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| It's not just about the looks, details like th way of greeting others and knowing the directions to each place should be resources at your disposal. |
Besides of being a good example, no matter where you go, you must be respectful to those who are around. Cultural sensitivity today is more important than it ever was, making tourists more aware when going to places they’ve never visited. This is the part where I ask most first-timers and experienced travelers this question: Do you want to blend in when traveling abroad? And just to make it clear, it’s not just about the clothing.
If the answer to my question is "yes," then bear in mind that this step-by-step is about making a change in your attitude as you visit the destination you’ve chosen. So, pack your stuff and start putting these tips into play:
1.- Respect the cultural side
Being aware of where you are is the first key to respect the locals and their customs. One good way to show it is by investigating the daily routines of the locals. If there’s something that shows appreciation is being culturally sensitive abroad.
If you leave a nice image to the locals, they’ll be more open to receive other tourists, which will make you part of the sustainable travel initiative.
2.- Buy some clothes upon arrival
First things first! Check your pockets before jumping into the first store you see. Be careful with the money you spend. Make sure you research what’s trending in the region, and avoid souvenir shacks at all costs. Buying some clothes will be the best moment of your trip because you’ll return home with some fancy wearable stuff.
3.- Learn their language
I’m not talking about knowing how to say “hello,” “good morning” and the basic stuff. My point is that you can have a formal conversation and defend yourself while visiting. No matter how much effort you put into looking like a local, if you speak like a foreigner, the whole disguise won’t mean a thing.
Learn the language and practice it for months before the trip. Doing this will make you feel more like you're part of the place you’re visiting.
4.- Search street images on the web
Forget about those idealized images on guidebooks and advertisements on touristic websites; they’re far from the real thing. Search for images on the internet such as news or other online sources; these are the true reflex of how the place will look like when you get there. Remember that these idealized images can be from months ago, so upon arrival, you might end up seeing something entirely different than what you thought.
5.- Handle cameras with responsibility
It’s understandable that you want to picture all those moments and sites you’re visiting. However, you must be responsible for the people who are not with you since they might find that taking photos of them is disrespectful. This might seem as a touristic destination, but for locals, this is their home, so be sure not to forget that.
On the other hand, the first thing that reveals a disguised tourist is the constant using of the camera. So if you’re willing to blend in, it would be wise to tone it down a bit. Keep the camera low and take some beautiful mind pictures instead!
It’s important to remember just how important it is to blend in as a tourist; it isn’t only to look “cool.” Trying not to look like a tourist will make locals feel comfortable on their daily, uninterrupted routines. If you’re willing to do this, take it seriously, and you’ll be making the difference.
Need assistance to unravel the secrets of the destination you’re about to visit? You should contact Cruise Planners – Jason Hantman to get fully informed regarding the best choices and extra information that no website can offer.
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| Learn the traditions and formalities of the city you're about to visit before arriving. This way you'll be prepared to blend in with the locals. |
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