza San Marco in Venice could cost you like $30.

neoandrex , Eneida Nieves Report

Final score:

29points

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#45

I live in Japan. When riding an escalator, everyone stands on the left if they're going to stand so that people that want to walk can pass by on the right.

julianjalapeno Report

Final score:

29points

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#46

Amsterdam: ride your rentabike bike carefully. At first glance it seems there aren't any rules, but there are lots of them. One is not to get yourself or others killed.

Extraordinarliy Report

Final score:

29points

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#47

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know When you sit down to eat in a restaurant in Portugal, the waiter will bring you bread, olives, or some other snacks. If you eat it, expect to pay for it. If you don't touch it, they'll take it away and pretend like never existed.

BaiRuoBing , Neil Barnwell Report

Final score:

27points

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#48

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know Greece

Don't get offended when someone lights up a cigar without asking for your permission to smoke.

masongr , Roman Pohorecki Report

Final score:

27points

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#49

People Are Sharing 30 'Unwritten' Rules In Their Countries That Tourists Should Know It's very subtle but never shake hands or exchange things with your left hand. The majority of the country is religious and even though some are not religious, its still part of their culture. Its considered very rude and sometime unhygienic

Zealous_Racer , Pixabay Report

Final score:

19points

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Rokas Laurinavičius

Rokas is a writer at Bored Panda with a BA in Communication. After working for a sculptor, he fell in love with visual storytelling and enjoys covering everything from TV shows (any Sopranos fans out there?) to photography. Throughout his years in Bored Panda, over 300 million people have read the posts he's written, which is probably more than he could count to.

Rokas is a writer at Bored Panda with a BA in Communication. After working for a sculptor, he fell in love with visual storytelling and enjoys covering everything from TV shows (any Sopranos fans out there?) to photography. Throughout his years in Bored Panda, over 300 million people have read the posts he's written, which is probably more than he could count to.

Justinas Keturka

I'm the Visual Editor at Bored Panda, responsible for ensuring that everything our audience sees is top-notch and well-researched. What I love most about my job? Discovering new things about the world and immersing myself in exceptional photography and art.

I'm the Visual Editor at Bored Panda, responsible for ensuring that everything our audience sees is top-notch and well-researched. What I love most about my job? Discovering new things about the world and immersing myself in exceptional photography and art.

What do you think ?

Susie Elle 3 years ago (edited)

In The Netherlands: on the 4th of May, the day before Liberation Day, we have a remembrance day for those that lost their lives during WW2 (these days it's been expanded to remember those that lost their lives in war or peace operations). At two minutes to eight in the evening, everyone will hold two minutes of silence. And we mean SILENCE. In stores, restaurants, public transport - SILENCE. Even the trains and busses stop moving for two minutes (most of them, anyway). People sometimes stop in the streets. If you're a tourist and you open your mouth during these two minutes, even if it's just out of ignorance, you WILL get dirty looks.

16points

Amsterdude 3 years ago

It actually starts at 20.00 sharp and ends at 20.02. Other than that, you're absolutely right.

2points

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Agfox 3 years ago (edited)

If you happen to be in Australia or New Zealand on ANZAC Day, the 25th of April, do not wish anyone a 'Happy ANZAC Day'. It is NOT a day of celebration but one of remembrance for Australians and New Zealanders who served & died "...in all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations."

15points

MzFitz1215 3 years ago

I can understand that, people here in the US who say Happy Memorial Day drive me crazy.

8points

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Ranch Dressing 3 years ago

When in Sweden don't get into an unlicensed taxi. Licenced ones have legitimate phone numbers on the sides of the car.

8points

Chich 3 years ago

Canada. Don't jump out of your car and try to pet the big fluffy cows (Bison)

7points

Cori 3 years ago

Oh, my! Yeah, no. They definitely do NOT want to be petted.

1point

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AtomKat 3 years ago (edited)

In South Africa, don’t be offended by the term ‘coloured’. Here, it is it’s own ethnicity - with it’s own culture, vernacular, and deeply-rooted history. ‘Mixed race’ is a completely different thing that usually (correct me if I’m wrong here) just refers to having parents of two different descents, but ‘coloured’ is it’s own thing that is vastly different from what, for example, Americans associate with the word. Also we will enforce incorrect stereotypes (like riding to work on lions) because we think it’s funny. Also teaching foreigners incorrect vernac (“jy’s ‘n poes is not a good thing to say btw) And ‘robots’ means traffic lights. No idea why.

