10 More Tips for International Travelers
A couple of days ago I listed 10 of the tools I find essential whenever I travel, along with a bunch of related tips. Today, I have more tips, this time disconnected from any particular tool or gadget.
Because most of the traveling I’ve done as an adult has consisted of longish trips overseas, these tips are going to tend to be more useful for Americans traveling abroad over two weeks or more. (Though there are a couple that really only apply to short trips.) I can’t really change that; it’s who I am and what I know. But I’d love to see some of your best tips in the comments for people who have to take shorter, more business-oriented trips (I’ve taken only one business trip in my entire life).
It might also be useful to know where my head is when I travel. In The Tao of Travel I expressed horror at the way most tourists travel. The target of my scorn isn’t the sight-seeing, what bothers me is the creation of little “bubbles” of people similar to one’s self that insulate us from the culture of the places we travel to. Of course you should visit the historical sites, the museums, the famous music halls, and the best restaurants (f you can afford them), but you should also spend time in a tiny street corner park, drink beer in a local pub, buy food from a street vendor, and wander the residential streets.
And most of all, you should meet people, regardless of the language barriers. I’ve always found that the cultural wall between us is only about a foot-and-a-half high: easy to step over with just a little effort. Use as good an approximation of their language as you can, and listen intently to their broken English — share freely of yourself and take freely what they’re willing to share with you. Otherwise, it’s all just pretty pictures.
OK, sermon time is over! It’s time to get on with the tips:
1. Use Your Debit Card
Time was when traveler’s cheques were the safest way to carry money aborad, but those days are long gone. In fact, I’m really not sure how the traveler’s cheques companies keep on going — debit cards make traveler’s cheques completely useless. They always were a hassle, anyway; unless you stayed in a hotel that offered traveler’s cheque cashing as a service to guests, they were almost impossible to spend or cash. In any case, nowadays, there are very few places where you can’t find an ATM to withdraw cash, and of course you can use debit cards just like credit cards for most purchases. Yes, you’ll pay a fee, but it’s pretty much comparable to the fee you pay for traveler’s cheques.
You can locate ATM machines in whatever countries you’re visiting at the Plus and Cirrus sites. There are three Maestro/Cirrus ATMs in Manzini, Swaziland, for example.
2. Get Used to Local Currencies
If you’re actually working in a country and earning local currencies, the faster you can get over the habit of converting prices to your native currency, the better. Every country has its own standard, and getting used to it is a big step towards understanding the local mindset.
On the other hand, if you’re just visiting, you’ll need to be careful about how you spend money. It can be easy to lose track of your spending when the local currency is some odd number to the dollar. My advice is, come up with an easy formula for conversion, and round up so that your estimate is always fewer dollars than you think.
For example, in Budapest in the mid-’90s, the local currency was around 110 Forint to the dollar (if I’m remembering properly). By assuming a Forint was equal to a US penny, I could easily decide what was worth spending my money on — and know I was actually saving a little in the bargain. If, say, the local currency was 1643 units to a dollar, I’d call it 3000 to 2 — that is, something that was 5870 whatevers would be 4 dollars. The actual price would be around $3.50, so I’d be off, but I’d be off in a way that would save me money — which is much better than running short because you got confused by the local currency.
3. Dress Well
Everyone can recognize an American tourist on the street, before she or he even opens their mouth. Our standard travel uniform is jeans or shorts, a t-shirt, sneakers, and a baseball cap on men; on women, it’s a short skirt, jeans, or shorts and a sleeveless top, along with a pair of sandals.
The problem is, in a world where many people already think poorly of Americans, our vacation dress sends the message that we don’t respect them or their culture. What’s more, you’ll find many places — churches and cathedrals, some restaurants, and many clubs — won’t let you in the door!
You don’t need a suit and tie, but you’d be surprised what a pair of khakis or a knee-length dress will do for the reaction you get from locals.
4. Rip Up Your Guides
There are some great guide books out there; I’m partial to the Lonely Planet books, myself. A good guide book gives you not only an idea of what to see and where it is, but background information about the culture, history, and language of the places you visit.
The problem is, they’re huge. You don’t want to carry that big heavy thing all over the world with you, nor do you want to give it any more of your valuable luggage space than absolutely necessary.
