There are things that a traveler must be aware of when landing on a foreign land especially when staying for quite a while. You will never know but it pays to be aware of the dos and don’ts when traveling. Being able to blend in like the locals can be a fun experience and it just displays your respect and acceptance of their culture.
Some of you are unaware or maybe lacking knowledge about the precautions to take when in a different country. So here are the dos and don’ts when traveling.
Do research before you fly to your destination. You can expect a lot of response from the internet and you will be able to know the things you can and can’t do in that country. You can also look for the best and cheapest accommodations before going to that country. You can create your itinerary easier and smarter by planning and asking the internet.
Don’t go when you don’t have a definite plan unless it’s your plan not to have an itinerary. You will save a lot of your time when you plan the things you will do and places you will visit for the first day, second day and so on. Failure to plan your agenda, then the time you will be in a different country will not be maximized.
Don’t bring a lot of cash and original IDs outside the hotel you are staying at. You can afford to lose money in your home city because you can easily borrow money from friends and family but losing money and important documents such as IDs and passport could kill the moment. Have enough money when going outside and have your important documents photocopied and leave the original in your hotel room.
In countries in which skin exposure is taken as negative, then as a traveler with such respect, do dress properly according to the country’s clothing etiquette. In countries in Middle East and Muslim countries like Malaysia, have a long skirt for girls, a t-shirt or long sleeves as long as you don’t expose too much of your midriff and neck line. And since some people can have a negative thought about one country, then try not to wear shirts which have your home country’s flag on it. It’s very patriotic but just try not to wear those.
If you feel like your stomach is sensitive, then don’t drink service waters even from restaurants. Buy from the grocery or convenient stores bottles of purified water and always carry one with you while on the road.
Be smart! Don’t look like you are completely clueless with how things work in that country you are visiting as sadly; people might take advantage of you because you are a tourist. Cab drivers can extra charge you, or a person can scam you while on the streets. Politely say no to offers you will encounter. Say no when you are charged extra few bucks. Especially, don’t go out with a stranger unless you are just hanging out in public places.
You will have too many eyes on you because of your manners are considered ill in that foreign country you are visiting, so be aware blend well with the community.