How To Be a Respectful Tourist

This one is simple: Take moments to look around. How do the locals behave? Whether it’s being quiet on public transport in Norway or slightly bowing in thanks in Vietnam, the idiosyncrasies of your destination will become obvious once you tune into them. If community-focused travel isn’t something you do naturally, grab a coffee or snack and sit in a bustling public space, or find a local bar or art gallery with the intention of people-watching. You’ll be amazed at how much you pick up.

It’s always a good idea to research travel etiquette guidelines before you visit. How do locals dress in public spaces? How do they approach strangers—or not? The obvious example here is religious sites—if you’re visiting a spiritual landmark like the Taj Mahal or Wat Pho, for example. This way, you’ll arrive wearing the appropriate clothing, knowing how to handle your camera, and carrying some spare change if a donation is requested. In some cases, you’ll also learn which entrances to use, when to bow or kneel, or which areas match your gender identity or age. Following ethical sightseeing practices will help you blend in and feel comfortable in your new surroundings, whatever they may be.

Related: Do's and Don'ts: Travel Etiquette Around the World

Whoever said “a little goes a long way” could’ve been talking about tourists learning the local language. A simple “please” and “thank you” in your destination’s mother tongue shows interest in and respect to the local culture, and it demonstrates that you’re putting in an effort—you’re not just here to take and enjoy. A simple “how are you?” will get you far with just about anyone.

Insider tip: Many popular tourist destinations, like Paris, offer quick language-learning classes to visitors. Book a class, and you’ll turn learning the local language into an immersive, on-the-ground experience.

Imagine strolling through a park in Bangkok, and the national anthem starts playing. Or maybe you’re in Jerusalem, and you see a group of men deep in prayer. Even though you’re not of the local country or religion, honor the moment and respect those who are participating. This goes back to the first point—note what the locals are doing, and either match them or give them space to do their thing. (Without staring or commenting, of course.)

Before you book that vacation resort, do a little research: Is it foreign-owned? In some places—like the Caribbean island of Dominica, say—you’d make a huge difference by staying somewhere local. Go beyond your lodging, too: Stop by that local museum, patronize that tiny bar or art gallery, buy a souvenir from a local craftsperson. And a worldwide travel rule when it comes to dining? There’s nothing better than a meal from a hole-in-the-wall, mom-and-pop restaurant.

As you’re climbing around Santorini to spot those blue domes, keep in mind: You’re wandering around actual houses and homes. And even though the streets of big cities like NYC or Ho Chi Minh City may seem like public domain, locals live there, too. Be discreet with your camera, and never gawk. You’d expect the same on your home turf.

And we’re not just talking about urban spaces. Even in wide-open nature like Yellowstone or on the beaches of Aruba, other hikers, beachcombers, and the like—never mind the local flora or fauna—deserve some breathing room. When possible, always give one thing to the locals: space.

The biggest tourist giveaway is the camera. Taking photos is fine on its own (that is, when it’s allowed), but when you’re obstructing others, especially pedestrians, blocking views with your selfie stick, or—gulp—using your flash, you’re negatively impacting those around you. That’s definitely something to avoid, at any destination. When you take photos, be aware, and make it quick.

What’s more, taking a quick photo isn’t just for others—it’ll keep you present, seeing the world not through a 2D lens, but through your own human eyes. And reality is always better than a photograph!

Eco-friendly travel is essential, whether you’re in nature or otherwise. Take Colorado: No one likes the tourist who leaves trash at the top of Pikes Peak or in the amphitheater rows at Red Rocks, or who private jets in and out of Rocky Mountain National Park. From picking up your garbage to staying on established trails to being aware of your carbon footprint, it’s important to consider how you impact the space you’re in. Heck, that can even mean being too loud on a hike—be careful not to disrupt those around you, even if it’s just a local moose trying to get in a nap.

Related: 7 Top Tips for Protecting Our Public Lands, According to a Park Ranger

It’s not just about leaving a place like you were never there; if you can, leave it better. This means picking up someone else’s trash, recycling even when it’s inconvenient, helping another tourist or local in need, or donating to a local charity or non-profit. This will also help you feel more connected to the place you’re visiting, making your trip full of those feel-good memories that you want to last. No matter what, that’s better than any souvenir.