The solution: rip it up. Pull out only the parts relating to the countries or cities you’ll be visiting, staple them together, and drop them in a ziplock bag. As you leave a country, toss it or, better yet, pass it on to a less-prepared traveler without a guidebook to call their own.
5. Hand Out Calling Cards
Hopefully you’ll meet a lot of people along the way. Carry a small stack of business-card-sized calling cards with your name, address, and email address (and whatever other information you feel like sharing) to hand out to people you want to stay in touch with. You can have them made up just like regular business cards, print them on business card stock at home, or get creative and use a service like Moo to make cards with pictures of you, your family, and your hometown on them.
6. Learn 10 Phrases
One thing that contributes strongly to the poor image Americans (and to a great extent, Britons and Aussies too) have abroad is our relative ignorance of every language but English (and let’s face it, we’re no great shakes with English, either). While you can’t be expected to learn the native language of every single country you ever visit, you can at least make an effort to pick up a few pleasantries. Learn to say at least each of the following in the language of whatever country you’re visiting:
- Hello
- Goodbye
- Thank you
- Please
- My name is…
- Do you speak English?
- Where is the bathroom?
- Where is the train station?
- How much?
- The numbers 1 – 20.
I remember a phrasebook I once had included “Will you marry me?”, which I’ve always thought funny. Just in case it comes up, maybe you should learn that one too.
Most people will know immediately that you don’t speak their language, but that’s not the point. The point is to show that yo’re trying, and to give them a chance to laugh a little (with you, hopefully, but sometimes at you). Then they can feel comfortable about their own English (which is probably at least as good as yours, anyway).
7. The Amazing Disposable Underwear Trick
One way to lighten your load as you travel is to take all your worst underwear with you — the ones with holes, sagging waistbands, etc. Don’t ever throw away old underwear if it’s at all still wearable and you plan to travel ever! Instead, take it on your trip and, as it wears out completely, trash it. You were going to throw it away at home, anyway. Of course, if you get down to your last pair or two, you might want to buy more…
8. The Canadian Flag Trick Walk Like a Canadian
I admit, I’ve never done this, but I’ve known people who have and it works. You’ll have to sort the ethics out on your own — I’m just the messenger here.
The trick is, attach a Canadian flag patch to your backpack. You’d be surprised at how much better people will treat you — I’ve seen hostel managers turn Americans away saying there were no more rooms and then give a bed to a Canadian-patch bearing traveler a few minutes later. People are remarkably aware of the different cultures and politics of Canada and the US, and act accordingly.
Note: Remember, when you fly the Canadian flag, you’re a de facto representative of the Canadian people. Always be on your best behavior. if confronted by a Canadian, you’re on your own. Nothing so enrages them as US travelers besmirching their good name through trickery and deceit.
The Canadians I have met and traveled with overseas have been polite, courteous, and respectful of their host country’s culture and rules. Take a page from their book: speak clearly and softly, say “please” and “thank you” a lot, and forget about the patch trick.
9. Take the bus!
Take the bus or other public transportation whenever you can. It’s a great way to get your bearings in a strange city and to see the sights, including a lot of points of interest that might not have made it into your guidebook. To be honest, this is a pretty good idea in th US, too — I remember taking a group of friends, all New York and New Jersey natives, on a bus down the Museum Mile in New York City; none of them had ever taken a city bus in NYC, and all of them were impressed by what a lovely ride it was.
10. [Insert Your Tip Here]
Travel is all about creativity, so always keep your eyes open for neat ways to deal with whatever a new culture throws at you.
For those of you who think #10 is a cop-out, here’s a bonus tip: Follow tour groups. Whenever you happen across a tour group in museums and even on the street, adjust your path so that it just happens to coincide with the path the tour group is taking. You’ll get a little piece of history from someone who knows pretty well that they’re talking about. You don’t have to follow the entire tour, just take advantage of someone in a public space talking about whatever it is they’re showing off.
Like I said, I’d love to hear your tips, especially for shorter trips. Leave us a note in the comments!
