Tips for the International Traveler

Since Mom has gone into detail about our trip to Southeast Asia and there are plenty of pictures, many of which I have written captions for, I do not feel the need to write a blog for everyday that we have been out of the country. However, I do wish to blog about some things that I have learned or really been aware of along the trip. So, in this blog, you will find some tips, in no particular order, for anybody who plans to travel outside of the United States. Hope you enjoy.

1. Try not to be ethnocentric (Ethnocentric. Adj. characterized by or based on the attitude that one's own group is superior). You will learn a lot more and appreciate more when you have an open mind about the culture that you are visiting.

2. Research about where you are traveling. Know some basic information about the country you are visiting, for example, the type of currency, the type of government, the exchange rate, and special/interesting places to visit. If for some reason you do not have access to an Atlas or the Internet (which I doubt since you are reading this blog), ask someone. The more you know, the more you will appreciate some of the other information that you find along your vacation.

3. Be respectful. This goes back to doing a little research. For example, it is very acceptable and polite to shake the hand of a Filipino; however, it is uncomfortable for a Thai person to touch another person, especially foreigners. Simple things, such as a hand gesture or taking pictures of certain objects, may be offensive in a certain culture. Be sure to ask or find out what are the most common differences between the US and the country you are visiting.

4. If traveling to Southeast Asia, DO NOT rent a car. The traffic rules are very different. In fact, they are more like guidelines. Note: (specifically for Jesse K.) Asians drive extremely well. It is the Americans who have road rage, get in everyone’s way, and do not drive well.

5. If dealing with a foreign currency, bring a small calculator. It will help you with figuring out how much things are in US dollars.

6. Find out if bartering is acceptable in various places.

7. Either travel with a person who speaks the native language or get an English speaking tour guide. Often times it is easier to shop or order food outside of the hotel. You can also learn a lot more about the culture and the history of the country that you are visiting. Having a tour guide will also give you access to various venues/programs that are cheaper than those offered at the hotel.

8. Bring a journal. Jot down different facts about something you’ve learned. Write down locations that you wish you could have spent more time at. Write down various things you wished you would have purchased. Write down the places that you want to visit. Write down the dishes you liked. Write down anything you want. You never know when you are going to travel back to that country or what you will be asked when you get home.

9. Do not expect everyone to speak English. Speak clearly, not louder (just because they can’t understand you doesn’t mean they’re deaf), when speaking to someone who only has a limited knowledge of English. Note: A big smile often means that the individual has no idea what you are saying. ;)

10. Try different foods. In Bangkok, we saw many types of fruit that were very ugly fruit on the outside; however, they were very sweet on the inside. You never know what might taste good.

11. Also in regards to food, do not assume that you know what every dish tastes like. A picture of udon noodles in Bangkok may not have the same flavor as rice noodles in Manila.

12. Note: Just because a dish does not taste like it does in the US doesn’t mean that the dish is cooked wrong. In fact, what you have had before have probably been “Americanized”, even if it is cooked by someone from that country. (Example. All Chinese food restaurants in the US, even if prepared by a Chinese cook, have been modified to fit the American taste buds.)

13. Bring toilet paper. Not all bathrooms will have toilet paper, even in the malls and airports. Also in regards to bathrooms, bring a small bottle of hand sanitizer. Just think…if the water is not safe to drink and you wash your hands in that water and then eat, then what was the point?

14. Bring earplugs. This sounds like a really crazy idea, but when you don’t bring them, you will find yourself next to a screaming 5 month old because it is tired and hot and hungry, and you are tired and hot and hungry too and all you want to do is sleep, but you can’t thanks to the screaming baby. Trust me. It’s nice to have them handy just in case.

15. Be brave. Leave the hotel. Don’t spend time hanging out at the hotel pool if you are in the middle of the city. There are plenty of things to see outside the hotel.

16. If it is safe, go to the market. You can find many things at very cheap prices. You will also be able to find very unique items that make great souvenirs.

17. Do not talk American politics. Even though in the United State an Obama supporter can sit next to a McCain supporter in peace, it may not be that way in other countries. Be careful and respectful of what you say about American politics.

18. If you find a unique piece of clothing or different smelling perfume, buy it. It may be in style 6 months to a year later in the States. This is your time to be fashionable for much cheaper than you would find back at home.

19. Appreciate the things back home more. We take so much for granted. Take an opportunity to reflect on what we take for granted back home. It will make your vacation more regarding.

20. Be a tourist. Take pictures. Ask questions. Try new things. 9 times out of 10, the locals will know that you are visitor whether you act like it or not. Might as well get as much out of the experience as you can.

21. Lastly, have fun!

Well. That’s 21 tips from the 21-year-old. I have had a lot of fun traveling and it has truly been a blessed experience. I cannot wait to come back to the Philippines. I will probably write more about various aspect of my trip when I get back home. Have a wonderful week!!! ;)

Much love,

Jillian