5points

not your average weirdo 3 years ago (edited)

I grew up in northern Arizona. A pet peeve I have: NEVER. CARVE. THINGS. INTO. THE. TREES! Alot of the trees here are very old and I hate it when people write on them.

4points

Colin Matthews 3 years ago

If you are coming to New Zealand, make sure you are well prepared if you want to go hiking or tramping. Its not an eco Disneyland, and weather can change very quickly. Make sure you follow the rules for remote huts etc. Don't assume a day trip is automatically harmless etc

4points

AnnaBanana 3 years ago

Same in Australia. People die because they think they'll just "get in the car and drive". Most of this country is uninhibited!

3points

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jk nbt 3 years ago

the recreational marijuana/drug laws are different from state to state in the US... do not bring the marijuana you bought on your expensive, fun ski trip to Colorado down to Texas or any other state where it is still prohibited... You can be charged with a felony if it is a large amount... so get rid of your pot before you get on the plane to visit ex-pat relatives in a more conservative state... You have been warned!

3points

Memere 3 years ago

The state highway patrol in Kansas has made a boatload of money from catching weed tourists coming from Colorado, and I'm sure all the other border states have too!

1point

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RatherLoopy 3 years ago

In the U.S.A., variants of "How are you?" are common greetings but we don't really want to know how you are. We generally hope you're doing well but if not, we'd really rather not hear about it. Acceptable responses to "how ya doin'?" are "fine," "don't ask," or the somewhat more sarcastic "living the dream."

3points

Kori Chamberlain 3 years ago

Its a custom that can drive some of our fellow Americans nuts, because it’s kind of phony. However, just “Hello.”, with no follow up, ends up sounding flat and a little closed off. 🤷🏽‍♀️

1point

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Taylor Carroll 3 years ago

Also, in London's escalators... if you're going to stand and not walk up/down, stand on the RIGHT, walk on the LEFT.

3points

Melissa Gallo 3 years ago

same in France

2points

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Péter Rózsahegyi 3 years ago

In Hungary: don't you EVER call Budapest mistakenly Bucharest. I think it's true vice versa.

3points

Amber Medina 3 years ago (edited)

I live in a TOWN called Bay CITY, not far from a CITY called BayTOWN. When I tell people I'm from Bay City, they say, "You mean Baytown?" Yes. I got my own hometown name wrong 🙄 I feel your pain lol

0points

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the child 3 years ago

Things to know when traveling in Japen: - When you walk into a restaurant or cafe the staff will usually say 'Irassyaimase' in your general direction, it basically means welcome to the store. You don't really need to reply, but you can nod in their direction or say konnichiwa - there aren't many public bins (though most train platforms have one) so be prepared to take your rubbish home - In Japan, tattoos are associated with the Japanese mafia (the yakuza) and people with tattoos are generally not permitted to use onsen (hot springs), so check what your hotel or bathhouse does for that sort of thing - If someone laughs while trying to communicate with you, they are unlikely to be laughing at you. either something was legitimately funny or they are embarrassed

2points

Margrét Hauks 3 years ago

Iceland. Stop getting yourselves killed by not following safety rules. If theres a sign saying not to go somewhere, its because otherwise you will die. Also, NO offroad driving. You wanna get somewhere remote, you hike.

2points

Jennie Stilton 2 years ago

When visiting the Black Hills of South Dakota, please leave the wildlife alone. When at Custer State Park, NEVER get out of your car to approach a bison. Also, don't ask a Native American what his or her "Indian name" is, or do that stupid thing where you hit your hand over your mouth repeatedly while yelling.

1point

Llama_flower93 3 years ago

East Coast of Canada, and probably for any coastal tourist destination, do not walk on the large dark coloured rocks by the ocean. Many have slipped and fallen only to be injured or drowned having done so.