WRITER'S BIOGRAPHY
Dustin Wax
Dustin M. Wax is a freelance writer and project manager at Stepcase Lifehack. He can be reached though his freelancing site at DustinWax.comDon't Be Stupid: A Guide to Learning, Studying, and Succeeding at College.
Follow him on Twitter: @dwax.
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Comments
Crazykinux says on May 9th, 2008 at 11:08 am
Some great tips you’ve got there.
I really liked #5, 6 and 7. And as a Canadian, I’m happy that you’ve warned readers to “act” as Canadians when wearing the Maple Leaf. We’re proud of our image and would like to keep it please! =)
I hope you don’t mind if I add my tips:
#10 – Carry a currency conversion card with you with 1, 5, 10, 20 and so forth in the local currency with the exchange in yours. This way you can quickly consult it to know if this is a good price. I print mine a day or two before leaving.
Happy and safe travels!
zero0 says on May 9th, 2008 at 11:39 am
For #8, _act_ like a Canadian. It gets you even further than just wearing the flag.
Cynthia Gould says on May 9th, 2008 at 12:23 pm
As a Canadian, I BEG you to remove #8 from this list. That is horribly dishonest and when americans use this trick it really speaks of their character, or lack of. If you want your country to be respected, fix your country. Do not use our reputation to your advantage.
Shame on you!
Mr. Congo Jack says on May 9th, 2008 at 12:54 pm
I agree with Cynthia. We Yanks cannot go around pretending to be Canadians. It’s terribly dishonest and could be disastrous if you are “found out”. Who knows? You might just change someone’s opinion of Americans if you don’t act like a complete tool.
Matt says on May 9th, 2008 at 1:09 pm
Hmmm, I also disagree with #8. I live in Amsterdam but spend nearly half of the year in Asia, the Middle East, Australia, and Africa. I haven’t ever experienced any prejudice for being American.
Taking the bus is a great suggestion. One of my most memorable trips was taking a bus from Zagreb to Opatija after the business part of my trip was over.
For countries that I return to often, I keep ziplocs in my apartment filled with the money from that place. Then the next time I go, I just through the bag into my carry-on and I am set for at least the taxi to the hotel. I have bags right now at home for Singapore, Malaysia, Dubai, Australia, and the US, along with a few others I might return to.
Melissa says on May 9th, 2008 at 1:21 pm
I agree with Matt. I lived in the Middle East for more than a year in 2003-2004, and was on an around-the-world trip in 2001-2002 that included Asia, Africa, and South America. I’ve never experienced any prejudice as an American. Anyway, I don’t think a Canadian flag on your backpack will help much at a hostel anyway, since every hostel I’ve ever stayed in (more than 100), has required a passport as an ID. Oh, and I’ve never been turned away.
And honestly, when I lived in Egypt and Jordan, people tended to look at me more strangely if I tried to dress like a “local.” But yes, you should be aware of places that have specific dress codes to enter, like a head covering for a mosque, or knees and shoulders covered for St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican.
Also, I have to disagree with your debit card comment. Outside of Europe and the US, cash is king. In fact, many stores will charge you up to a 10% surcharge (that’s on top of your credit card company fee) to use the credit card. Go find an ATM, and use your debit card with withdraw local currency.
Marc and Angel Hack Life says on May 9th, 2008 at 1:28 pm
Also, make a few photocopies of your passport and birth certificate. You will be glad you did if you lose your originals.
Michael Brown says on May 9th, 2008 at 1:40 pm
As a Canadian also, I have to agree with Cynthia. It is dishonest to misrepresent oneself (in any way, not just by nationality). Congo Jack has a very valid point: If you go abroad, do so on your best behaviour. You do represent your country when you travel; the people you meet may not have the chance to visit YOUR country, but they might want to if their interactions with you are pleasant.
The are two important things to remember when you travel abroad:
1. Respect the ways and customs of the place you’re travelling to; after all, you’re travelling to see and learn new things, not rehash what you already have at home.
2. Treat others the way you’d like to be treated. You’d be surprised how pleasant that can make things on your trip.
Jeff says on May 9th, 2008 at 1:53 pm
I guess you knew that the Canadian flag one was going to get lots of comments…
Aside from all the points made already about the basic silliness of that point, I challenge your basis for making it: I don’t believe you actually have seen someone turned away because they were american and the next canadian given a room and I don’t believe that you know anyone that was treated better than otherwise because of it. This, my friends, is a traveler myth.
