How to Blend In Abroad as an American

Let’s face it: The rest of the world does not always have the best impression of Americans. American travelers, whether they are students abroad, business travelers or backpackers hiking the mountains, tend to get a bad rep. When traveling, the best thing you can do is immerse yourself within a culture, and you cannot do this as a spectator sport. Here are some tips on how to blend in with the locals so you can get the best possible experience.

Eat like a local. If you’re in Abu Dhabi, for example, and your first stop is at McDonald’s, you probably won’t get the full experience the United Arab Emirates has to offer. Try stuffed camel meat or luqeymat, a sweet honey treat, instead. This also contributes to the local economy of your destination, which is an important part of travel.

Speak more quietly than you usually might. In America (and especially the Northeast), we tend to talk rather loudly. In other countries, where a lower level of decibels is the norm, raising your voice will make you stick out like a sore thumb.

Keep local customs in mind when planning what you wear. This is tricky. In many parts of the world, American attire is considered quite revealing, particularly for women. In many Arab countries, wearing crop tops, short-shorts or strapless tops are seen as offensive and should be avoided.

Be polite. In many countries, Americans are stereotyped as being rude or thoughtless. In order to combat this, it is important to treat everyone you meet with respect. As important as this is in your daily life, it is even more important when you go abroad.

Whether you are in Sydney or Johannesburg, it is always important to be respectful of the local customs. This will allow you to have a great time and remove the giant blinking sign over your head screaming, “TOURIST.”