When you’re exploring somewhere new, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement. But travelling well isn’t just about seeing new places. It’s also about showing respect for the people, places and cultures you visit.
Being a respectful traveller can make your trip smoother and safer. More importantly, disrespectful tourists are often the reason for travel or tourism bans targeted at entire demographics. For instance, Japan has banned tourists from accessing certain locations due to disrespectful behaviour.
Learn a Few Words in the Local Language
One of the easiest ways to show respect is to learn a handful of local words.
It can even pay off to have a few lessons with a language tutor before your trip. Contrary to common belief, tutoring isn’t just for students! It’s all about learning some essential phrases and words, such as:
- Greetings hello and goodbye
- Thank you and please
- Stating directions (for taxi or Uber)
- Recalling your booking at a hotel
- Asking for help
Locals appreciate it when visitors make an effort, no matter how small.
Dress Appropriately
It’s important to remember that dress codes can vary hugely from country to country. What’s fine at home might be seen as disrespectful elsewhere, especially when visiting religious sites.
Before you travel, take a little time to research what’s expected. In some destinations, modest clothing is a sign of cultural respect. For example, many Muslim women wear abayas, which are traditional, loose-fitting, full-length robes that cover the body but not the face, hands or feet.
So, it can be useful to buy an abaya dress or any other appropriate piece of clothing to show that you’re aware of local customs and happy to follow them.
Respect Local Laws and Signs
Rules can be different abroad, and often much stricter than you’re used to. Some places have clear signs telling you not to do certain things, take photos or enter certain areas. Ignoring these signs for a selfie or a better view can get you into serious trouble.
A British tourist was filmed carving names into the ancient Colosseum in Rome. He later claimed he didn’t realise how old it was, by which point the damage was done and the act sparked outrage.
Always follow local rules, no matter how tempting that ‘perfect photo’ might be.
Don’t Be ‘That’ Tourist
Most of us have heard stories about loud, disrespectful holidaymakers making a mess of things abroad. While having fun is part of travelling, it’s worth remembering that you’re a guest.
Being too loud, ignoring local etiquette or behaving badly, especially after a few drinks, can have problematic consequences. In Spain, a restaurant didn’t hesitate to involve the police after noticing that their foreign guests were throwing cans of beer into the sea and being loud. Waking up with a fine or in a cell isn’t the kind of holiday memory you want to make.
Be Polite and Considerate
Good manners cost nothing but can take you far, especially if there’s a language barrier. Simple things like waiting your turn and keeping your voice down in busy spaces can make a big difference.
A polite traveller is far more likely to get help from locals, even despite the language barrier.
Travel opens up the world in wonderful ways. When you show respect for the people and places you visit, you don’t just see the sights, you’re welcomed in and given a better experience to remember.