3 Easy Ways to Avoid Being Typecast as a Tourist

The image of the “tourist” is practically universal and it’s probably one of the most unflattering images around. Bold and brash, known for their ridiculous outfits and demands, no one really wants to be typecast as a tourist. However, if you are traveling, it is all too easy to get thrown into this mold. If you want to break free of this and be known as a global traveler, there are three main problem areas that you will want to avoid. By targeting these now, before you set out, you’ll be able to blend in with the locals, and you can avoid being lumped in with the dreaded tourists.

1. Start learning the local language now.

We can’t stress this enough! By far, this is the best way to separate yourself from the common tourist. Most people will either not bother with the language at all, demanding that the locals learn to speak English (often when they don’t have a complete grasp of it either) or they stick with the most common phrases you can find in tourist handbooks, such as “where is the nearest bathroom.”

By breaking free of this language trap, you can instantly be viewed as a traveler, or as someone that really cares about the culture where you will be staying. Learning a new language does not have to be difficult and there are many special accelerated programs that can help you make a lot of progress in very little time. You don’t have to be perfect, the locals will just appreciate the efforts you’ve made.

2. Stay away from tourist zones.

You can always tell where a tourist site is in any country, but the sheer amount of people flocking there. The tourists always stick out with their cameras, their loud voices and their clothing choices. You may as well wear a sign that says “I’m a tourist” when you get into these crowds. While no one wants to miss out on seeing the Lido for example, you should still try to visit other important sites in a town, where tourists generally don’t go.

3. Learn the art of ingratiation.

The way that normal tourists behave is usually the antithesis of ingratiation. They make demands, they push people around and they have a sense of entitlement that would rival the world’s most famous royals. Learning to be ingratiating, polite and even meek has its benefits when you are traveling.

That doesn’t mean that you have to become a doormat, but it does pay to take the time to work on your social skills. Read about a culture before you arrive and learn their customs. The best two words you can ever say to anyone while you are traveling are “thank” and “you.” Politeness is a universal thing and even if you are in the bush country of Africa, people will appreciate it if you are polite and kind. It means a little extra work, especially if you’re naturally a pushy person, but it is worth the effort.

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cameras, clothing choices, common phrases, crowds, global traveler, grasp, images, lido, little time, locals, loud voices, mold, new language, problem areas, tourist zones, tourists

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Learn the Language, Localyte, Look Like Locals, Tourist Trap

Posted by Localyte.com Team on November 13, 2008