Ten Commandments for Travelers
Posted: Sunday, September 18, 2011
by Octavia Hansen
Octavia Hansen
Americans travel a lot but are not necessarily welcome everywhere. There are so many who abuse their travel privileges it's a wonder anything is open to us anymore. Travel broadens the mind, sometimes showing us a new way, sometimes making us appreciate what we already have. To make things a little less tense and a whole lot more joyful, keep these quick tips in mind whether you are traveling to the next city, the next state or the next country.
2. Thou shalt not yell when trying to make yourself understood. If someone doesn't speak your language, and you don't speak theirs, shouting will not help. A smile goes a long way and pointing can make things very clear. If all else fails, politely ask around if someone else knows the language and can translate for you. Also, do not be afraid to ask someone to repeat a question. The second time around, things are usually slower and clearer and you can be on your way, or make that bargain, or make someone's day because they met a foreigner.
3. Thou shalt consider others when taking photographs. Just because you are a visitor does not give you the privilege to walk anywhere or make a pest of yourself searching for that perfect photo. Also, consider your fellow travelers and try not to walk in front of their picture taking. As a very friendly gesture, when you see a couple or family trying to get a group photo, offer to take it for them so everyone can be in the snapshot. Trust me, you'll want someone to do that for you sometime. You'll gain an instant friend and a great memory.
4. Thou shalt use 'please', 'thank you' and 'excuse me' in every language you know in every location, as often as possible to everyone. You are a guest wherever you go, be thankful they will put up with you. And a smile goes a long way.
5. Thou shalt not abuse hotel and travel staff. They are not pack animals nor slaves. If you overpacked, you are responsible for your stuff. Too heavy for you? It's probably too heavy for anyone else also. Be prepared to dump unnecessary items. But if there is a problem, don't steam over it, tell someone in a nice yet firm way to get something done. Don't think anything will fix itself or someone will be sensitive enough to read your mind. Noisy neighbors? Barking dog? Headache but no aspirin? Don't be mean, just tell them your problem.
6. Thou shalt remember souvenirs for all who stayed home to take care of your stuff while you were away. If your house, car, animals and stuff are safe, the someone who gave you peace of mind to travel deserves a kind thought. It doesn't have to be much but a trinket can mean a lot for someone who had to stay behind.
7. Thou shalt keep thine big mouth closed while an experienced tour guide gives history highlights. A variation in pronunciation or a year or two difference on a date does not matter, you are there for the experience and location. Even if you know better, don't fight the tour guide, it wastes everyone's time and you will miss something else while making yourself unpopular with the group.
8. Thou shalt obey all signs and requests at places of exhibition. This means not crossing a velvet rope, not touching antique objects or photographing what is forbidden. You are not the exception to any rule, no matter where you come from, how long you are staying or how much you paid. Whatever you are looking at is there because everyone else obeyed the rules and it wasn't locked away from thoughtless people. If in doubt, ask a guide or a guard or an official. A lot of things are okay but asking helps.
9. Thou shalt remember you are an ambassador. Wherever you are, you are an ambassador for your city, state and country. A negative impression can last a lot longer than a good one and ruin it for those who come after you. Maybe someone has already done that and you are being restrained because of it.
10. Thou shalt not say 'It's not like this at home.' And if you must say it to anyone in your party, don't keep repeating it. Everyone already knows this. It's not supposed to be like home, you left there for a new experience. Travel is supposed to show you different ways and things. Even if you don't like it, this, too shall pass and you will be back home in your rut sooner than you thought.
Tourist are the liquid economy of the world, most are welcome, some are tolerated for their wallets. That's life. Be kind. Smile a lot. Even a bad experience can make a great story later. All aboard, the adventure express is leaving right now!
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