Your heart is beating faster than usual. Butterflies are fluttering around your stomach. You can barely contain your excitement.
No, you are not in love (well, maybe, but that is your thing).
You have decided to embark on yet another great adventure. The time to depart is coming close and you can only think about the places you are going to discover, the tasty morsels available on local markets and the quirky characters you may bump into.
Hold on your thoughts. Let’s analyze this for a moment.
Do you want to have a wonderful time? Yes. Are things going to run smoothly like a fine tuned watch? Not necessarily.
Even with the realization that things may derail at a given moment, I still believe any trip can be meaningful, rich and fun. It all depends on our attitude.
Here are some thoughts on how to approach travel with the correct attitude.
Table of Contents
Do not take things personally
During my travels, I have had many negative experiences. I have been taken advantage of, scammed and mistreated by representatives of the service industry. One time, things got physical when a local hit me on the face (it was a weird confusion).
I have been able to keep my cool since I realize these situations are not exclusive to my person. I do not start to think the situation happened because I am from x country, speak x language or look a certain way.
The reality is that travelers all over the world, and even locals, are exposed to similar situations. Keep on moving and continue enjoying your trip.
Realize you have options
Yes, I said it in the previous paragraphs. Do not let bad situations affect your mind.
However, you have the option to leave a situation if you think you are not receiving respectful or fair treatment.
You do not have to sweat over the small stuff but you can opt to walk out if you fill unwelcomed or uncomfortable.
Let me give you an example. Things are looking fishy at the place you are staying. At the front desk, you are being asked tons (or improper) questions. Or, something disappears from your room and no action is taken by the people in charge. I had an experience where somebody opened the room’s door in the middle of the night.
When there is a little voice on the back of your head telling you that things do not look right, it may be time to take some action. Why? Because, once again, you want to enjoy your trip and make the most of the resources invested.
I know it is not an easy thing to do but you have to be wise enough to know when to walk away. The ocean is full of fish.
Things are not going to be like home
Guess what? The place of your dreams may be very different from your home town or country. As a matter of fact, those differences attracted you to that place. So, why expect it to be the same version of what you are used to?
Open your mind to the differences. You will be able to embrace some while others may irritate you a bit. That should be fine if you are wearing your fresh and cool pants. Remember, travel can teach us a lot about patience.
Plan according to your tastes
If you are going to Paris, do not visit the Louvre if you detest museums. There are tons of people who visit attractions because they are popular or because that is what other people do. And, you know what happens after the fact? They feel dissatisfied with their trip (and they tell all their friends Paris sucks).
Let me tell you one thing. This is your trip! Do the things that move or touch you. That simple step may help you to see a destination on a different light.
Understand political and economic realities
Learning a little bit about the political, economic and cultural realities of a country, can give you great insight on why people act in a determined way (which may seem so odd to you). Make an effort and try to see the world from their perspective.
It is easy to say people from x country are rude and people from y country are cold. But, the overall tone of a population may be related to horrible events that lasted centuries (wars, totalitarian regimes, famine, etc.)
Get your mind off generalizations
To me, generalizations are dangerous. Sometimes, people repeat things so much that those thoughts get stuck on our minds, even if what people is saying is not true or it is a gross exaggeration.
The same thing applies to travel. You may hear country z is this way. Or, the people in country x are the other way. Then, you happen to be on one of those countries and you cannot loosen up. You see what you want to see even when there is evidence telling you the opposite. Are you getting what I am saying?
When traveling to a new place, prepare your mind to be like an empty sheet of paper. There are no preconceptions in there and you, only you, have the power to annotate your own observations and determine what you like (or do not like).
Follow the rules
This should be a given. If you are told certain things are not allowed (or are illegal) in a place you are visiting, then do not do them.
I have never understood why people have a desire to get in arguments, take a ride to the police station or pass the night on a cell. I do not get it.
And, let me make a parenthesis to clarify that I am not only referring to laws and regulations. You should take into consideration what behavior is socially acceptable. Do you know in some countries things like blowing your nose, kissing in public, showing the sole of your feet or laughing with an open mouth are big nos? A little bit of research can help you a lot.
Respect the historic, cultural and natural heritage
This should be a given.