Jeff
Sophie says on May 9th, 2008 at 2:20 pm
From my experience, the different treatment Americans get is mostly not because of their nationality. I’m Germany myself and have lived and travelled through most of Europe and met people form lots of different countries.
In my opinion (so very subjective and limited)it is not so much what it says on your passport but how you behave and your attitude towards things. Most (but not all) Americans I met wehen travelling show only very superficial interest in the countries they are visiting and have a more seen-it, done-that attitude, like all they did was mentally ticking boxes in a list of a million things to go/see/do before you die.
That perspective is not exclusive to Americans and backpackers regardless of nationality normally lose it very quickly. But pretending to be from some other country is not going to change it.
Dustin Wax says on May 9th, 2008 at 3:30 pm
ALlright, Canada. You’re all right, of course (when aren’t you?) — I tried to be as clear as possible about the ethical implications there, but I guess if you believe in the whole concept of “nations”, there is no ethical excuse. The point is, as I’ve written now, to be polite and respectful — and that doesn’t require a patch.
Melissa: I think it’s ridiculous to dress like a local in most instances, and don’t advocate it. But one can certainly drop the jeans and t-shirt act and show a little respect for the locals — and, in any case, jeans are crazy heavy. Also, I did include links to ATM locateors; cash is usually best. THe point is, don’t get caught up in the traveler’s cheques idea; it’s rarely useful these days.
Nyte says on May 9th, 2008 at 3:30 pm
My best suggestion is to not stress out about some hypothetical timetable. I know the places I travel to have a BUNCH of amazing things I might not get the chance to ever see again. But the thing is, if you don’t calm down enough to enjoy and take in the places you do make it to, all you have are pictures and no memories.
I completely agree with the local pub and street vendor suggestion. That planned restaurant may look flashy from the street, but honestly first class service from a fancy restaurant doesn’t change much from place to place. I will remember getting drunk in a pub with strangers way more than a nice dinner any day.
B Smith @ Wealth and Wisdom says on May 9th, 2008 at 3:42 pm
Great post!
#3-I can attest to dressing well. We have good friends from Sweden. They never wear jeans or shorts. Don’t get me wrong, they don’t wear suits or anything. They just dress a little nicer. Wearing khakis gets you better service and you fit in.
#8-I have never had anyone treat me poorly because I’m American. I am polite and friendly. I treat people with courtesy, and expect the same in return. They don’t dislike Americans. They dislike our governments actions (no politics here, just feedback from international friends) and RUDE Americans!
Anon says on May 9th, 2008 at 3:47 pm
Always take an extension cord with you. The location/availability of outlets can sometimes be rather impractical at times.
Shannon says on May 9th, 2008 at 4:21 pm
I’m glad you changed #8. I’m a Canadian who has vacationed in the US, and I have always found Americans to be polite, courteous, and mannerly. Don’t be so hard on yourselves! I’ve even heard that the shine has worn off on Canadians in some countries. I think if people walk around as though they deserve the best treatment, they will soon find their welcome has been worn out. Great post.
Elle says on May 9th, 2008 at 4:27 pm
Thanks for changing #8. Too bad it got all the attention, because the other tips were great. I love # 7!
Ashley says on May 9th, 2008 at 7:04 pm
I’ve always felt that misbehaved English speakers on vacation use that same trick, but with an American flag.
There is definitely cultural travel styles that can’t be easily covered. I agree with what Sophie says. If you’re a respectful American, please let people know… shock them even. I’ve never had any problems traveling abroad, and I have some thing worse than most Americans – my last name is Bush.
Shari says on May 9th, 2008 at 7:13 pm
The stereotype of Canadians as polite and soft-spoken all the time is just as biased and ignorant as that of Americans being loud and rude all the time. People from all cultures vary and I have no respect for a writer who perpetuates any stereotype, be it positive or negative.
I’ve worked in a mixed cultural environment for the last 20 years and the one thing I’ve learned is you can’t pigeonhole anyone based on their country of origin.
