subject: Ways To Blend In As A Tourist In Tour [print this page] There's nothing wrong with being a tourist, but for safety reasons (and pride reasons) blending in is often important. Where do you live? Do you ever see tourists visiting your hometown, sticking out like sore thumbs, fiddling with their maps and digital cameras? It's almost heart wrenching! You've probably wanted to die in the name of their embarrassment.
Before you go to your chosen destination, look up what the style of the place is, as in how the people dress. Some countries are very conservative and reserved; others not so much. If you're going to a place where the people don't show a lot of skin, don't. Being respectful to their culture will go a long way in helping you blend in.
United States citizens kind of have the reputation of being extremely loud. We can blame that on television shows like The Sopranos and The Jersey Shore. Don't live up to this reputation, not only will you stand out like a sore thumb with your accent, but people may find you annoying and unpleasant.
Most locals aren't going to be wandering around with giant backpacks fastened to them. While it's necessary to get from one place to the next with your travel pack, try not to make bringing it around with you a habit. Some sort of over the shoulder bag would probably suffice in carrying around your daily belongings, and it'll help you blend in as these are very popular all over the world.
Pay with the local currency. Many touristy areas will accept foreign money, or traveler's checks. Paying with the local currency will make you less of a target. Also, know the conversion before you pay so that you're not fumbling with your money and trying to solve math problems with your fingers while everyone else waits impatiently behind you.
The truth of the matter is, you are a tourist, and even if you abide by all of these tips you may still be recognized as one. However, the tourists who at least try to blend in with their surroundings are less likely to be pin pointed for petty crimes like pick pocketing, they're also less likely to be ripped off while shopping, touring, etc. If you look like you're aware of the fact that you're out of your element but you're not trying to flaunt it, things are likely to work out a little bit better for you.
If you're smart about your surroundings and take care in what you flaunt and how you display yourself as a foreigner, your travel experience will only be that much better. Beyond avoiding embarrassment, taking these precautions will ensure that you're traveling safely.
