5 Travel Etiquette Tips
Places are starting to open up, and travel is on the rise again. For the past two or so years, have been couped up in their homes and they are ready to get back to the pre-COVID days. It has been a long time for all of us but let us check our behavior before we get all dolled up to travel. We need to step back before we travel to reassess our travel behavior because we are ready to go! Right now, we are like kids in a candy shop. With all the excitement, we may grab candy left and right, crawling over everyone without a care, while running around like crazy breaking things. Sugar rush! That excitement cannot be contained but we need to remember when we travel, we are venturing out to another person’s homeland, another person’s community. We may be out of practice, but it is important to practice proper travel etiquette.
1. Learn about the location you are traveling to.
This goes without saying but in light of the recent pandemic it is important to learn more about your destination. I mean, why would you go somewhere you know nothing about? When making your plans, learn about your destination pandemic guidelines. Some local or state-side destinations may have laxed the guidelines. However, if traveling abroad you may still be dealing with social distancing requirements.
Apart from social distancing, it is always good to read about destination. Learning about the history, the culture, the language, and the food is a great way to get you excited about your vacation. What is on your “must-see” list? What restaurants have you heard make the best local cuisine? Which local park has the best festivals? What a wonderful feeling it is to get out of our house and see the world. What adventure lies ahead of you?
2. Be a gracious traveler.
When we travel, we are guests in someone’s home. Respecting the land, the culture, and the people is important. We do not always do so because we get caught up in our excitement of being in an amazing location that is beautiful and rich of adventure. Our parents taught us how to act towards others when we were young. Saying “please” and “thank you” are valued words in any language and in any culture. Being kind and gracious is a great way to travel. The respect you show will improve your experience and you may make lifelong friends.
You may not always understand the culture and you may disagree with different ways of life. You may not go back again but the key is to continue to be gracious. Many of the individuals you will be interacting with rely on the tourists to visit which will feed not only the local economy but also their families. And yes, you did put your hard-earned money into your trip, and you are wanting to get a return to your investment but the point I want to stress is continuing to be gracious. Travel with an open mind to experience all aspects of your adventure!
3. Be an adventurous traveler.
Enjoy your adventure! That is the most important part of traveling. You have chosen your ideal destination, you have made plans, and have waited and your vacation is finally here. Can traveling be stressful? Yes. Will there be stressful moments during your trip? Yes. What you should remember is this is your time to be free, to have fun, and to make long-lasting memories. Accept all the tours you are able to. Eat at all the restaurants that you can eat at. See all the sights that you can see. This is your adventure. This is your time to enjoy.
Summer is approaching and I know we need a vacation. Always remember to be respectful and soak up everything you experience. It has been too long since we have traveled, and I know we are ready to get out there. Have fun, everyone!