Lisa says on May 9th, 2008 at 8:21 pm
I loved this post. I’m actually in China at the moment and would have to add that just wandering the streets aimlessly always uncovers little gems.
Also, as a Canadian, I have seen fellow Canadians misbehaving. The point is how we act which I think you have captured anyway. One thing to be aware is the level at which we talk English – both Canadian and American. Alot more people can understand English and sometimes insensitive remarks are made at incredibly loud levels.
Great post!
arielladrake says on May 9th, 2008 at 9:16 pm
The ethics of the flag thing aside, if you’re in Australia, a Canadian Flag will get you into APEC. (youtube link)
Blu says on May 9th, 2008 at 11:51 pm
A couple of things that are perhaps a bit against light packing but are worth it:
:: Always pack a bathing suit and something dressy, one of the best things about traveling is having unexpected experiences and you’ll be prepared…
There, some advice from the unofficial Mexican ambassador
::Bring some souvenirs from your homeland, people from other countries appreciate your effort to respect and know their culture, but they also love learning from your own…
Janos says on May 10th, 2008 at 3:26 am
Re item # 8 – it should read “Drop the American flag”. Being from Scandinavia we consider use of flags to be too patriotic (actually provocative) especially use of the flag of the most controversial and aggressive nation in the world (I would have less problems with the Iranian flag). So americans: Drop the flag (and in some instances – we own the world attitude).
Anish says on May 10th, 2008 at 8:35 am
A note regarding the use of debit/credit card. Be careful of where you use it. Look carefully at the ATM machines and where they are located. Try using in a machine attached to a bank. If you have to use it someplace else, look carefully at the card reader – anything projecting out etc..
http://www.snopes.com/fraud/atm/atmcamera.asp
Paul says on May 10th, 2008 at 3:26 pm
It’s actually a shame that this article is focused on US travellers. It should either have been titled “10 more Tips for American International Travellers” or focused on tips for travellers regardless of where they are from. The comments show that this article was read by many nationalities and aiming it at an international audience would have been better (IMHO!).
I also agree with Janos – the nationalist flag-waving doesn’t look good from outside.
Veteran Military Wife at Life Lessons of a Military Wife says on May 11th, 2008 at 9:59 am
I can’t stand to “destroy” a book..just photocopy the pages you will need. Also separate your money..have your partner carry some too…don’t carry it all with you. Hide some in your sock, bra or waistband in addition to that…not all in your wallet…I keep most of my money “under wraps” so to speak. Call your credit card company ahead of time and let them know you will be out of the country. I’ve seen people’s credit cards get denied..and then they wondered why…credit card fraud departments can be extra vigilant these days.
Take a photo of what is in your suitcase…if it gets lost on the airline, they always want to know what’s in there..it may help with your claim too (and don’t put valuables in there..but you already know that).
Being in the military, we do a lot of traveling…I’ve got some tips on my blog as well. Keep up the great posts!
Lisa says on May 11th, 2008 at 7:47 pm
It would be a good idea to program the number of your country’s embassy in that country in your cell phone. Also write this down separately, along with its address and stash in a safe place. Emergency contact information (kept separate from your money) might be useful as well, especially if you are incapacitated.
Jonathan Schmid says on May 11th, 2008 at 10:28 pm
Personally, I didn’t find the Canadian flag as that big of an issue. The people who would even concern themselves as to what a culture would treat them as Americans probably aren’t the Americans that earned the bad reputation. I’ve also seen in a few phrase books a translation for “I’m not American, I’m Canadian.” So the practice is fairly common.
The real pity is that one little symbol can change the way you’re treated based entirely off of a stereotype. People should be treated on the basis of their actions, not the flag they wear.
By the way, I totally agree with your aside on “nations”. Are people who live in Detroit that different from those in Windsor? What matters is not what government you happen to be born under, but what you believe and how you act.
Nick says on May 12th, 2008 at 1:46 am
As well as keeping photocopies of passports, credit cards, drivers license etc, I scan them and e-mail them to myself. That way if I do lose them and perhaps also the photocopies, I can just log into my e-mail and print out the lost item!
James says on May 12th, 2008 at 3:40 am
Some pretty obvious and US-centric advice here…
The most glaring issue is to use a Debit card…. sounds okay until someone spoofs your card and empties your account. Credit cards are much safer since the thieves are essentially stealing the banks money, not yours.
