True Traveler or Tacky Tourist?
Globetrotting Travel Tips

By Kathleen Cullinan, staff writer

A "tacky tourist" is an insensitive traveler who roams around places being obnoxiously clueless about the culture she's visiting. Acting like no one else is just as cool, or that other cultures are weird, is just messed up. Take a few tips for the road and you'll be seen as a "true traveler."

Word Power

We talk fast and use a lot of slang. Being understood might simply be a matter of slowing down and pulling out the phrase book. Take the time to learn a few words in another language like: please, thank you, excuse me, hello and goodbye. Most people appreciate your effort.

Crank Down the Volume

Everyone likes to have a good time, but if we keep our raucous laughter to the public squares and sidewalks, we're less likely to get glare stare from the mellower locals.

What to Wear

If you want to know a country's culture, you'll need to respect its dress codes and modesty norms. So check out its tourism Web sites. Muslim countries often consider shorts underwear, and short-shorts or skirts are never a good idea for hassle-free traveling.

Street Wear: You might feel more comfortable with a T-shirt and jeans. Black pants travel well and can be dressed up for a night out.

House of Worship Wear: You might find yourself checking out some artwork or cool architecture at a church, synagogue, temple or mosque; some of these places are strict about shorts, bare shoulders and bellies. Some places even require women to wear dresses or skirts. Check out the dress code before you go.

Let Go of the Grump

When you're on the road and away from your favorite food, friends, music and shows, it's easy to get off beat and just plain nasty. When that happens, remind yourself: This is your time, how do you want to spend it? Complaining about the weirdness of the place, people and things around you, or soaking them all in and taking back the best memories in photos, journals and stories?

Can't Beat Sleep

Face it, we need it. You made some new travel buddies and you're gonna chat until daybreak. It's all right for one or two nights, especially before the long flight home—who wants to be awake for that? But you'll want to keep a few hours for primetime shut-eye as there's still plenty to see and do tomorrow.

Photo Op

We're a photo-happy people and there are plenty of shots you'll want, but there are a few places and people that would rather you didn't click your camera. Most places will have signs, but people are harder to read. Ask if it's all right before you click.

Map it

Know where you're going and how to say it in the local lingo. Pointing at a map or a brochure will do in a pinch, but the ape-like antics are so passé (that's French for old!).

Follow these tips and you'll be a "true traveler."