1point

Tee Witt 3 years ago

In Britain it would be nice if Americans mainly did not try and rive as if they are at home. Vehicles on our narrow roads flying around on the wrong side cause far too many fatalities and skip- off home before they can be dealt with. This is not only diplomats either.

1point

Deborah B 3 years ago

In NZ, don't talk about the bat thing.

1point

Samantha Floyd 2 years ago

Question for UK natives here. When visiting the UK, I was told to (gently) shove through the crowd when on a crowded street, because saying "excuse me" or "pardon" is used to get someone's attention, and it may stop the flow of foot traffic. It's this true? Is there a more polite way?

0points

Hannah Poulter 2 years ago

Basically shove and say excuse me and sorry whilst doing it. If someone refuses to get out your way sarcastically say either under your breath whilst giving the evils.

0points

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Sara Trummer 3 years ago

In Austria, never, and I mean NEVER compare us to Germany. We are a country on our own and got quite a different culture than Germany. Also, Hitler jokes are absolutely not appreciated. Plus Vienna ain't that fab, it is actually a nasty place at night.

0points

Hetal Vyas 3 years ago

In Malaysia it's rude to point your finger, make a fist and point with your thumb.

0points

Mer☕️🧭☕️ 3 years ago

American here - I was fortunate enough to go on an England/France tour with a group from my high school (way back when the earth was green) and...man, I distanced myself as much as I could from some of them (super-entitled, rude, gimme...ugh). Anyway, on the outskirts of Paris we stayed for a week in a small hotel (still miss the jacket I lost there, dang'it) and frequented the same local restaurant for dinner. Idk how it is now but "then" more expensive drinks (sodas, etc) would be delivered before less expensive (waters), but I guess because I was better behaved? more respectful of staff and culture?, less obnoxious?, my drinks and meals tended to be delivered first/more quickly than those for the "typical American teenager with an attitude"s were. I remember some of the group kicking up a fuss because KETCHUP (of all things) wasn't readily available. The chef? tried making it for them, they were rude about how awful it was (it was, but someone tried). Ugh. Crass.

0points

Sanne H. 3 years ago

Never walk on bicycle lanes in the Netherlands.

0points

J Kwon 3 years ago

In America, we are particular about time. We all move as fast as possible all day long. If you travel here, you will get dirty looks if you inhibit our fast-paced flow. Examples: Getting to the front of a long line and talking to the cashier or not having your order ready; Having a prolonged personal conversation in the middle of a busy thoroughfare. We also expect you to be on time, whether meeting for business or pleasure. We consider it rude if someone is late. If you are expected to arrive at work at 2:30, it really means get there early and clock in at exactly 2:30, not 2:38 or 2:45. If you ask to meet me for lunch at 12:00, I will be seated at the table at 11:50 so that I may receive you if you are a couple minutes early. I know our strict adherence to time can make us appear rude to visitors when we rush past on the street, for which we apologize. We are just terrified of being a couple minutes late!

-2points

Samantha Floyd 2 years ago

I don't know why this was down voted, it can certainly be true (although not always). For other Americans, know that many other countries are more relaxed when it comes to scheduling. For those who are not used to time strictness, know that I was once fired from a job for arriving ONE minute late on my first day of work after two weeks of training that went smoothly. I was late because my car died while driving...

0points

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Susie Elle 3 years ago (edited)

In The Netherlands: on the 4th of May, the day before Liberation Day, we have a remembrance day for those that lost their lives during WW2 (these days it's been expanded to remember those that lost their lives in war or peace operations). At two minutes to eight in the evening, everyone will hold two minutes of silence. And we mean SILENCE. In stores, restaurants, public transport - SILENCE. Even the trains and busses stop moving for two minutes (most of them, anyway). People sometimes stop in the streets. If you're a tourist and you open your mouth during these two minutes, even if it's just out of ignorance, you WILL get dirty looks.

16points

Amsterdude 3 years ago

It actually starts at 20.00 sharp and ends at 20.02. Other than that, you're absolutely right.

2points

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Agfox 3 years ago (edited)

If you happen to be in Australia or New Zealand on ANZAC Day, the 25th of April, do not wish anyone a 'Happy ANZAC Day'. It is NOT a day of celebration but one of remembrance for Australians and New Zealanders who served & died "...in all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations."

