- Transforming into an Enhanced Traveler: Guidelines and Tips
Vacationers have a knack for causing trouble when they're far from home. Researchers Ismail Shaheer and Neil Carr analyzed 2,088 Reddit comments to identify tourist behaviors that irritate locals the most. Among the top offenders are "disrespectful visitors" who show no regard for cultural sites like churches or mosques. For instance, some tourists think it's amusing to snap photos at Ground Zero in New York, a site that holds deep emotional significance due to the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
Similar to the "disrespectful visitors" are the "photo fanatics" who disregard safety guidelines, cause damage to the environment or cultural heritage, or act inappropriately. Taking selfies at the Holocaust Memorial in Berlin is just one example of this behavior. Locals also dislike it when tourists disregard warning signs and put themselves in harm's way.
"Noise makers" and "disturbers" are yet another group that locals despise. These tourists make a racket in parks or interrupt religious ceremonies by arriving late or leaving early. "Litterbugs" and "public urinators" are hardly popular either. After all, just because you're on vacation doesn't mean you can forget basic etiquette.
Becoming a respectful tourist
A bit of research can go a long way in preventing many faux pas. Justin Francis, co-founder of the travel platform "Responsible Travel," recommends using a guidebook to avoid crowded areas and find hidden gems.
Dr. Peter Robinson, director of the Center for Tourism and Hospitality Management at Leeds Beckett University, suggests learning the local language before traveling to show respect to the locals.
The best way to immerse yourself in local culture is through its food. Francis advises seeking out local restaurants, visiting markets, or even signing up for cooking classes.
Avoiding overtourism
Popular destinations tend to attract a lot of tourists, leading to overcrowding. cities like Barcelona are taking steps to combat this issue by phasing out vacation rentals by 2028. But it's not just popular destinations that can take action - tourists can also help.
Instead of always sticking to the well-trodden path, Francis suggests exploring lesser-known countries, cities, and attractions. Exploring your own country can also be a cost-effective and eco-friendly option.
The time of travel can also make a big difference. Those without school-aged children should avoid peak season. Peak hours and days at tourist attractions should also be considered to avoid hotspots and reduce stress for both tourists and locals.
Dr. Robinson also warns against "last-minute tourism," where people flock to see sights like coral reefs and glaciers due to climate change. However, these places are not equipped to handle such large numbers of visitors.
Even during travel itself, it's important to consider the environment. The CO2 emissions of the tourism industry account for 22% of all transport modes. The World Tourism Organization predicts a 45% increase in transport-related CO2 emissions in the tourism sector between 2016 and 2030. To reduce this impact, long-distance trains and buses are often a better alternative to airplanes or cruise ships.
Despite the advent of digital platforms like Reddit, it's important for travelers to use such resources responsibly. For instance, utilizing Reddit forums to get local tips and insights can be beneficial, but avoiding spreading misinformation or contributing to negative stereotypes is crucial.
Additionally, just as shown in studies analyzing Reddit comments, understanding and respecting the local culture is key to having a positive travel experience. This includes respecting historical and cultural sites, adhering to safety guidelines, and showing consideration for the environment.
