With the rise of budget airlines, you can now go anywhere in the world for a reasonable price. Unfortunately, despite the many positives, easy access to global travel has created its own problems. Good intentions aside, there has been a “desensitisation”, which has encouraged travellers to take their own culture with them on holiday. In case you’re worried about slipping into the “Brit abroad” mould, here are a few handy tips for how to avoid annoying your host country:

Respect local cultures

This applies everywhere, even if you’re on a lad’s break to Kavos and half the strip seems to be composed of British accents. Familiarise yourself with the local customs and don’t do anything that carries a risk of offending. If you’re visiting a site which you know has important religious or cultural importance, be especially careful. For example, you might want to wear shorts and a t-shirt but doing so could prove to be highly offensive. Check first and do your research before you arrive so you don’t offend anyone. The FCO website is good for information on specific countries.

Don’t photograph people without their permission

This may seem crazy in a world where images rule, but people can be very wary of photography and where the picture might end up. Nobody wants a camera shoved in front of them without permission. Be aware that some people might also ask you for money in exchange for a photograph. This is more often the case in very touristy areas; for example, Cusco in Peru where women in traditional dress walk the streets and only ask for money after the photo has been taken. The bottom line on this one is that you should be respectful and ask permission before taking a photo of anyone.

Be a thoughtful volunteer

If you’re on a volunteering expedition, choose where and what you do very carefully. For example, you’re not going to be able to build a wall when all the experience you have is year 9 Design and Technology, so consider your qualifications when thinking about a project. If you’re going for the cultural exchange side of it, you’re probably better off doing a home-stay as part of an eco-tourism programme which is going to provide jobs and revenue. Familiarise yourself with those organisations that actually give something back to local communities and have a think about how useful you’re actually going to be. Ensure that you’re being safe in your choices; check out the FCO’s list of things to ask before you go to be sure you’ve got everything covered.

Don’t assume everyone speaks English

Many Brits fall victim to this one. Just because the waiter’s English isn’t as good as yours - it’s not his mother tongue after all - don’t speak to him in a ridiculous accent and don’t assume that everyone will understand or speak English. Try learning and using a few of the local basic words and phrases. This will get you a lot of respect and you might then find that your hosts will in return attempt to use a bit of basic English. Together, you’ll get by.

Accept that this is a different country

Don’t assume things will happen the same way as they do in the UK. You won’t win any favours by having a tantrum about the public transport or how long you’re waiting to be served a coffee. Things might just run at a different pace - get used to it. Again, make a point about doing research before you go - the FCO has extensive information on any country you might want to visit, so check it out before you travel. Chances are, everything is going to be delayed and a lot will go wrong, but this is part of the fun of travelling. Don’t travel with a rigid timetable because it’ll just frustrate you and the others around you. You’re not going to get anywhere if you start having an argument with your driver because he’s decided to stop for a coconut bun and a cuppa - have one yourself instead. Take a deep breath and enjoy the experience as part of the culture of the country you’re travelling in.

If you’re really in trouble, there are plenty of ways to seek help abroad and the British consul will be ready to help you if things go wrong.

Title Image Credit: Moyan Brenn (Image Cropped)