Cultural features
6 questions
How not to offend locals with your behavior?
General rules: learn basic greetings in the local language, dress appropriately (temples, mosques — shoulders/knees covered), ask before taking photos of people, remove shoes where required. Asia: do not touch the head, do not point with feet. Muslim countries: the left hand is unclean. Japan: do not blow your nose in public, do not eat on the go. Study in advance!
How to find authentic places and not tourist traps?
•Stay away from main attractions by 2-3 blocks.
•Eat where locals do (look at the visitors).
•Ask locals (hotel staff, taxi drivers — specifically: 'Where do YOU eat?').
•Apps: Yelp, TripAdvisor (filter by low prices), local blogs.
•Couchsurfing hangouts.
•Free walking tours by locals.
•Markets, not shopping malls.
Cultural features: what gestures and topics of conversation are better to avoid?
Start with a plan on the topic of "Cultural features": dates, budget, priorities (what is mandatory, what is optional). Then book critical items in advance.
Cultural features: what is important to know about dress code and religion?
Practice for "Cultural features": make a list of documents and deadlines (visa, insurance, reservation, vaccinations). This prevents 90% of problems.
Cultural features: how to behave at guests' homes and in public places?
Answer on "Cultural features": use the 70/30 rule — fix 70% of the route, leave 30% for spontaneity and relaxation.
Cultural features: how to respectfully photograph people and places?
For "Cultural features": it’s helpful to have 2–3 alternatives (flights/hotels/route) in case of failures. A Plan B saves nerves.