Nothing beats the bliss of a holiday—sun-kissed beaches, stunning seas, and mouthwatering cuisine. But amid the excitement, it's easy to unintentionally overlook local customs. As seasoned travelers with years of global experience, we've compiled this trusted guide to holiday etiquette: key do's and don'ts for international trips.
The Do's
- Ask permission before photographing locals. Snapping without consent can come across as rude in many cultures.
- Be mindful of gestures. Hand signals like the OK sign are offensive in some places.
- Tip appropriately. Research local customs—tipping can insult in certain countries.
- Learn basic local phrases. Mastering 'please' and 'thank you' shows respect and opens doors.
- Sample local cuisine. Embracing dishes beyond your comfort zone honors the culture.
- Keep music considerate. Enjoy your playlist, but don't blast it from your hotel room.
- Dress respectfully. Skip swimsuits at temples or restaurants.
- Embrace haggling where customary. It's part of the culture—approach it politely to support locals.
The Don'ts
- Recline your airplane seat fully or hog armrests. Share space fairly on all transport.
- Push ahead at boarding gates. Planes depart on schedule regardless.
- Block moving walkways. Stand aside with your luggage for those in a rush.
- Overdo all-you-can-eat buffets. Moderation avoids waste and annoyance.
- Reserve sun loungers with towels pre-breakfast, then vanish until afternoon.
- Fume over spotty Wi-Fi or signal. Vacation means disconnecting—social posts can wait.
- Arrive late to excursions. It cuts into everyone's time and risks missing out.
- Be unprepared at checkpoints. Have your passport ready to avoid holding up lines.
