Do's and Don'ts We list below a few basic Do's and Don'ts to
help you along the way. It's all common sense and courtesy but you'd be amazed
at the amount of people that need reminding....
DO:
spend some time reading up and learning about the countries you plan
to visit - you will get a far better reception if you take an interest in the
people, respect their culture, learn their social etiquettes and at least the
basics of the local language. A simple "hello", "please" or "thank you" goes a
long way.
respect for local cultures, traditions and holy places and always
dress modestly.
burn all toilet paper, if using "bush toilets"
use
water sparingly - it is precious in many countries and the local people may not
have sufficient clean water
be
prepared for "tourist touts"—young men who hustle up business for safari
companies and other local businesses. They are usually very personable but very
persistent.
be
careful with your belongings particularly in crowded areas.
keep a watch out for fake police officers who want to see your ID; ask
for their ID; if you are unsure offer to walk with them to the police station,
never get into their car!
watch out for thieves among other travellers, they're often worse than
the locals are!
help the local economy of developing countries by buying local produce
in preference to imported goods.
help the small local subsidence farmer by purchasing from markets
street and road sides stalls where possible.
DON'T:
discard
litter randomly, dispose of it in a proper place. Waste disposal is a major
expense in poorer countries
become so
worried about crime that you forget to enjoy your holiday. It's easy to fall
into the habit of worrying so much that the real pleasures of the country and
its inhabitants pass you by.
be afraid
to ask about security when making hotel reservations and when checking into
your hotel.
display your
wealth, don't wear ANY jewellery to poorer countries or areas with a high crime
rate, wear a cheap watch.
walk around
waving a map around - if you get lost go into a shop and take the map out
inside.
be
surprised if water, electricity, internet, mobile connections and other
technologies are unavailable from time to time.
be surprised
if things don't happen as quickly or as efficiently as they do at
home.
ever take a
package, jacket, gift or whatever from somebody, and especially never transport
other people's belongings for them, even if they are very nice
