Do Your Part to Cultivate Goodwill Abroad
Understand the context. It makes an enormous difference if you arrive with a sense of the social, political, and environmental issues faced by the people you are visiting. English newspapers are your friend.
Learn to listen. The ability to listen is the essence of diplomacy. Travelers from the US in particular should be aware that many people believe that having the ear of an American is tantamount to having the ear of America. So listen well, with respect, to all points of view.
Learn to speak. Try not to express your viewpoint as if it were ultimate truth. Temper conversations with phrases like “I believe,” or “My view is,” rather than, “Everybody knows….”
Learn basic phrases. It’s astonishing how far a little language goes toward creating a feeling of goodwill. On those endless hours in airport waiting lounges, or aboard trains and boats, you’ll have many opportunities to learn “please,” “thank you,” and a few numbers.
Never give gifts to children. Respect parents / teachers by asking their permission before giving handouts, if you give any at all. Also find out what’s really needed, and who can best distribute these items.
Know the economic realities of your new currency. A few rupees, baht or pesos one way or another is not going to ruin you. Don’t get all bent out of shape over the fact that a visitor who earns 100 times a local’s salary might be expected to pay a few cents more for a ferry ride, a museum entrance, or an egg. When you bargain, bargain fairly, with respect for the seller.
Respect the traditions, know the taboos. Each culture has its own mores, and they’re often taken very seriously. Investigate the dos and don’ts before you go!
Cultivate a sense of humor. Anger is a real issue for Westerners. It’s perversely satisfying, but it never earns the respect of locals, or defuses a bad situation. Remember that “when you lose your sense of humor, it’s just not funny anymore.”
Ask for help. Rarely, in any country or situation, will another human being refuse a direct request for help. Being of service, and inviting others to reciprocate, is what the global community is all about.
Leave your preconceptions at home. The inhabitants of planet Earth will continually amaze you with their generosity, hospitality and wisdom. Be open to their friendship, and aware of our common humanity, delights, and hardships.
Never forget: “Peculiar travel suggestions are dancing lessons from God.” In other words: go with the flow, and give free rein to your sense of adventure!
Learn to listen. The ability to listen is the essence of diplomacy. Travelers from the US in particular should be aware that many people believe that having the ear of an American is tantamount to having the ear of America. So listen well, with respect, to all points of view.
Learn to speak. Try not to express your viewpoint as if it were ultimate truth. Temper conversations with phrases like “I believe,” or “My view is,” rather than, “Everybody knows….”
Learn basic phrases. It’s astonishing how far a little language goes toward creating a feeling of goodwill. On those endless hours in airport waiting lounges, or aboard trains and boats, you’ll have many opportunities to learn “please,” “thank you,” and a few numbers.
Never give gifts to children. Respect parents / teachers by asking their permission before giving handouts, if you give any at all. Also find out what’s really needed, and who can best distribute these items.
Know the economic realities of your new currency. A few rupees, baht or pesos one way or another is not going to ruin you. Don’t get all bent out of shape over the fact that a visitor who earns 100 times a local’s salary might be expected to pay a few cents more for a ferry ride, a museum entrance, or an egg. When you bargain, bargain fairly, with respect for the seller.
Respect the traditions, know the taboos. Each culture has its own mores, and they’re often taken very seriously. Investigate the dos and don’ts before you go!
Cultivate a sense of humor. Anger is a real issue for Westerners. It’s perversely satisfying, but it never earns the respect of locals, or defuses a bad situation. Remember that “when you lose your sense of humor, it’s just not funny anymore.”
Ask for help. Rarely, in any country or situation, will another human being refuse a direct request for help. Being of service, and inviting others to reciprocate, is what the global community is all about.
Leave your preconceptions at home. The inhabitants of planet Earth will continually amaze you with their generosity, hospitality and wisdom. Be open to their friendship, and aware of our common humanity, delights, and hardships.
Never forget: “Peculiar travel suggestions are dancing lessons from God.” In other words: go with the flow, and give free rein to your sense of adventure!
Material taken from “The Ethical Traveler”