15points

MzFitz1215 3 years ago

I can understand that, people here in the US who say Happy Memorial Day drive me crazy.

8points

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Ranch Dressing 3 years ago

When in Sweden don't get into an unlicensed taxi. Licenced ones have legitimate phone numbers on the sides of the car.

8points

Chich 3 years ago

Canada. Don't jump out of your car and try to pet the big fluffy cows (Bison)

7points

Cori 3 years ago

Oh, my! Yeah, no. They definitely do NOT want to be petted.

1point

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AtomKat 3 years ago (edited)

In South Africa, don’t be offended by the term ‘coloured’. Here, it is it’s own ethnicity - with it’s own culture, vernacular, and deeply-rooted history. ‘Mixed race’ is a completely different thing that usually (correct me if I’m wrong here) just refers to having parents of two different descents, but ‘coloured’ is it’s own thing that is vastly different from what, for example, Americans associate with the word. Also we will enforce incorrect stereotypes (like riding to work on lions) because we think it’s funny. Also teaching foreigners incorrect vernac (“jy’s ‘n poes is not a good thing to say btw) And ‘robots’ means traffic lights. No idea why.

5points

not your average weirdo 3 years ago (edited)

I grew up in northern Arizona. A pet peeve I have: NEVER. CARVE. THINGS. INTO. THE. TREES! Alot of the trees here are very old and I hate it when people write on them.

4points

Colin Matthews 3 years ago

If you are coming to New Zealand, make sure you are well prepared if you want to go hiking or tramping. Its not an eco Disneyland, and weather can change very quickly. Make sure you follow the rules for remote huts etc. Don't assume a day trip is automatically harmless etc

4points

AnnaBanana 3 years ago

Same in Australia. People die because they think they'll just "get in the car and drive". Most of this country is uninhibited!

3points

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jk nbt 3 years ago

the recreational marijuana/drug laws are different from state to state in the US... do not bring the marijuana you bought on your expensive, fun ski trip to Colorado down to Texas or any other state where it is still prohibited... You can be charged with a felony if it is a large amount... so get rid of your pot before you get on the plane to visit ex-pat relatives in a more conservative state... You have been warned!

3points

Memere 3 years ago

The state highway patrol in Kansas has made a boatload of money from catching weed tourists coming from Colorado, and I'm sure all the other border states have too!

1point

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RatherLoopy 3 years ago

In the U.S.A., variants of "How are you?" are common greetings but we don't really want to know how you are. We generally hope you're doing well but if not, we'd really rather not hear about it. Acceptable responses to "how ya doin'?" are "fine," "don't ask," or the somewhat more sarcastic "living the dream."

3points

Kori Chamberlain 3 years ago

Its a custom that can drive some of our fellow Americans nuts, because it’s kind of phony. However, just “Hello.”, with no follow up, ends up sounding flat and a little closed off. 🤷🏽‍♀️

1point

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Taylor Carroll 3 years ago

Also, in London's escalators... if you're going to stand and not walk up/down, stand on the RIGHT, walk on the LEFT.

3points

Melissa Gallo 3 years ago

same in France

2points

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Péter Rózsahegyi 3 years ago

In Hungary: don't you EVER call Budapest mistakenly Bucharest. I think it's true vice versa.

3points

Amber Medina 3 years ago (edited)

I live in a TOWN called Bay CITY, not far from a CITY called BayTOWN. When I tell people I'm from Bay City, they say, "You mean Baytown?" Yes. I got my own hometown name wrong 🙄 I feel your pain lol

0points

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the child 3 years ago

Things to know when traveling in Japen: - When you walk into a restaurant or cafe the staff will usually say 'Irassyaimase' in your general direction, it basically means welcome to the store. You don't really need to reply, but you can nod in their direction or say konnichiwa - there aren't many public bins (though most train platforms have one) so be prepared to take your rubbish home - In Japan, tattoos are associated with the Japanese mafia (the yakuza) and people with tattoos are generally not permitted to use onsen (hot springs), so check what your hotel or bathhouse does for that sort of thing - If someone laughs while trying to communicate with you, they are unlikely to be laughing at you. either something was legitimately funny or they are embarrassed

2points

Margrét Hauks 3 years ago

Iceland. Stop getting yourselves killed by not following safety rules. If theres a sign saying not to go somewhere, its because otherwise you will die. Also, NO offroad driving. You wanna get somewhere remote, you hike.

