July 29, 2024
News
When we think of travel, it often evokes feelings of fun, excitement, and the prospect of discovering new places. However, travel encompasses much more, and it is crucial to approach it in a way that respects and embraces other cultures. We have prepared nine valuable tips for travellers to make sure you always travel with respect to locals and their traditions.
1. Leave stereotypes behind
When travelling, leave stereotypes at home. Be ready to learn from the locals, talk with them and be open to new experiences. Always do your research before going to a country to find out more about your travel destination. You can for example read a book or articles written by a local author to understand the country in more depth. Check social media channels of local institutions such as museums, libraries or galleries, but also of locals - writers, artists, etc. - for further interesting insight into your destination’s culture.
2. Ask before taking photos
Always seek for permissions before taking photos. If you are not allowed to take pictures, respect other people’s privacy. Always ask for permission if you want publish people’s photos on social media. Never capture pictures of naked children (or naked adults) or photos of children without adults in general, especially if you do not have permission of their parent or responsible person.
3. Avoid glamorising poverty
While traveling, do your best to avoid glamorising poverty. This means that you should not share photos of naked children playing in poor areas with descriptions of their seemingly easy lives. Avoid taking pictures of people in poor areas in general, especially if you were to comment on their “charming atmosphere”, as these statements can minimise the difficulties and life experiences of the locals. Remember that people are not a tourist attraction. And that poverty is not a choice. Living in poverty is not a “simple life”, but a reality that should be eradicated, not celebrated.
What we post online contributes to how other people perceive a country. It is essential not to paint a picture that would reduce entire country to a stereotype.
4. Respect local customs and religious traditions
Respect the religious traditions of the country and be mindful of your choice of clothing. Make sure to dress appropriately and follow any required dress code in the countries you visit. Similarly, be aware of public alcohol consumption regulations and refrain from drinking alcohol in public where it is not allowed. Always research how to dress and behave in the country before you travel, as customs may differ significantly from culture to culture. Keep comments on local customs to yourself. Remember that greetings vary in different parts of the world. In some regions, even a handshake between opposite genders is considered inappropriate or not allowed.
Even the smallest things can cause a problem just because of a misunderstanding or lack of knowledge. Our colleague shares a tip from her recent visit to Iraq.
“If you go to a restaurant with local people in Iraq, you should always expect them to pay, if you insist to pay they will get offended,” says Lenka Pipková, manager of foreign communication at Caritas Czech Republic about respecting local customs in Iraq.
Before you set off on your journey, it is important to learn more about tables manners and restaurant etiquette in your destination to avoid any unnecessary surprises. “The traditional dishes in Zambia are eaten with hands. So if you’re invited to dinner with locals in Zambia, you should be prepared to eat with your hands as well. The food should be eaten with the right hand, and hands should always be washed before the meal,” says Irena Menšíková, editor at Caritas Czech Republic, about table manners in Zambia that she came across on her trip to the country.
5. Engage with local culture
When you travel, it is easy to isolate yourself by only meeting other tourists. Try to get to know the country as much as you can. Walk or use public transportation, meet local people, and engage with their culture. Locals can also show you beautiful spots to get the feeling of that country. Eat traditional dishes and visit local farms or farmers to see where your tasty food comes from.
Our colleague Lucie Jašová has a tip from her recent trip to Moldova. If you are travelling to this country, you should be prepared to try anything locals offer you to eat or drink. “People, especially elderly, almost take it as an insult if you say you don’t want tea or that you don’t want to try their compote,” says Lucie Jašová, communication officer at Caritas Czech Republic.
6. Follow the rules
Before you set out on your journey, always research regulations of the country you are visiting. The same rules do not apply everywhere. Make sure not to break the law if you want a smooth and trouble-free trip. As mentioned above, refrain from drinking alcohol in public where it is not allowed. For example in Poland, you can get fined if you are caught drinking alcohol in public places. There are many rules in different countries that might surprise you if you don’t learn about them before your trip.
“In Iraq, you can’t stay in a hotel with somebody that you’re not married to, or you’ll need a certificate to prove that you are married,” says Lenka Pipková from Caritas Czech Republic, reminding us that rules vary from country to country.
7. Shop local
Show support for local artists and small business owners by purchasing homemade souvenirs, recognising the value they hold for those who made them. Steer clear of mass-produced souvenirs and avoid buying items that damage the environment or are not culturally sensitive.
8. Keep politics away
Ask yourself if you fully understand the historical background, culture and traditions of the country you are going to and see if you behave accordingly. Keep politics away. Ask the locals what they think, and do not assume you know more about their history than they do.
9. Be eco-friendly
Be eco-friendly and travel with respect not only to the local people but also to the environment. Always be responsible and keep the places you visit clean, and avoid single-use plastics. While it may seem insignificant in some countries, many other countries prioritise environmental conservation and have recycling systems in place. If you encounter a country with such a system, make sure to return the bottles you bought for recycling and always divide waste accordingly.
How to support local people on your travels with Caritas Czech Republic
When you travel, you may want to support local people, especially in poorer regions, so that they can have a chance for a better future. The best way to support them is through reputable organisations that offer constructive approach to helping people in need.
Caritas Czech Republic helps people in several countries around the world to get back on their feet. We support people who have lost their homes, jobs or farms due to protracted conflicts or natural disasters. We help them start their own small businesses, rebuild their farms and be able to provide for themselves and their families. We help refugees and displaced people secure safe shelter and a life in dignity. One of the most important ways to achieve independence and self-sufficiency is through education. Caritas Czech Republic offers scholarships for refugees so that they can study at universities and find jobs.