Please, please respect the places you are visiting. Throwing thrash, touching things you are not supposed to touch or climbing over artifacts can risk sites of great historical value (and things may not go well for you after you destroy something).
In the same way, follow indications on natural parks or preserves. A mindless act can destroy valuable flora or fauna.
Show a genuine interest
Showing interest for people, and their culture, will work wonders for you. Listen, ask questions, compliment, smile and share a bit of you. If all these come from the heart (because people can tell), I can guarantee you will have days to remember for a long time.
Take the lead
Do not wait for others to act; lead the way by being friendly and respectful. Greet strangers, make small conversation, ask for recommendations and give honest answers to questions. You have no idea where your positive and cheerful attitude can take you.
Focus on the good
During a visit to a country I should not mention, I got a bit frustrated since some service representatives showed no interest in answering my questions. I kept bumping into the same roadblock.
On the other hand, in that same country, a lady helped me to find my way when I got lost. Another lady gave us complimentary dessert at her restaurant. A guy we met told us about his experience working as a pastry chef in Mexico City. The list goes on and on.
When I think about that country, I think about the people who were kind to me. I chose to see the soul of the country on the actions of those who decided to be a sunray.
For some reason, we human beings like to focus on the negative. But, what if we flip the coin?
Be grateful for the opportunity (the best attitude!)
See travel as an opportunity, an opportunity to spread your wings and reach unimaginable places. If you have been able to seize that opportunity, be grateful. Not everybody is able to follow your steps.
With respect to attitude I read the following quote the other day, “The attitude you bring to the day is what the day will bring to you. Great attitude, great day.”
We can paraphrase that quote and adapt it to the theme of this post in the following way, “The attitude you bring to a trip is what the trip will bring to you. Great attitude, great trip.”
Let that sit for a moment and determine if any of the recommendations in here can help you to transform your travel experience!
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I want to open up the comment section for discussion. How do you approach travel from an attitude perspective? What other things can improve the travel experience?
Remember to pin if you liked this article!
Lorelle says
Great points here Ruth. 😉
Ruth says
Thanks for stopping by!
Carol says
Excellent post with great tips – pinned and shared.
Ruth says
Thanks Carol! Glad you liked it!
Photo Cache says
Yes, excellent write up. You are on point on the items. May I add NEVER COMPARE one city (attraction, park, etc) to another, because that always brings some discontent – at least in my part. Lesson learned.
Ruth says
I like that addition to the list! We humans like to compare but, like you mentioned, that can be counterproductive. I try to see each place as unique.
KVVS MURTHY says
Thanks for your great tips.Have a nice day.
Ruth says
Thanks for visiting and leaving a comment.
// Heidrun says
I enjoyed this Post again for the Tuesday theme IMAGE-IN-ING.
HEIDRUN
Ruth says
Good to hear that! I am glad to have you here.
image-in-ing: weekly photo linkup says
Great guidelines.
Thank you for sharing them with us at http://image-in-ing.blogspot.com/2017/07/hhhhiiiiiiiisssssssss.html
Ruth says
I am sure many travelers will find these useful.
ladyfi says
Great advice!
Ruth says
Nice! Thanks for stopping by.
Kristy says
Excellent article, I need to read this again the next time I travel.
Ruth says
That sounds good! Keep the post at hand!
Kelly says
Yep, the right attitude is SO important! I especially love the reminder that you always have options (when traveling or at home) so get yourself out of sketchy situations when possible!
Ruth says
Kelly, sometimes we get under certain pressure and do things even when we feel they are not right. I have put myself in some “dangerous” situation. Luckily, nothing happened on those times and I have learned from those situations.
Lolo says
These are all amazing reminders! Somehow people don’t think of these things! I especially like that things are not going to be like they are at home. I know so many people who hate traveling because it’s different than what they know, or they simply refuse to travel to any non-English speaking countries, despite the fact that it’s the global language and people cannnn speak it, if partially broken. That’s not an excuse to travel. #WanderfulWednesday
Ruth says
I think some people travel because it is fashionable or because you can be seen as a person of a higher status if you go places. In reality, there is no deeper purpose behind the trips (and that is so sad). The English thing stresses me. I get questions all the time about how we are going to communicate in the countries we are about to visit. We say we will speak English and people think we are making fun of them. But, in reality people speak English everywhere.
