I came across this useful article which must be shared, especially for those who are intending to make a holiday trip or vacation overseas and hope it will be of great help to all........
When you travel to a foreign land, it's good to do a little research on the local customs to avoid making a misunderstood gesture or saying something to offend the local sensibilities. Here are tips to help you make the best of your trip.
When you travel to a foreign land, it's good to do a little research on the local customs to avoid making a misunderstood gesture or saying something to offend the local sensibilities. Here are tips to help you make the best of your trip.
Get the preview of the culture
What is proper in Malaysia, may not be so in other countries. Try to get as much information as possible before your visit. For instance, here it's common for us to show the "OK" sign (where you make a circle with your thumb and index finger, and the remaining fingers are pointed straight up). But apparently, that hand signal is considered rude and offensive in Brazil.
Respect all local customs and cultural beliefs
You're a visitor, not a judge. Although some local beliefs might sound ridiculous, never criticise them in front of the locals. Instead, make an effort to learn as much of their culture as possible.
Know the gross facts
Did you know that in Kalimantan and Sulawesi, Indonesia, grilled or deep-fried bats are considered a treat? Plus, some Balinese are known to eat deep-fried dragonflies as appetisers while Mexicans sell Tequila with worms! Be well-informed of these unique delicacies before you make the wrong decision at the food stalls.
Learn the language
You're not expected to converse fluently in their language but try to learn common words or phrases. The locals will appreciate you making the effort to speak their language, even if it's just to say "Aloha kakahiaka" ("Good Morning" in Hawaiian).
Don't be afraid to ask questions
Ask as many questions as you want, in order to learn more about their culture. The more you ask during the trip, the more you gain in the end.
What is proper in Malaysia, may not be so in other countries. Try to get as much information as possible before your visit. For instance, here it's common for us to show the "OK" sign (where you make a circle with your thumb and index finger, and the remaining fingers are pointed straight up). But apparently, that hand signal is considered rude and offensive in Brazil.
Respect all local customs and cultural beliefs
You're a visitor, not a judge. Although some local beliefs might sound ridiculous, never criticise them in front of the locals. Instead, make an effort to learn as much of their culture as possible.
Know the gross facts
Did you know that in Kalimantan and Sulawesi, Indonesia, grilled or deep-fried bats are considered a treat? Plus, some Balinese are known to eat deep-fried dragonflies as appetisers while Mexicans sell Tequila with worms! Be well-informed of these unique delicacies before you make the wrong decision at the food stalls.
Learn the language
You're not expected to converse fluently in their language but try to learn common words or phrases. The locals will appreciate you making the effort to speak their language, even if it's just to say "Aloha kakahiaka" ("Good Morning" in Hawaiian).
Don't be afraid to ask questions
Ask as many questions as you want, in order to learn more about their culture. The more you ask during the trip, the more you gain in the end.
"Vacation used to be a luxury, however, in today's world, it has become a necessity"
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