Want a more intimate look at the local culture on your next foreign vacation? Never underestimate the benefits of blending in. Not only can it allow you – as a visitor – to get a better “local” experience, but it may even help keep you safe in places where being a tourist could make you a target. Here are a few ideas to help you look more like local next time you travel:
It starts when you’re at home packing… simple, muted clothing is almost always the way to go when traveling. That Canucks jersey will definitely stand out on the streets of Morocco! If you want to get an idea of how the locals at your destination dress, get online and check out pictures found in the news or other online resources that aren’t tourist brochures or guidebooks.
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Keep a low profile with your travel gear… for example, wearing a big camera around your neck wherever you go is probably the best sign that you’re a visitor, and can also make you a target for thieves. Bring the camera, but keep it under wraps a bit. The same rules go for fanny packs, guidebooks and anything else that screams “tourist.”
Give yourself a lesson on the local currency before you head out. Understand its value and various denominations – and carry it like you would when you’re at home – either in a purse or wallet. Fumbling with money not only outs you as an outsider, but can also make you a mark for thieves.
If you have a sense ahead of time what you’re going to do and how you’re going to get there on any given day – you’ll be able to navigate with confidence. Plan out your driving route or check public transit maps in your hotel room, not on the street corner.
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Speaking of driving – if you’re going to do it – be prepared and pay attention.
Stopping and starting, going under the speed limit and gawking out the windows will scream “outsider” to most other drivers on the road – not to mention you’ll likely be holding up traffic and that can make for a bad situation anywhere!
Finally, if you have time before you head out on vacation to a foreign country – learn, and use, some of the language. Of course, butchering the local language most definitely makes it clear that you aren’t a local, but you’d be surprised how much you’ll be praised for trying. Plus, the better you get – the more likely you are to get entrenched in the local culture.
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