Traveling to other countries can be fascinating and can broaden your mind and your horizons in ways that nothing else in the world can. Getting to know other cultures and people can be the most amazing part of traveling outside your own country. One part of your planning process should always be researching the country or countries you will be visiting to find out their local customs, etiquette and laws.
Sometimes your actions in other countries may just result in strange looks. Sometimes it may actually offend other people. Or worse yet, your actions could get you fined or even arrested.
Here are some things you need to know when traveling to keep you safe and out of hot water.
The Vatican (and other Catholic Cathedrals)
Cover your shoulders and your knees when at the Vatican. Tank tops, shorts and short skirts are not allowed inside the Vatican. Bring a shawl or sweater to cover bare shoulders and make sure any skirts are knee length or below. Many other Catholic cathedrals in Europe embrace this same policy as well.
United Arab Emirates
Public displays of affection are prohibited in the UAE. Kissing or hand holding in public can get you arrested, so be careful showing any sort of affection in public. You’ll also want to keep the tops of your arms and legs covered in the UAE.
Having sex before marriage in the UAE is illegal. Even if you’re in the privacy of your hotel room, you could still be taking a chance.
Alcohol is prohibited. Be very mindful that even if flight attendants offer you alcohol on your flight to the UAE, and you are in international airspace, you can still be arrested once the plane lands. Just refrain from drinking.
Greece and Italy
Do not wear high heels at the monuments in Greece. Yes, your stilettos may be super cute but they can also damage the archaeological sites in Greece and in Italy. You should opt for a comfortable pair of flats or sneakers. Do not eat or drink near any historical monuments. This is also true for all ancient monuments in Italy. Eating on public streets in the historic district of Florence during the hours of noon to 3pm or 6pm to 10pm is now illegal and tourists can be fined.
Do not feed the pigeons in Venice. The city passed a law in 2008 which bans feeding them and violators can be fined.
India
Don’t eat with your left hand in India. The left hand is reserved for bathroom activities and therefore considered unclean. If you eat with your left hand, you may receive some strange looks. This is also offensive in the Middle East and in African countries.
Australia
Swearing in public is illegal Australia. You can get fined for your potty mouth here.
Lebanon
Do not refuse food in Lebanon. It is considered extremely rude to refuse anything, especially food in this country.
Singapore
Chewing gum is illegal in Singapore. If you must chew something, opt for a mint. Gambling is also illegal.
Sri Lanka
In Sri Lanka, it is illegal to have visible tattoos of Buddha. If you have one, make sure that you keep it hidden with clothing if possible.
Japan
In Japan, it is proper etiquette to bow in greeting, especially when you’re in a business meeting. If you forget this courtesy, you could lose the business deal.
Caribbean Islands and Africa
Don’t wear camouflage clothing in Barbados. You’ll often hear reminders from cruise ship personnel regarding wearing any type of camouflage clothing on the island. Camouflage is also illegal in Antigua, Grenada, St. Lucia, and Jamaica as well as African countries such as Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Etiquette in Multiple Countries
Tipping is offensive in Japan and also some European countries. In these countries, wait staff are paid a living wage and do not rely on tips to make up the difference. In Europe, if you still want to leave a tip, 10% should be the maximum amount.
Blowing your nose at the table is considered poor etiquette in China and Japan. It is offensive to blow your nose in public in Japan and France. So, if you must blow your nose, try to find a restroom to go into.
Not taking your shoes off inside someone’s house is considered ill mannered in Germany, China and Thailand. Shoes are considered dirty and should be removed and left by the front door when entering a private residence.
There are many hand gestures that are considered impolite. Pointing is considered disrespectful in a lot of countries, but there are other gestures you should be mindful of. A thumbs up is considered rude in Australia and the Middle East. The “come here” gesture in the Philippines is vulgar. The “okay “sign is bad mannered in Greece, Spain, and Brazil and the outward “peace sign” could land you in trouble in the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. You should also refrain from crossing your fingers in Vietnam or crossing your arms in Finland.
Illegal in Multiple Countries
Don’t flush the toilet after 10pm in Switzerland. You may want to make sure that you don’t drink a lot of liquid right before going to sleep to avoid a midnight bathroom run. Noise curfews are in place from 10 pm to 6 am. Making any kind of noise (mowing lawns, doing laundry, sawing, hammering, etc.) are forbidden on Sundays in Germany and Switzerland. Sundays are meant for being with your family and for relaxing. Most stores and businesses will also be closed on Sundays.
Although it should go without saying, you should not sign or carve your name on any ancient monuments or landmarks. Tourists were arrested after carving their name on the Roman Colosseum a few years ago. Ancient buildings are not your high school yearbook, so keep your pen in your bag.
Certain medications are prohibited in foreign countries. In Japan, pseudo-ephedrine and codeine are illegal. Diazepam and codeine are forbidden in Greece and the UAE. Sleeping pills and anti-anxiety medications require a license in Singapore and Costa Rica. Doctors notes are required to bring in personal medications in China. If you’re bringing medication, bring only enough mediation to last the trip and make sure you have a doctor’s note.
Final Thoughts
You should always learn a few phrases in the local language before you travel. Even if you’re horrible at speaking it, the locals will appreciate that you at least made the effort. A little effort goes a long way! It’s incredible how far a “hello” in the local language will get you. Many people in other countries do have a basic knowledge of English, but it is rude to expect them to speak your language without attempting to speak theirs.
One of the best things about exploring this world is learning about different cultures. It’s important to learn about the culture prior to traveling. If you want to journey to foreign places, remember to be respectful of the people in those countries. It can make all the difference in your travel experience!