Christine Keane says
Great post Ruth and so on the money! Sometimes I get in a bad mood when I travel and then I’m like “Wait, you’re traveling and on vacation, why are you in a bad mood?” Most of the time I catch myself, but sometimes, it takes someone telling me snap out of it before I do.
Ruth says
Christine, I experience the same situation sometimes. I get in a bad mood because traveling can be tiring. But, I talk myself out of the situation.
Valerie Gasparini says
Great post! I can totally relate to the not taking things personal section. I lived in Madrid for 6 months and I really wanted to improve my Spanish. I would get really disappointed when I would talk to locals in Spanish and they would only respond to me in English (made it so hard to practice). They wouldn’t do this to my friends that blended in a little more, but only me. I learned not to take offense and just enjoy my time 🙂
Ruth says
You attitude is great! Congratulations on taking the things on the light side. I am surprised people didn’t want to practice Spanish with you. I have noticed Spaniards stick to Spanish a lot (they do not feel like speaking another language).
Ashley @ The Wandering Weekenders says
These are all great things to keep in mind when traveling! I love that you mentioned to plan things according to your tastes! Just because it’s a popular thing to do, doesn’t mean that you’re going to love it! After all, it is YOUR trip!
Ruth says
So true Ashley! I know so many people who talk so bad about the places they have visited. When you dig deeper, you find out they went to places they had no interest in.
Al says
A lot of this advice isn’t just useful for travel.
Ruth says
Totally Al! We will be much better if if these principles are practiced in abundance.
Pat says
Good article, Ruth. It saddens me to see vandalism and garbage and bags of dog poop along beautiful trails and nature sites here in Colorado. The National Parks all over the US are also seeing more incidents of vandalism and littering. It shows disrespect by residents and visitors. The same can be true of international travel when one does not take the time to learn about the local culture and customs and show respect for the same.
Ruth says
Pat, I feel so sad every time I witness see thrash or vandalism in beautiful places. I do not understand what pleasure can be derived from destroying places that are protected or of cultural value. It will be nice to have a way to report incidents witnessed by people wh care.
Mary says
Great advice all around. Sometimes we go to places with a prejudgment of how it will be. Your photos are amazing.
Ruth says
That is true! I think we should be open and form our own opinions. It is difficult to learn and absorb when we are stiff with what we have heard or read.
Katherine says
You give some fantastic advice in here. I was a little shocked to read that you were hit in the face though. That’s pretty appalling. But I second your advice on going with your gut. If it doesn’t feel right, it’s better to go elsewhere then stick around. #FarawayFiles
Ruth says
It was a weird incident and it got me by surprised. I was showing a friend something I saw on a store. I was pointing at the item and the attendant thought I was going to touch it and she stopped me by hitting me on the face. I was in disbelief but ended up leaving since my friends hot really upset.
Rachel Heller says
All great advice! Just today I was touring a castle in Romania and a little girl decided to open the drawers of an antique cupboard. So she’s tugging away and her parents are doing nothing! I just told her to stop, and the parents didn’t say anything, but it was just annoying to see. And another tourist leaning on an antique sideboard to take a picture. Pisses me off!
I would add a couple of things to this list. One is that not only will things not be like home, but they also might not be like you imagined they’d be. The other is that, besides being grateful you can travel, it’s important to be aware of the privileges you enjoy: to be able to travel, to have excess money so you can do so (made possible by the education/training you were able to receive), to be able to leave your regular responsibilities behind, to have a passport that allows you to go to so many places, etc. The people cleaning your hotel rooms, etc. don’t have that privilege.
Ruth says
Rachel, thanks for your comment! Agree with your view of travel as a privilege. I think that is why we should cherish and make the most of each travel experience. I was once unemployed for two years and travel was out of the question. I think I enjoy my trips way more after that experience.
