*
Respect the local traditions and manners. Remember that you are the visitor in their country.
*
Be grateful and polite. Even one person can really make a difference!
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Get lost. When you arrive in a new place walk or rent a bicycle and explore. You’ll see so much more than just sitting in the backseat of a taxi.
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Avoid mass-tourism places. The money is already there. Instead support local entrepreneurs somewhere quiet and see the real side of the country.
*
Try local foods. Seriously. Cow’s brain might sound a bit harsh first, but it's actually good.
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Learn some basics about the history, culture, language, who's running the country etc. You don't want to be that stupid tourist who doesn't know anything about the country you're visiting...
* And then again,
know your own country. I got very often in a situation where I have to tell where's Finland and how is it there. It's a bit weird if you can't answer simple questions about your own country.
*
Don't litter! Probably the most stupid thing you can do.
*
Travel by land if possible. You’ll see more and it’s more ecological.
*
Be careful, but don't stress too much.
*
Don't plan too much.*
Understand different religions.
*It doesn’t mean that if a place is on a Lonely Planet it’s good.
Use guidebooks for help but don’t trust ’em blindly.*
Don’t pack too much stuff. You don't want to bring your whole boring life with you...
*
People are generally good and there’s always people who’ll help you.
*
Don’t be afraid.*
Never underestimate people. I had a 45 minutes chat with Malaysian taxidriver about the global recession, what's Asia's part in it and why Sweden handle it so well...
*
Be social. You’ll end up having tons of new friends.
*If you want to
get wasted, why not doing it in a good and trustworthy company?
*And seriously,
what's the rush? Usually you find the best places and best things when you settle down and don’t just run from one place to another.
Did you read the
20 Things I Have Learned So Far in Kuala Lumpur?