As for “Walk like a Canadian”… grow a spine and be an ambassador for your own country instead of trying to co-op another nations identity.
Jim
Paul Freeman says on May 12th, 2008 at 6:14 am
I’ve been toying with the idea of taking Moo cards with me to give to people when I go traveling, but I’m not sure if it would come over to cheesy or a bit to over organized for a supposedly footloose and fancy free traveler!
But personally I think it’s a great idea, and it’s good to see it suggested else where as well as I am very curious as to how well received the idea would be.
Louise says on May 12th, 2008 at 10:27 am
Along with the Disposable Underwear, another tip is a Disposable Login – a one time login when you are visiting public terminals to protect yourself from keyloggers.
I work for Passpack which is an online password manager – traveling shouldn’t compromise safety…
And in regard to bonus tip #10 about tagging onto a tour group – it most always gets the tour operators upset as well as the people who actually paid money for that tour – I know from experience unfortunately!
The best thing to do is look for free tours before you go – which you can often find beforehand.
Happy Traveling!
Louise
Chris K says on May 12th, 2008 at 10:46 am
I agree with taking public transport. People will often help if they see you’re making the effort to fit in. Once, in Puerto Rico, I was waiting for the bus outside a shopping center and a nice woman asked if I was going to Condado ( think one of the big touristy areas). I said yes, and she pointed me to the *correct* bus!
That and not saying “no” to anything. Want to go out to dinner? sure. Check out some other area of town with a nice person you met on a tour group? Why not, as long as you feel safe? If you’re on a business trip – want to tag along to a function? Heck yeah! Being open to doing things is the best thing I’ve done.
pocketcultures says on May 12th, 2008 at 12:07 pm
Another perspective on the Canadian flag discussion: I agree that it’s how you act that matters. So why not go with your own flag/nationality and use it as an opportunity to change someones perception of your country?
For business trips I try to read something about meeting etiquette in the country I’m going to – knowing things like whether it’s polite to accept a drink or not, and whether to spend time on ’small talk’ or get straight to the point can help things to go more smoothly.
Fabio Brito - PsychoPenguin says on May 12th, 2008 at 12:24 pm
Nice tips, specially about the underwear one. :)
If you plan to come to Brazil, the #9 is almost useless. Most of cities have a poor public transport system. Just São Paulo and Curitiba have good ones, but São Paulo´s is too crowded.
Sorry any misunderstood, my english is not so good. :)
Helen says on May 12th, 2008 at 1:49 pm
Re the ATM card—be careful in a country like Japan. It’s quite rare to find 24 hour bank machines. Some convenience stores may have them, but don’t count on it. Also, bank machines tend to go down for major national holidays. People get holidays, why not machines!
The post office cash machines may be the best bet for travellers as they’re in English & Japanese and take foreign cards, but they’re not 24 hours either. (At least not in my small town)
leviathani says on May 14th, 2008 at 11:07 am
The worst thing when traveling is hurrying too much. Don’t try to see *every* sight. Try to focus on some things you absolutely want to see and use the remaining time to get a feeling of the culture and lifestyle of the foreign country. It should be a vacation, not a contest. Take regular breaks, so your jorney doesn’t wear you out. Sit down in a café or a small restaurant and eat a local speciality.
The ten phrases are a nice tip as well, but maybe you could extend these phrases by words for stuff you might want to buy. It is a sign that you try to connect to the place you are visiting, even though it is perfect. And don’t forget to smile when you say “thank you”.
And one last thing regarding the Canadian trick: Even though the US have a pretty bad image at least here in Europe, people will appreciate that you come to visit their country. If you act polite and interested in your host’s culture, people will forget their resentments quite easily.
Jake says on July 7th, 2008 at 12:04 pm
#10 – Walk, walk, walk.
I went over there a thin dude, but I came back after a week (and after walking between 5 to 7 miles a day in Amsterdam and Belgium) and had lost quite a bit of weight! I was surprised that it offset all of the delicious food and beer, but my girlfriend commented the night I came back that I had lost some weight. It’s a good opportunity to be healthy for a few days!
Jake
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