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Posted: 2022-10-28T09:45:07Z | Updated: 2022-11-18T22:54:40Z

The experience of COVID lockdowns and border closures over the past couple of years has given many Americans a newfound appreciation for the privilege of international travel. This summer, the tourism industry saw a huge rebound in the form of revenge travel to far-off places.

Unfortunately, Americans dont have the best reputation as tourists abroad. But that doesnt mean you have to add to the ugly American stereotype as you reenter the international travel game.

It is imperative to avoid an egocentric view of the world while traveling, travel blogger Rocky Trifari told HuffPost. You should always mind your manners abroad because etiquette can differ from one country to the next.

Though the intricacies and nuances of every culture may feel intimidating, there are some fundamental etiquette principles that can guide each trip. An easy way to approach etiquette abroad is to think about what not to do.

With that in mind, we asked etiquette experts and travel professionals to share some common rude behaviors theyve observed from tourists in foreign countries and lend their advice for avoiding these faux pas.

While specific etiquette rules may differ around the world, good manners is universal, said Nick Leighton, an etiquette expert and co-host of the Were You Raised by Wolves? podcast . Treating people with kindness and respect translates into every language.

Assuming Everyone Will Speak English

Do not presume that everyone you encounter will speak English, said Jodi R.R. Smith, president of Mannersmith Etiquette Consulting . Know a few phrases in the local language. Do not speak louder hoping that the other person will suddenly understand you.

Before your trip, try to learn a bit of the local language and customs to ensure a more pleasant experience.

Whether youre in a restaurant or shop, saying thank you and please in the local language can go a long way, said Jessica van Dop DeJesus, founder and editor at The Dining Traveler . I also love using Google Translate to communicate while traveling. Its a great tool to bridge communication in a foreign country. I recently traveled to Japan, and being able to write what I needed in Japanese at restaurants helped me get around much better.

Not Doing Your Research

Youll have a better time if you know what to expect, so best to brush up on the local etiquette rules before you set sail, Leighton said. These etiquette rules are definitely not a secret, and theres virtually no corner of the globe that hasnt been covered online somewhere. Just look it up!

You can avoid awkward or frustrating situations by just doing a little research before your trip.

Learning about a cultures etiquette is part of the fun of travel, and youll have a richer travel experience if you fully participate, Leighton added. A few fun international tips: Dont cheers with beer in Hungary, be sure to say bonjour when entering a shop in France and always hand out your business card with two hands in Japan.

Being Loud And Rowdy

One of the things I see a lot, especially living in Europe, is U.S. citizens speaking loudly on the phone, and the whole restaurant or bar can hear the conversation, van Dop DeJesus noted.

Avoid adding to negative stereotypes about Americans by taking phone calls outside or being mindful of your volume, especially while youre speaking English. Try to avoid making noise in other ways, like slamming car doors or stomping around.

Practice vocal level control, Abbott echoed. It doesnt matter your age, be it youth to well-seasoned, thou shalt not yell or be obnoxious in any way no matter how tired you are, no matter what everybody else is doing, no matter how much alcohol youve had.

She also urged against drinking too much alcohol in a foreign country.

This isnt just about turning into that proverbial ugly American but also about the increased risk of turning into just another visiting foreigner victim, Abbott said, noting that drunk tourists are often targets for petty crime. You would do well both in proper etiquette and keeping yourself out of bad situations to dial it back a bit on the alcohol if youre so inclined.