Katy says
Thanks for the reminder Ruth. As a generally positive and optimistic person I find it so irritating to hear people moan and complain on their travels. Travelling, especially international travel, is a privilege afforded to so few of the world’s people, so it’s important to remember that in the face of discomfort. Thanks for sharing on #FarawayFiles
Ruth says
So true Katy! I see myself as an ambassador of my country, so, I try to leave a good impression. In the same way, I feel as an ambassador of the country I visited when I return home. I can single it praises or bury it with all sorts of complains.
jill says
Great post Ruth! I always say that the difference between expectations and reality is disappointment. So I try very hard to be realistic when I’m planning my travels – and also to let whoever is travelling with me to be realistic also. Makes for much smoother sailing!
Ruth says
Oh yes! Travels are better when yo travel with a person who is on the same page.
Kathy Marris says
Very wise advice, particularly about letting the small things go and focusing on the bigger things. We had an experience in Rome recently in an Airbnb where someone with a key tried to get into our apartment in the middle of the night. Very scary.
Ruth says
Gosh, then you understand how we felt when out door was opened in the middle of the night. We didn’t know what to do. Things turned out ok and we let it go.
Kat says
Absolutely agree with you on all points, Ruth. I can give you some examples of people making generalisations:
(1) Some people say North Vietnamese people are rude – well, the North experienced much worse during the Vietnam war compared to other parts of the country, as such they seem cold and unapproachable.
(2) A man in Iran asked me to approach his car. For some reason, I was puzzled but walked anyway towards his car. As soon as I came closer to his car, he put his hand in his pants. Immediately, I walked away and needless to say, I was absolutely mad! But my sister calmed me down and said, “in every country, there will be perverts, so don’t take this personally to assume that Iran is a bad country. He’s an a**hole”.
I’m really glad that you wrote this post – a reminder to us all that we must respect other countries’ cultures and traditions, and sometimes a single bad customer experience should not be applied to the entire nation, etc. #FarawayFiles
Ruth says
Kat, I am glad you had your wise sister with you. It would be so heartbreaking to throw an entire trip (or country) because of one person and its actions. I have had bad experiences on certain countries but I will not thrash for respect to the wonderful people of that country
budget jan says
Wise words Ruth and although I agree whole-heartedly with everything you’ve written it is good to be reminded of them.
Ruth says
Great Jan! I know a lot of those practice the things in here but reflecting on them can help us to go the extra mile.
Trippin' Turpins (Kelly) says
Great advice. I really believe that one’s own attitude will definitely impact on the enjoyment one gets from travel. I think it is important to understand the difference of culture, values etc – respect and enjoy the differences! That is why we travel.
Ruth says
Yes, those differences are what make travel so great! I love to engage in conversation with locals when I travel. I learn so much and end up laughing with my new “friends” once we start pointing out the differences.
Carmen Baguio says
I especially like the tip about making the trip your own. I am not a night owl or partier. When I went to Mykonos, I had no desire to go to the popular “party” beaches. Instead, I sought out the quiet beaches with spectacular scenery. I had a much better time than had I pushed myself to do the “popular” thing!
Ruth says
I like your approach! I am not into parties or clubbing but I like dinning and walking around after a meal. I like when there is a lively atmosphere around (but nothing noisy or crazy). I think destinations can offer more than what they are famous for.
Jessica @ Independent Travel Cats says
Some great thoughts and “guidelines” for people to get more from their travels and have a more positive experience. I get really angry at other people’s behavior while traveling (e.g., feeding wildlife junk food, touching artwork in museums, cutting in lines) and it definitely makes for a worse travel experience – I need to work on letting it go but it would be much better if people were more respectful when they travel!
Ruth says
Yes, I can lose it sometimes. Gladly, my husband has more patience on those situations and he calms me down. I wish people were more respectful too!
Allison says
Great tips! I love how you mentioned to look at the country you are visiting as a blank page. You never know what you will find and if you’re impression of a place is already soiled by others’ opinions, you’re going to have a hard time finding anything positive about it.
Ruth says
Right, I think it is all about openness. I have been to places with really strong preconceptions. At one point, I had to change my attitude because I wasn’t enjoying myself at all. After the adjustment, things changed for the positive.
Eric || The Bucket List Project says
Great points Ruth. I am always amazed at people who travel somewhere different and then complain about how its different. You don’t expect a restaurant to operate like your own kitchen so why would you expect a different country?
