How to Blend in and Not Seem Like an Annoying Tourist
One of life’s greatest joys comes from travel. However, some travelers make the world a lot less enjoyable for those around them. Certain skills let you make the most of your experience without being the annoying tourist.
From pre-trip preparation to the simple use of common manners, you can make the most of your trip and avoid giving tourists a bad name with our collection of tips.
Do Your Research Ahead of Time
Failing to plan is planning to fail. Do your research if you want to make the most of your trip, fit in well, and avoid being an annoying tourist.
There’s no shortage of resources, from books to videos and seemingly infinite travel blogs; dig deep and learn about your destination, culture, and points of interest.
What’s the Weather
Arriving at your vacation destination in the wrong clothing for the weather is a surefire way to start off on the wrong foot. During a recent trip, I discovered the need to completely repack due to a major upcoming weather change that even the locals were talking about.
Monitor the weather until you leave for the airport, being prepared will make you a better travel companion.
Dress the Part
Certain cultures reject certain clothing selections. As a tourist, you want to be respectful and honor the traditions and culture of the place you're visiting. Plan ahead and expect to dress the part, or plan to go shopping shortly after arrival.
While you might be comfortable in your familiar clothing, you could annoy and even offend people if you disrespect the locals.
Learn a Few Basic Words and Phrases
If you travel to destinations where people speak languages other than your native language, try to learn a few common words and phrases.
Learning to say please and thank you, yes and no, and you’re welcome will help you fit in, show that you value the locals, and gain favor in their eyes.
Bonus: If you have a favorite beverage, such as coffee or beer, learn to order it using the local language.
Get Off the Main Streets
Tourists flock to the common sites and attractions, and you’ll likely want to experience some of these. However, downtown areas typically have a crowded main corridor jammed with annoying tourists.
Take a detour off the main streets and gain a new perspective on the region. You’ll discover cafes, restaurants, and shops that are likely frequented by locals, and you’ll also avoid the crowds along the way.
Please, Be Polite. Thank You.
Manners go a long way toward shaking off the image of an annoying tourist. Understand that other cultures may live life differently than you’re used to, but manners never go out of style.
Before you go, learn about accepted and expected manners to respond appropriately, with respect and understanding.
Respect the Culture
Traveling allows you to discover new cultures. It doesn’t take long to realize that other people live differently than you, and it’s completely okay!
Embracing the differences that can range from seating positions in a cafe to attending a religious service, experiencing the culture of your destination gives you a more fulsome experience.
Before You Go, Know Where You’re Going
Nothing screams “tourist” more than dazed and confused travelers bumping into people while searching maps, hoping to find their way.
Don’t be an annoying tourist. Plan ahead and study your maps before going out. Whenever possible, memorize your directions to make it seem like you belong in the area you’re traveling to.
Go Where the Locals Go
Of course, no trip is complete without seeing the familiar attractions, but you can have a more enriching trip by going where the locals go.
Enjoy a meal at a family-owned restaurant, visit a local pub, and shop at a community market. You’ll experience a different and more authentic travel experience.
Make New Friends
Annoying tourists presume they’re better than others and rarely take the time to make new friends in new communities in different countries.
But making new friends reveals the true nature of a new place and creates a personal connection you will fondly recall time and time again. And if all goes well, you’ll have a new reason to revisit the destination with a place to stay.
Put Away Your Camera
From iPhones to Samsungs, cell phone cameras have come a staggeringly long way. Rarely do you catch anyone with a traditional camera, but some of us are still out there taking hundreds of photos on our cell phones.
If you're honest, how often do you look back on pictures of vacations in the past?
Snap a good picture or two, then put down your phone and enjoy the experience. Making memories is a far better way to enjoy your vacation than looking at it through a cell phone screen.
Don’t Smile So Much
It’s great to be happy. Enjoy your trip! However, many experienced travelers say that excessive smiling is a trait of American tourists and can make you stand out as an annoying tourist.
Be happy and enjoy your trip, but watch your smile so you can blend in with the locals.
Eat Local Foods
One good way to annoy people is by making a scene at every restaurant, pointing out the differences in cuisine, and commenting that the food is not like home.
Take yourself on a culinary journey. Eat the local foods. Try something new. Create a memory that lives on your palette.
Shop at Local Markets
Local markets that cater to locals are the best places to discover lower food prices and tasty treats. From locally made cheese and regional wines to unique local tastes only known to the region, sample new flavors while saving a few dollars.
Use Local Transport
Using public transport can be daunting, but it can also open your eyes to a new way of travel. Blend in by taking local transportation, including trains, buses, rickshaws, or pedicabs.
In addition to a new way of getting around, you will have the chance to open up new conversations with interesting people with unique knowledge of the area.
Leave Expensive Jewelry at Home
No one likes a show-off, but too much expensive jewelry can make you stand out. Before you leave on vacation, leave the bling at home.
It’s more important to blend in than stand out for all the wrong reasons. Excessive jewelry also makes you a target for petty crime.
Consider Staying at an Airbnb
Hotels are great, but opting for a cozy Airbnb allows you to vacation among the locals without retreating to your hotel at the end of the day.
With countless options for home and room rentals, there is something for everyone. Oftentimes, you’ll encounter lower prices at an Airbnb as well. Just remember to do your research to help ensure your safety.
Watch the Body Language
Some cultures are outgoing and vibrant, while others seem suspicious of outsiders—for good reason. You may be exceptionally friendly, greeting everyone with hugs or handshakes, but that’s not always appropriate.
Step back and watch the locals' interactions to avoid looking like an annoying tourist. Follow their lead to blend in.
Keep Your Voice Down
Like it or not, we tend to speak loudly and boldly. In some cultures, that’s okay. In others, it causes you to stand out and seem obnoxious.
Practice self-awareness and keep your voice down in public and social situations to avoid drawing unnecessary attention to yourself and fellow travelers.