2points

Jennie Stilton 2 years ago

When visiting the Black Hills of South Dakota, please leave the wildlife alone. When at Custer State Park, NEVER get out of your car to approach a bison. Also, don't ask a Native American what his or her "Indian name" is, or do that stupid thing where you hit your hand over your mouth repeatedly while yelling.

1point

Llama_flower93 3 years ago

East Coast of Canada, and probably for any coastal tourist destination, do not walk on the large dark coloured rocks by the ocean. Many have slipped and fallen only to be injured or drowned having done so.

1point

Tee Witt 3 years ago

In Britain it would be nice if Americans mainly did not try and rive as if they are at home. Vehicles on our narrow roads flying around on the wrong side cause far too many fatalities and skip- off home before they can be dealt with. This is not only diplomats either.

1point

Deborah B 3 years ago

In NZ, don't talk about the bat thing.

1point

Samantha Floyd 2 years ago

Question for UK natives here. When visiting the UK, I was told to (gently) shove through the crowd when on a crowded street, because saying "excuse me" or "pardon" is used to get someone's attention, and it may stop the flow of foot traffic. It's this true? Is there a more polite way?

0points

Hannah Poulter 2 years ago

Basically shove and say excuse me and sorry whilst doing it. If someone refuses to get out your way sarcastically say either under your breath whilst giving the evils.

0points

Load More Replies...

Sara Trummer 3 years ago

In Austria, never, and I mean NEVER compare us to Germany. We are a country on our own and got quite a different culture than Germany. Also, Hitler jokes are absolutely not appreciated. Plus Vienna ain't that fab, it is actually a nasty place at night.

0points

Hetal Vyas 3 years ago

In Malaysia it's rude to point your finger, make a fist and point with your thumb.

0points

Mer☕️🧭☕️ 3 years ago

American here - I was fortunate enough to go on an England/France tour with a group from my high school (way back when the earth was green) and...man, I distanced myself as much as I could from some of them (super-entitled, rude, gimme...ugh). Anyway, on the outskirts of Paris we stayed for a week in a small hotel (still miss the jacket I lost there, dang'it) and frequented the same local restaurant for dinner. Idk how it is now but "then" more expensive drinks (sodas, etc) would be delivered before less expensive (waters), but I guess because I was better behaved? more respectful of staff and culture?, less obnoxious?, my drinks and meals tended to be delivered first/more quickly than those for the "typical American teenager with an attitude"s were. I remember some of the group kicking up a fuss because KETCHUP (of all things) wasn't readily available. The chef? tried making it for them, they were rude about how awful it was (it was, but someone tried). Ugh. Crass.

0points

Sanne H. 3 years ago

Never walk on bicycle lanes in the Netherlands.

0points

J Kwon 3 years ago

In America, we are particular about time. We all move as fast as possible all day long. If you travel here, you will get dirty looks if you inhibit our fast-paced flow. Examples: Getting to the front of a long line and talking to the cashier or not having your order ready; Having a prolonged personal conversation in the middle of a busy thoroughfare. We also expect you to be on time, whether meeting for business or pleasure. We consider it rude if someone is late. If you are expected to arrive at work at 2:30, it really means get there early and clock in at exactly 2:30, not 2:38 or 2:45. If you ask to meet me for lunch at 12:00, I will be seated at the table at 11:50 so that I may receive you if you are a couple minutes early. I know our strict adherence to time can make us appear rude to visitors when we rush past on the street, for which we apologize. We are just terrified of being a couple minutes late!

-2points

Samantha Floyd 2 years ago

I don't know why this was down voted, it can certainly be true (although not always). For other Americans, know that many other countries are more relaxed when it comes to scheduling. For those who are not used to time strictness, know that I was once fired from a job for arriving ONE minute late on my first day of work after two weeks of training that went smoothly. I was late because my car died while driving...

0points

Load More Replies...

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