I think if you leave yourself open to experience everything even once..here is another secret..you don’t have to like it all or any of it, but at least you tried it.
Ruth | Tanama Tales says
Agree you do not have to like it all. There are some places that have been so-so for me. But the question is the following: did you dislike it because it didn’t fit your personality or likes or you dislike it because you approached it in the wrong way?
Anisa says
I agree it is important to realize how lucky we are to travel! The other thing I would say is sometimes you have to think a little differently to find the good in the situation but if you try hard enough I think you can. This was a great read, I pinned for future reference. Thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard.
Ruth | Tanama Tales says
Thanks Anisa! I agree with you. We may see a travel experience like a negative but we may not understand it is a lesson. The more you travel, the better you get at it because you have experienced more things (good or bad).
Sally's Tips 4 Trips (aka Toddlers on Tour) says
Great advice Ruth.
I think flexibility and tolerance is the key to travel
Ruth | Tanama Tales says
Right on! Like the flexibility part. Oh, you really need to be flexible sometimes.
Oana says
Interesting article, I believe that every traveler should have the right attitude while travelling. Every country will be different and we need to change the mindset before going – for example I always wanted to go to India but I never felt prepared.
A positive attitude can make huge changes in our travel life.
Ruth | Tanama Tales says
Oana, thanks for stopping by. Agree with you. The correct attitude will make or break a trip. I know some places are though, so, I believe more research is needed (talk to other who have been there or live there).
Michelle | michwanderlust says
Great tips, Ruth, and like someone above said, aren’t just for travel alone. After all, life itself is one big journey right?
I think I’d have completely freaked out if someone opened my hotel door in the middle of the night. What did you do?? I use a door-stopper just to give myself a few extra seconds to react if something like this does happen – but thankfully it hasn’t (so far, touch wood).
Ruth | Tanama Tales says
I actually didn’t notice it. My husband saw the door opening and he thought I was going out for some reason. But then, he saw me on the bed next to him. I went to the restroom an hour after that and he told me what happened. He was a bit scared and didn’t know what to do. We placed a chair and luggage against the door just in case. It was scary because you don’t know if somebody is trying to rob you or if hotel employees are involved. We went back to sleep and decided to report the situation to the front desk inn the morning. The guy in there admitted he opened the door by accident because he thought nobody was staying on the room and he was showing around a customer who arrived late. We didn’t like the situation and left, reported it to the booking platform and left a review alerting others.
The Travelling Sociologist says
I am “grateful for the opportunity” – to read your article! Thank you for the wise words on embracing life outside of your comfort zone by calibrating your attitude. Thoughtful and precious words.
Ruth | Tanama Tales says
Oh, thanks a lot! Your comment is very encouraging!
Anda says
Excellent post, Ruth! I can’t agree more with all your points. As someone who travels a lot, most of these things come naturally to me, but I realize that it takes time to get your mind straight when you travel. I especially agree with following the rules and especially showing interest. I recently came back from a trip where I asked my guide a ton of questions. I didn’t expect her to like me too much for that, especially since some of my questions were quite challenging. To my surprise, at the end of the tour she came to me and told me how pleased she was to finally find someone who seemed really interested in her tour.
Ruth | Tanama Tales says
I have experienced the same. I think tour guides get a little bit tired of people being not interested in what they have to say about a place (even from people who pay for them to explain). I believe the job is more rewarding and fun when the conversation if two way. Plus, you learn way more like that.
Gabriela@IamFoodieTraveler says
OMG, I totally agree with everything you said 100%! This is one of the best readings for a while!
Ruth | Tanama Tales says
Thanks so much Gabriela! So awesome you liked it!
Lyn @ A Hole in my Shoe says
I totally agree with this. Why can’t people understand their rudeness ruins the experience for everyone. I especially dislike it when people are extremely rude to the staff in hotels, restaurants, guides, etc. These people generally do a wonderful job and put up with a lot from some people. The other thing is when people expect third world countries to ‘lift their game and make it more western’ or ‘get with the times’. Sheesh, that is why we travel, to see how other people live, adapt, etc. And don’t get me started on people not knowing how to queue!
