How to Avoid Looking Like a Tourist

When you hear the word tourist what do you think of? Tacky clothing, fanny packs, loud, overbearing and maybe even a little annoying. There are several negative connotations that are attached to being a tourist and sometimes it can make you feel like you are an outsider when you are visiting another country. But, if you give it a try there are some simple tips that you can follow to help blend in to the crowd. Blending in while traveling can be beneficial for several reasons including having a more immersive and engaging experience; it will also help protect you from pickpockets and other criminal schemes. 

Rethink some of your packing choices. Clothing is one of the first things that will alert people to your tourist status. Every country has their own idea of what is appropriate and normal attire. So do a little bit of research ahead of time so you won't stick out like a sore thumb. For example, in Paraguay and a lot of South American countries even though its hot, it is not normal for people, especially women to wear shorts.

Put the map away. There is nothing that will point you out to potential thieves more then walking around with a giant map. Honestly, in this day and age there is no excuse. I guarantee that almost all of you have smart phones now, so use them, Google Maps is awesome and works everywhere or just take pictures of maps before you leave the hotel. If you get really lost you have two great alternative options. First, ask someone! It is a great way to meet locals. Or second option, just go with it! Sometimes when you are lost you find the most interesting places.

Not everyone speaks English and just speaking louder at them won't change that, so put in some effort and try and learn some key phrases in the local language. There is no need to be fluent but the locals will definitely appreciate the effort so don't be to worried if it doesn't come out perfectly.

Look into local customs before you go. Customs and etiquette are different in every country and if you do some research you can learn about the ones that tourists encounter most often. Just because you aren't from there doesn't mean that they don't apply to you. In many Middle Eastern and African countries you will get weird looks if you eat with your left hand and in Paraguay, Brazil and some other countries the "rock on" hand gesture means something completely different. It can be a way of insinuating that someone's significant other is cheating on them. Tipping is also different in every country and a vital thing to know before you arrive, in some countries it can be in insult if you do and insult if you don't.

Tone it down. This is in reference to a couple things. I know when you are traveling getting the best shot with your camera can be super important but try not to be annoying and get in people's way doing it. Also, try and not live up to the stereotype of the loud American.

Do as the locals do. If all of these other tips fail (which they shouldn't) just follow the example set by the people who live there!

What are your tips for blending in while traveling?