Let’s be real, I don’t think anyone intends to be a tacky tourist. In fact most want an immersive experience. Otherwise why even bother traveling? You could just stay at home watching a destination’s highlight reel.
If you want to avoid being the stereotype, there are some small adjustments you can make in order to blend in a bit more.
Here are my 5 ways to not be a “tourist”.
Walk with Purpose
Before setting out to explore, have a general game plan of what you are planning to do, so that you don’t appear lost or give someone a reason to approach you to take advantage of your “tourist” state of mind.
Walking with a purpose means going with the flow of pedestrian traffic and having an air of confidence (not arrogance). It’s always ok to get sidetracked, because how else do you find those spontaneous amazing memories? So if you see a famous building or smell heaven, then you go for it – just avoid causing traffic jams while doing so!
Say you do get lost? Own it! Find a café or stand off to the side of the sidewalk and get your bearings. Stopping smack dab in the middle of the road means you will be given the stink eye. Honestly, who actually likes being “that tourist”?
Avoid the Tourist Uniform
Have you ever noticed how quickly you can tell when someone is “just visiting”? Maybe they have obvious tell signs like an expensive camera slung across their chest (not in a bag, just exposed), wearing clothing that is outside of the norm for the area (like tank tops in Japan), or giving a big grin to everyone (I have seen more than just Americans guilty of this).
What you wear and carry is a calling card as to who you are. If you look like a tourist, they will assume that you will not be able to resist whatever they are selling since you are looking for memories. Whether you have shopping bags, bulky cameras, or a stack of guidebooks, people will take notice and make certain assumptions. So don’t be surprised when a stranger comes up to you with their goods to sell, because they noticed your “ I Love ___” t-shirt and the exposed camera on your table.
Educate Yourself on the Cultural Norms
How helpful would it have been to know that rubbing chopsticks together in Japan is considered offensive? Or tipping in some countries is unnecessary? Or how about not calling San Francisco ‘frisco ?
The Internet is definitely your best friend when it comes to researching cultural norms. There are some really engaging videos dedicated to certain countries (like Abroad in Japan on Youtube). If you are more of a reader, there are also plenty of articles that go in depth about the do’s and don’ts. Just search “Do’s and Don’ts in ____” or “10 Things not to do in ____”. By doing a general search, you will find a lot of people ready to show you their norms.
Remember, in the end we are all human beings. Things such as kindness, courtesy, and common sense go a long way. It just helps to know some of the cultural norms in order not to stick out.
Don’t be Picky
Tell me why you would fly all the way to a far off country, and then order a burger and fries? The only excuse I will take is that you have small children traveling with you. Otherwise, get that dish you can’t pronounce.
Even if you have dietary restrictions, there will be food options available. In more urban areas, most menus have symbols for vegetarian, nuts, or spice options. If you have an allergy and want to convey that to your waiter, just ask or present a written card to avoid confusion.
With all the food variety, why not eat like a local? Food is a great way to immerse in another culture. There is so much history behind the food, plus it will look great to show your friends how adventurous you are.
Understand How to Say “No”
So say that you did attract attention (sometimes it is unavoidable) from the people who prey on visitors. They are pretty easy to spot. These are the ones not sitting within established shops or booths. These are the ones that come up to you and thrust their “gifts” into your hands, and then demand some sort of payment. Other tactics include following and shouting after you, or guilt trip you in purchasing their services. Read more about my thoughts on them here.
Reality is that you have places to go, and things to see. If you really want a souvenir, get it when you are good and ready so that you make an informed purchase. Don’t be overly polite, and don’t bother trying to reason. Just give a firm no and walk away. Don’t let them keep you talking to them longer than you have to. They will take advantage of your politeness, and more often than not become more aggressive.
Ok, so now you are ready to get out there!
What is nice about the above suggestions is that you can apply them to anywhere you go! These ideas hold true no matter where you are in the world. Whether you are backpacking in Europe or visiting Asia for the first time, you will now be able to avoid the stigma that follows the word “tourist”.
