Traveling to a new destination can often be a rewarding, exciting and fulfilling adventure. Not only are you escaping from your daily routine, you are presented with new and different sights, sounds, and smells as well as opportunities to learn about the local culture.
Two important questions to ask when traveling to foreign destinations are:
- How does the local culture apply to me?
- How sensitive do I need to be to the beliefs and customs of those around me?
If possible, contact a native in your destination area and ask his/her advice on customs and etiquette. The most efficient method to locate locals is to speak directly with your destination hotel concierge. As a resident in your destination city, he/she will be able to accurately direct you to knowledgeable and trustworthy individuals who can assist you with customs information.
Once you have located a guide, specifically inquire as to what you can expect and how to prepare for your stay. Locals can guide you on things such as where to eat, what foods you might enjoy (based on your eating habits), how to dress to avoid offending the local population, personal hygiene, and how to avoid being arrested by the religious police (if you’re in Saudi Arabia, for example).
The insight a native can provide on the best way to enjoy yourself and experience the local culture, outside the luxury hotel experience, is invaluable.
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Resource: http://trip.ustia.org/safety/articles/1228/how-sensitive-do-i-need-to-be-to-local-culture/
MARIA ROSARIO CABUS
