In Southeast Asia, bargaining (or asking for a discount) is part of everyday life. It’s commonplace to bargain at markets, hotels, souvenir shops and for transportation. The advent of modern shopping malls in Southeast Asian cities has dampened the practice of bargaining somewhat (though you can always ask for a discount or freebies if you’ve [...]
Travel etiquette: group travel
Group travel Travelling in a group, despite its limitations, can be a fun experience. However, sometimes the behaviour or attitude of just one person can spoil the experience for the entire group. On my first trip to Cuba about fifteen years ago, I travelled in a group for ten days. The group was composed of [...]
Travel etiquette: please cover up
Please cover up There are many countries around the world where clothing that reveals too much is simply not appreciated. I’ve often seen tourists dressed in nothing more than skimpy swimwear in restaurants, even in planes. I was in Zanzibar once and there were many signs around requesting beach-goers to refrain from wearing swimwear that [...]
Travel etiquette: local customs & laws
Acquaint yourself with the local customs and laws of your destination Before you leave, it’s worthwhile to research the local customs of the country you’re visiting. Each culture has its own customs and laws, some of which would seem downright quirky, and being oblivious to these might get you into trouble, and may even result [...]
Travel etiquette: learn ‘Thank you’ in the local language
I read an article on MSNBC recently about types of tourists who are “killing” tourism. Some of the examples were all too familiar: like the piling of plates at the buffet spread. No, I’m not guilty! Anyway, inspired by that article, I’ve decided to start a new series on travel etiquette. This series will feature [...]
About Keith Jenkins
I'm Keith Jenkins. In July 2008, I left my ten-year banking career to travel around the world. I've not looked back since.
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