Strive to be a ‘local’ everywhere you go. I’m serious; you’ll have a much better trip, better memories and a hell of a lot more fun. I know it’s hard for some to understand that most parts of the world aren’t very fond of us, but it’s true. So no chanting, “We’re number one”, because I doubt that we are anymore.
Make eye contact, smile and say ‘hello’ in whatever language that’s proper. I know, I know… we speak English, so everyone should. Fact: some don’t, some don’t want to, and some do, but won’t admit it. Get over it. Let’s try to change the world’s perception of us, one tourist at a time.
Yes, it will freak some people out, but I found out early on that you just DO NOT SPEAK to anyone when visiting Manhattan. God, don’t smile or even make eye contact, or you’ll probably be met with a string of swear words worthy of a dockworker.
True story! We were in South America and a small child was selling sodas, and an old man from the mid west (US) was trying to barter with a five year old. I butted in (before my husband could stop me) and asked what he expected to accomplish by his behavior. He said, “They won’t respect you if you don’t barter.” She could not have been more than five years old, for Gods sake.
I turned to his wife and said, “You know your husband is an idiot, right?” And she said, “I know, God, how I know.” The whole thing was lost on him.
Bartering with a baby. Really? When you travel, please don’t be a dick!
Love, Peace and RESPECT!
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