Ruth | Tanama Tales says
Right, I didn’t touched on that topic but it is sad when travelers show their arrogance to people on the service industry. I have see some pretty bad displays. But, they can be some of the most helpful and wonderful people you meet during a trip.
Victoria Ward says
These were really great points that people really need to keep in mind when being in another country. I live in another country and you wouldn’t believe the amount of things people that are expats complain about simply because they aren’t following the things you said here. One of my favorite quotes goes something like remember when you are traveling that the country is there not to make you comfortable but to make their people comfortable. And I think people forget that when they go to more touristy places.
Ruth | Tanama Tales says
Yes, I have heard that quote too and it totally makes sense. I do not understand expats complaining. After all, they decided to move.
Rajlakshmi says
I love your attitude… yes we need to brush past the bad incidents and look forward to new and beautiful experience. Excellent points. I totally agree that one should respect the local culture and local laws. A little research before the trip is always helpful. Glad to come across your blog.
Ruth | Tanama Tales says
Thanks! I am glad you like my attitude! Respecting the culture and laws is essential.
Jenn | By Land and Sea says
So many good points here! Travel isn’t always glamorous, but your attitude definitely impacts your experience!
Ruth | Tanama Tales says
You could have not said better. Social media makes us believe travel is all champagne and roses. But, it barely shows the realities you encounter when abroad.
Daria says
I think you said it all! In particular, always focus on the positive vibes from the place and people I think that’s the keys! I love this read! Stay happy and enjoy journey!
Ruth | Tanama Tales says
Oh thanks Daria! I will enjoy the journey for sure!
Bryna | Dotted Line Travels says
Great advice! It’s so important to respect the places we visit, as well as be aware of the rules but also to keep an open mind!
Ruth | Tanama Tales says
Right! Thanks for your opinion!
Rhonda Albom says
Your advice is spot on. You are in control of your travel (usually) and your experience can be great (or not) depending on your attitude and actions.
Ruth | Tanama Tales says
I have experienced so many not so good things while on my travels. However, I always try to focus on the positive: what I liked, who I met and what I ate. Anyway, the bad situation end up being good or funny stories.
Michele {Malaysian Meanders} says
Very wise advice. One of the lessons that I’ve had to learn when traveling with kids is not to let someone else’s bad mood bring me down. And that when in a group, recognize that everyone has different interests, and sometimes, you need to let someone else’s interests take priority.
Ruth | Tanama Tales says
Traveling with or in a group is a different animal. I am very particular with my travels, so, I prefer to do it with my husband who has interests similar to me. A lot of people have asked to travel with us but I try to have an honest talk about how the experience is going to be. I prefer no to loose a friend.
Edith & Juan says
This is a great read! We leave in October to start a year long trip and this is a great reminder to just go with the flow of the country and to let go of what may go wrong. 🙂 #weekendwanderlust
Ruth | Tanama Tales says
This sounds awesome! Where are you going? For how long?
Shona says
These are all great points. Respect is key, for the environment, the people, cultures, tradition and law. If we learn to say hello & thank you in the visiting country’s language, watch smiles appear and doors open. Great post, you nailed it!
Ruth | Tanama Tales says
Thanks Shona! Yes, small gestures can go a long way. And, I say that because I have experienced it. A lot of people love to have people from a another country in their country.
Stephanie (1AdventureTraveler) says
Great information where our travel experience is so much more enjoyable with the correct attitude. Tips to help achieve the correct attitude is very helpful. Thanks for sharing! #feetdotravel
Ruth | Tanama Tales says
Thanks for stopping by and commenting!
Travel Lexx says
Actually one of the best posts I’ve read recently. Everyone should read this before the travel – especially if they are not seasoned travellers. Your attitude makes or breaks ANYTHING – your work, relationships and, invariably, travel. When you are in a foreign country, it’s important to take stock of where you are and what the “story” of the place is. Having respect for people and their culture is absolutely vital and being open and friendly can lead to some amazing experiences abroad. Brilliant post!
Ruth | Tanama Tales says
Blown away by your comment! Thanks a lot! I can talk for ages about respect for others culture and “story.” Like it or not, who you are as a person has to do a lot with where you were raised. It is important to realize that before starting to judge.
