When we go abroad, we like to speak louder, gesticulate more, and play the 'dumb tourist' card whenever we get in trouble. But it would probably be wiser to just do a little homework before our trip and save ourselves the embarrassment in the first place.
In an attempt to collect the most valuable travel advice, Redditor u/Skinnysaif asked other users: "What should tourists NEVER do in your country?" and luckily for them (and now us), people from all over the world replied, sharing tidbits of information that can make journeys to foreign lands a lot more pleasurable. Here are some of the answers.
#21
In Korea, the eldest person at the table should start eating first. Don't pick up your chopsticks, spoon, or whatever utensil you're using until the oldest person has started eating.
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188points
#22
Washington DC.
Do. Not. Leave. Trash. At. The. Monuments.
Also, get out of the water. It's not a pool.
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182points
#23
In Paris, you should always say "bonjour" when entering a shop or restaurant and "au revoir" when leaving. Even if you don't purchase anything or walk right in and out.
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181points
#24
In Vietnam, commit to crossing the road. It looks scary with the endless scooter stampedes, but if you just cross at a steady pace, they'll avoid you. Do not try to dodge or make sudden movements. Just simply walk across.
178points
#25
Singaporean here
You are allowed to wear Flip flops and shorts wherever you go. The fancy city area? Flipflop and Shorts are perfect. That 5 star hotel? Flip flops are welcomed. Public transport? You are weird if you do not wear them
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176points
#26
In Denmark, do not stand or walk in the bike lane. You will get yelled at...and/or hit by a cyclist.
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165points
#27
In South Africa when you go on a “safari” (we call it a game drive), you must never ever get out of your vehicle or get close to any big animals because that is how there are stories of people dying to animals here. Just please stay safe and obey the rules to save lives.
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154points
#28
Switzerland is really expensive, and you should know that ahead of time. Don't make that surprised face when you have to pay $15 for a Subway sandwich.
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151points
#29
Assume that I support Trump or am a fundamentalist Christian because I am a white American male. I've been talked down to by Germans in particular and don't like it. I wish I had more than one vote, or be rich enough to live in different countries as my mood and politics changes, but that is not in the cards.
114points
#30
Don't talk to anyone in public. Only approach people for conversations if they are receptionists or something similar.
It's not for your security or anything, but it freaks us the hell out. No one talks to strangers in Norway, unless you're hiking and above the treelines.
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111points
