Friendly Reminder: Before you travel, be sure to learn the customs/culture!

Hello fellow International Travelers!

There's something that I've noticed in my travels across the United States, and aboard... that kind of troubles me.

Now, this is not directed to simply Americans, but to every International Traveler out there. Whether it's for Business or for pleasure. There is a sad amount of people out there that simply fail to, or refuse to learn the customs and cultures of the country they are traveling to.

Now, we are all familiar of the "Loud American." You know the one.... the group of people who are far to loud, obnoxious, and quite simply ignorant about the country they travel to. But believe it or not, it seems other nationals seem to do the same thing (albeit in maybe a different way).

EX: Working as a server in Newport Beach (part-time, paying for grad-school), there is a certain group of Rich-travelers from a certain nationality where 95% do not understand the American practices, tipping procedures, ect. Now, I understand it's because of ignorance, and not malice, but my coworkers do not seem to understand the other side of the story. It's sad, because it only promotes racism to some extent. The same could be said of Americans visiting their country of origin, and how our actions could promote racism in their eyes as well.

This is not to stereotype anyone, and this is not me calling out people on BS... it's simply a friendly reminder to people from all customs and cultures to try and blend in as much as possible... out of respect of the locals and your own National Pride.

What I think some fail to realize is that when you are traveling, you are representing your Nation in some form or another. With the world the way it is today, we really should trying to show everyone how awesome our country is. I don't think we would like any of the worst stereotypes of our nation to represent us when it comes to a "first impression."

So, learn the basic language! Know what to wear, when to wear it! Should you drink in public? Should you speak to strangers, or should you keep to yourself? Should you tip? If so, how much? The Internet is a valuable resource, plenty of travel blogs out there will lay out the basics of the country you wish to travel to. Not only will the locals appreciate it, but I think your Countrymen would as well!

I hope Reddit does not feel what I'm saying is out of line... though I'm afraid some may take it that way. Just a friendly PSA.

Thanks for listening!