Angie Vincent says
‘Do the things that move or touch you’ is such great advice and I agree will make a trip so much more enjoyable. I am about to take a trip and have that butterflies in the stomach excitement, I will certainly take some of these great tips with me. #FarawayFiles
Ruth says
Angie, I hope you have an excellent trip. Glad you are excited about. Sometimes we take things for granted and do not appreciate the opportunities that come along the way.
Rob+Ann @TravelLatte(.net) says
I’m always a little surprised when some says a place didn’t live up to their expectations. It always makes me wonder – if you’ve never been there, how did you know what to expect? I always try to travel with a sense of curiosity instead. What is the country like? What are their customs? What are the people like? What do they eat? (Okay, mostly that last one!) I mean, I do research (sometimes too much!) but I travel for that sense of discovery, and I’m rarely disappointed. (Rarely because I TRY not to have expectations…not always successful.) Great post, Ruth. Thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard and #WeekendWanderlust.
Ruth | Tanama Tales says
In this information age, it is difficult not to have expectations. However, I agree it is manageable to keep them low and realistic. Approaching places from a curiosity stand point works for me too.
David | Travelsewhere says
I’ve been thinking about this idea for a while now Ruth and you’ve really covered it well. I especially think being open-minded and adaptable is important given you’re somewhere else where things can work differently. Oh and being grateful for the opportunity is a must!
Ruth | Tanama Tales says
Thanks David! When I feel like complaining about something experienced, I try to think about how in the first place I had the opportunity to travel to one or another place. When I was on my teens, I never thought I was going to be able to travel and see the world. I will be grateful for that forever!
Clare (Suitcases and Sandcastles) says
Some really thoughtful and insightful points here, Ruth. It’s so true that you should remember what you’re interested and inspired by when you visit another country. You’ll have a much better experience if you follow your own path rather than just visit those things that you feel you ought to do. Thanks for sharing this on #FarawayFiles
Ruth | Tanama Tales says
Claire, I think you should go to places you wan to go. Do not follow the crowds. If you ideal spots are in your own country, well go there then.
Anna says
Lovely article Ruth! I agree with so many of these points, like understanding a culture’s customs, being grateful, and just do the things you like. There is absolutely no rule that you must go to a city and visit the most famous building or sights. If all you want to do is people watch in cafes, then do that! And yes, being appreciative is so important. Even if there are places I didn’t really like, I am always appreciative that I got to visit it, because I know so many other people can’t even if they want to. I think travel is a privilege and just being able to visit places around the world is so special. I don’t understand people who complain that it’s not like home either! I mean.. what do you expect… isn’t the reason why you travel is to experience other places and cultures?!
Ruth | Tanama Tales says
Right, if you want to sit in a cafe, go for a bike ride, take a cooking class, then do it. I do not like Anthony Bourdain a lot but I like when he goes to places and skip the most famous sights. The other thing is that certain sites are very expensive. You shouldn’t feel bad if you cannot go to all the “must places”. Sometimes, you have to choose according to your budget and that is ok.
Paul and Carole says
This is an excellent post. We have come across so many travellers that will never get the most out of their experience because of their attitude. Can not understand when people complain its not like home, if you want that then stay at home! Great read, thanks for sharing on #feetdotravel
Ruth | Tanama Tales says
Right, stay at home then. It will be easier for the rest of us!
Janine Good says
This is such a good reminder of travel behaviour. It really needs to be the case that a visitor to a country be sensible and abide by the rules and culture. I cannot get over some of the incidents I read about to get that optimal selfie or to push the envelope. Not worth it! pinned for later 🙂 Thanks for coming to Fly Away Friday! Hope to see you this week!
Kana says
Love love LOVE this post Ruth! People take things way too personally and make assumptions on a culture or a country from little things. I usually have a completely open mind and just be grateful to be able to visit and travel! Thanks for joining Fly Away Friday, hope to see you again this week! xo
Carolyn Eddie says
Great article. I am in fact a reluctant traveller. I love being at home but doing an expat stint in Copenhagen I promised myself I would take advantage of my location.
What I love are your photographs. They are phenomenal. Just getting into the whole photograph thing. Any recommendations. Apps to use for filters etc?